China's Ministry of Commerce has announced the introduction of new measures aimed at combating the smuggling of strategic minerals. These initiatives are designed to enhance agency coordination as part of a broader effort to safeguard national security.

A spokesperson from the Ministry of Commerce, He Yadong, outlined these measures during a press briefing. Key actions include the establishment of a joint enforcement coordination center focused on the export control of dual-use items, as well as the prompt publication of typical enforcement and judicial cases.

These efforts were highlighted in response to a recent meeting conducted by the Office of the National Export Control Coordination Mechanism and relevant authorities on July 19 in Nanning, located in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. The meeting aimed to further advance initiatives to counteract the illegal export of strategic minerals.

Moreover, the discussion at the meeting encompassed the need for issuing guidelines that promote compliant exports of strategic minerals. Companies involved in exports will be guided on conducting comprehensive due diligence to ensure that related minerals do not end up in military applications.

Prior to this, a significant on-site meeting was held on May 9 in Shenzhen, Guangdong province, focusing on the same issues. The July meeting served as a crucial point for reviewing progress and outlining steps for future action.

He emphasized that, within the last few months, various departments have adopted a coordinated approach, taking a zero-tolerance stance against the smuggling and illegal export of strategic minerals. Several illegal export cases have been investigated, resulting in the apprehension of multiple suspects.

The special operation has revealed attempts by some individuals to evade regulatory oversight, increasing the risk of illegal technology transfers. He characterized the situation as complex and urgent, necessitating continued determination to fortify the crackdown.

As part of the meeting's conclusions, there was a clear directive to sustain a rigorous approach towards enforcement and investigation. The aim is to resolutely combat the smuggling and illegal export of strategic minerals, preserving national security and protecting the country's interests.