China curbs tungsten and tunnelling machine exports

· Trade · China

China's curbs on tungsten, a metal used in drill bits, are squeezing the AI supply chain, according to a report, as export controls ripple through industries that depend on the material. Separately, Beijing will restrict the export of tunnel boring machines and other advanced construction equipment from Nov 18. The measures add to China's growing use of export controls on critical materials and machinery, a tool it has wielded amid trade tensions with the US and which can disrupt infrastructure and manufacturing supply chains worldwide.

Why it matters：Export controls on niche materials and machinery give Beijing leverage in trade disputes and can raise costs across global industry.

Key points

  • Tungsten used in drill bits is now subject to Chinese curbs.
  • Tunnel boring machine exports are restricted from Nov 18.
  • The measures add to China's use of export controls.

Sources (original reporting)

More stories from this day