China’s exports of rare-earth products experienced a decrease in December compared to the previous month, according to customs data released on Sunday. The total volume of outbound flows for these materials, crucial in various high-tech sectors, amounted to 6,745 tons, a reduction from the 6,958 tons recorded in November. These materials are used in the manufacturing of electric vehicles, weapons systems, and other high-tech applications. The rare-earth category is largely dominated by rare-earth magnets, a product that has provided China with critical leverage in a series of trade disputes that have shaken markets. ... (full story)