China Proposes Export Controls on 12 Solar Manufacturing Technologies

China is making it harder for other countries to reduce their dependence on its technology, according to a New York Times report published on November 2, 2026. The report, by David Pierson and Berry Wang, says the reliance extends beyond rare earths to solar, drone and drugmaking technology.

Rare earths are a group of metals used in many manufactured products, from electronics to aerospace parts. Reuters reported that China produces the vast majority of the world's rare earths. In October 2025, China expanded its rare earth export controls, which are government rules that limit or require approval for shipments abroad. The expansion added five new elements to the list and gave extra scrutiny to semiconductor users, according to Reuters.

The scale of that dependence has drawn outside estimates. The International Energy Agency said full implementation of China's rare earth export restrictions could put $6.5 trillion of downstream production outside China at risk, according to Reuters.

The newest step concerns solar energy. On October 18, 2026, China proposed export controls on 12 technologies used to make solar equipment. Reuters reported that China cited national security concerns in putting forward the proposal.

Taken together, the measures cover minerals, components and now the methods used to build finished equipment. The proposed solar controls remain a proposal, and the Times report describes their effect on countries seeking to build their own supply chains.