What's Actually Changed
Under the updated controls, export requirements are driven by chemical composition and documentation. In many cases, shipments can export normally when third-party testing shows the combined Dy (dysprosium) + Tb (terbium) content is within the low threshold—while higher totals typically trigger a MOFCOM export license requirement.
Even when you believe your magnets don't contain any of the controlled elements, Customs inspections can still happen. A clear composition test report helps reduce the risk of delays and additional warehouse/hold fees.
Is This a Total Ban?
No. Exports are still happening—they just require a license now.
License per shipment
If your magnet chemistry triggers the control threshold, each shipment needs its own MOFCOM export license application. No blanket approvals.
End-use verification (license path)
Only required when a MOFCOM export license is needed. Expect end-use and end-user documentation, plus clear technical descriptions—vague wording is often rejected.
A clear chemistry threshold
If third-party testing shows the combined Dy + Tb content is ≤ 0.1%, shipments can usually export without a MOFCOM license (no end-use verification step). Above 0.1% total, a MOFCOM export license is typically required.
How to Comply: Step by Step
There are two practical paths: if third-party testing shows Dy+Tb ≤ 0.1%, you typically export without a MOFCOM license . If Dy+Tb is above 0.1%, the MOFCOM licensing process involves four main steps. We handle most of this for you, but here's what's involved:
Important: Steps 1–4 below apply only to the MOFCOM license path (typically when Dy+Tb is above 0.1%). If Dy+Tb ≤ 0.1%, you generally do not need end-use verification—keep a third-party composition report ready for Customs and proceed with normal shipping documents.
Step 1
End-Use Statement
MOFCOM license path only. A signed End-Use Certificate specifying exactly what the magnets are for (EV motors, medical equipment, etc.) and confirming they won't be used in military, nuclear, or aerospace applications. For certain countries, this needs embassy authentication or local notary.
Step 2
Technical Documentation
Chemical composition report (Dy%, Tb%), magnetic property test reports (BHmax, Hcj), product datasheets with HS codes, and photos of the actual application. We coordinate the testing and provide datasheets.
Even if you believe your magnets don't include any of the controlled elements, we still recommend a composition test report to reduce the risk of Customs holds. Typical reference options: Ningbo Customs testing ~RMB 2,000 with ~5–7 working days turnaround (expedited ~RMB 3,000, as fast as 3 working days); Guangzhou Customs testing ~RMB 3,000 with ~10 working days turnaround (no expedited option).
Step 3
Import Country Compliance
Some regions (EU, USA) require additional approvals on your end. If your country doesn't require an import license, a signed declaration on company letterhead is usually sufficient.
Step 4
Wait for Approval
MOFCOM reviews typically take 45 working days. No rush service available. Build a 60-day buffer into your production schedule and consider breaking large orders into smaller batches.
How Mainrich Handles This for You
Since the controls took effect in April 2025, we've processed MOFCOM licenses for every order that needed one — 100% approval rate, zero shipments held at Customs. We know what the reviewers look for because we've been filing these applications for close to a year now.
Pre-screening
We check your magnet specs against the dual-use control threshold and review your End-Use Statement for proper formatting before submission.
Full application service
We fill out and file the export license application, liaise with MOFCOM and Customs, and handle notarized translations.
Alternative formulations
Since the new controls, we've developed and shipped low-HREE magnet grades that meet thermal and coercivity requirements with reduced Dy/Tb content. In many cases these formulations fall below the dual-use threshold entirely, meaning no MOFCOM license is needed at all.
Status tracking
Log into our client portal to monitor license status. Email alerts at each milestone—submission, revision needed, approval.
Real Example: Zero-Delay Shipping Through Parallel Processing
CASE STUDY · EXPORT COMPLIANCE
The client
German Tier-1 automotive supplier making traction motors for a European EV brand. 48H-grade sintered NdFeB arc segments, 2.8% Dy content, quarterly order of 15,000 motor assemblies.
The problem
Their previous trading-company supplier finished production and then started the MOFCOM paperwork. The magnets sat in a bonded warehouse for 45+ working days while the license was processed. OEM penalty clauses were triggered.
Mainrich's Approach: Parallel Processing
MOFCOM licenses take ~45 working days. We run compliance in parallel with production.
Week 1
Order confirmed. Production starts. Export compliance team begins End-Use Certificate and lab testing.
Week 2
Documentation submitted to MOFCOM while sintering is underway.
Week 3–7
MOFCOM review runs concurrently with grinding, coating, QC.
Week 8–9
License approved. Goods packed. Ships on schedule.
The client switched to Mainrich and has had zero shipment delays since. Every order ships on schedule because the license is ready when the goods are. Read the full case study →
FAQ
Can the process be expedited?
No. MOFCOM doesn't offer rush services. The only way to speed things up is to submit complete, error-free documentation the first time. That's where we help.
Which industries will feel this first?
Automotive and robotics. EVs use 1–2kg of HREE-doped magnets each, industrial robots use 300–500g per servo motor. Shortages likely within 90 days for companies that aren't prepared.
Can you prepare all the application documents for us?
Yes. We handle everything from formatting to translation to submission. You provide the end-use information and sign off on the certificate. We do the rest.
What if my magnets have too much Dy/Tb?
We've already developed several low-HREE grades specifically for this situation. They meet the same thermal and coercivity specs but use less Dy/Tb — in many cases enough to fall below the dual-use threshold. We've been shipping these grades since mid-2025.
This article provides general information about China's export control regulations as of February 2026. Regulations may change. Contact us for the latest requirements specific to your shipment.
Need Help with Export Licensing?
Tell us your magnet specs and destination. We'll confirm whether a license is needed and walk you through the fastest path to approval.