October 10, 2025: China is slapping a fresh raft of export restrictions on technologies critical for manufacturing EV batteries in a move potentially set to further destabilize global markets.

Exports of items related to superhard materials, equipment and raw materials related to rare earths, five medium and heavy rare earth elements including holmium, lithium batteries, as well as synthetic graphite anode materials, will not be permitted from November 8 without approval, state news agency Xinhua announced October 9.

The restrictions, approved by the commerce ministry and customs chiefs, come just three months after Batteries International reported that China was increasing its stranglehold on raw materials for components regarded as the lifeblood of the EV supply chain.

Insight by Wood Mackenzie published last June revealed there had been a 51% drop in Chinese rare earth magnet exports in April 2025 compared to March, following the introduction of new export restrictions in April.

The incoming restrictions are seen as a fresh bid to remind international markets that China has no intention of relinquishing dominance in the global batteries market for EVs and ESS — despite attempts by the US, Europe and others to try and push back against the Asian battery tiger.

A report released last month by Deloitte — ‘European Battery Sovereignty, Towards Greater Competitiveness’ — warned the continent’s heavy reliance on Asian battery manufacturers posed growing risks to its automotive industry.

Earlier this year, the US turned its tariffs focus on foreign battery material producers following the launch of a critical minerals probe — as US president Donald Trump said the country was being exploited by overseas supply chain dominance from China and others.

However, China has remained undeterred. Analysis released in August said China was on course to open up a new route in the global race for EV market dominance — steering away from price wars to innovation.