China's shipments of seven restricted rare earths to Japan fell 88% in March and 82% in April, following tighter export rules introduced in January, Nikkei Asia reported on Monday.
Key elements like dysprosium and terbium have seen zero exports since January, while yttrium shipments dropped over 90% in the first four months of the year, the publication said.
China dominates global rare earth production and refining, accounting for 70% and 90% respectively, the news agency said.
In response, Japanese companies are turning to alternative sources such as Australia, where JX Advanced Metals (TYO:5016) has acquired a stake in mineral deposits, the report said.
The export curbs follow geopolitical tensions related to comments by Japan's prime minister regarding Taiwan, according to Nikkei.
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