China has announced new controls on the export of rare-earth technologies and associated items, adding to regulations on a critical industry that has been a key source of tension between Beijing and Washington.

China is the world's leading producer of the minerals used to make magnets crucial to the auto, electronics and defence industries.

It has required licences for certain exports of the materials since April, hitting global manufacturing sectors.

Rare earths have been a sticking point in recent trade negotiations between Beijing and Washington, with the US accusing China of slow-walking export licence approvals.

China, Australia and the rare earths industry Photo shows A large rock sits upon a monument with wind turbines in the background.

Rare earths are critical for manufact

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