China to Restrict Silver Exports from January 2026

China’s Ministry of Commerce announced new export restrictions on silver effective January 1, 2026, requiring exporters to obtain special government licenses.

China’s export restrictions on silver aim to centralize control and maintain domestic supply, affecting global markets as licensing criteria favor large state-certified firms.

China’s Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) issued Announcement No. 68 on October 30, 2025. From January 2026, silver exporters must obtain government licenses with strict requirements, such as a minimum production of 80 tons.

This move involves the Ministry of Commerce, the body responsible for China’s trade policies. Affected stakeholders must navigate these new export controls and adapt to potentially tighter regulations and centralized oversight.

Industries relying on silver, especially those outside China, might face supply constraints. MOFCOM’s directive could prompt a reshuffle in global supply chains and drive price fluctuations in precious metals markets.

The policy may prompt a strategic reevaluation among Western industries dependent on silver. For instance, the classification of silver as a strategic mineral is highlighted in the USGS 2022 critical minerals list, heightening geopolitical tensions.

China’s history of imposing stringent export controls on materials like rare earth minerals underscores this strategic posture. Analysts forecast shifts in market strategies and silver demand due to these constraints.

The silver export restrictions might have implications beyond trade, potentially affecting related technological sectors. These shifts could influence market values and regulatory responses, marking a pivotal change in global silver supply dynamics.