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China Exports of EV battery graphite plunge due to new controls by Beijing

January 25, 2024

China, a major exporter of natural graphite, experienced a significant drop in exports in December following the imposition of new controls by Beijing.

Natural graphite is a crucial material used in the production of electric vehicle batteries. The new regulations have further tightened China’s control over the supply of minerals essential for advanced manufacturing.

According to Chinese customs data, overseas sales of natural graphite fell by 91% month-on-month to 3,973 tons. This sharp decline followed a surge in purchases ahead of the deadline, which saw exports rise to over 45,000 tons in November. Prior to these changes, exports had averaged around 17,000 tons per month throughout the year until October.