Chinese Ministry of State Security Reveals Attempts to Steal Rare Metals and Warns of Threats to National Security

The Chinese Ministry of State Security revealed today, Friday, July 18, attempts by foreign intelligence agencies to "steal" rare metals from the country, warning that such activities pose a threat to national security.

A statement published by the ministry on the "WeChat" platform stated: "Foreign agents collaborated with domestic lawbreakers to steal materials related to rare metals," without disclosing the identities of the countries involved.

The statement indicated that one country attempted to circumvent Chinese restrictions on metal exports by falsifying shipping data and redirecting goods to third countries before reaching their final destination. The ministry pledged to "take strict measures against infiltration and espionage activities targeting the strategic metals sector."

In a related context, an exclusive report by Reuters this month revealed the shipment of unusual quantities of antimony _ used in battery and electronic chip manufacturing _ to the United States via Thailand and Mexico, following China's ban on direct exports of this metal to the American market.

Last April, China listed a number of rare metals and related magnets on its restricted export list in response to U.S. tariffs. These measures have caused disruptions in global supply chains, especially in the electric vehicle, robotics, and defense sectors, leading some non-Chinese car companies to partially halt production due to raw material shortages.

Nevertheless, official data showed a 32% increase in China's exports of rare metals in June compared to the previous month, indicating that agreements reached between Washington and Beijing to ensure the flow of these materials are beginning to yield positive results.