China keeps yttrium exports to Japan restricted in September
XLB•China exported 4 metric tons of yttrium oxide to Japan in September, the ninth consecutive month of minimal shipments. January-to-September shipments totaled 18 tons, 98% below the 888 tons exported in the same period a year earlier.
1. Yttrium shipments remain low
China exported 4 metric tons of yttrium oxide to Japan in September, continuing nine consecutive months of minimal shipments. Shipments totaled 18 tons in the first nine months of the year, down 98% from 888 tons in the year-earlier period.
2. Other rare earth trade
Shipments of dysprosium and terbium to Japan were also negligible in September. Exports of rare earth magnets largely held up, totaling about 1,564 tons from January to September, 4% below the same period a year earlier.
3. Export curbs and uses
China is the main source of yttrium, which is used in specialty alloys for engines and in coatings that shield against high temperatures. Beijing limited exports of yttrium and other rare earths in April 2025, then tightened curbs on shipments to Japan in January 2026 and again a month later.
