US restrictions put China’s battery recyclers in a bind
AgenciesWith Washington moving to ensure that tungsten scrap and lithium-ion battery “black mass” stay in the United States, analysts warn that the new restrictions will deprive Ch...
The United States has imposed restrictions on the export of tungsten scrap and lithium-ion battery "black mass" to ensure these materials remain within American borders. This move has left Chinese battery recyclers in a difficult position, as they face a potential shortage of lower-cost feedstock. Beijing may respond by accelerating domestic recycling and leveraging its own export controls on rare earths and magnets.
The administration of US President Donald Trump recently banned exports of tungsten scrap and battery black mass, mandating that all monthly output be offered to US buyers. China, in response, has widened access to overseas recycling feedstock, allowing imports of compliant battery black mass and reducing tariffs. However, the one-year timeline for implementing these restrictions may not be sufficient for the US to secure its supplies, as it lacks the capacity to process tungsten scrap and black mass.
The restrictions could reshape global black-mass supply chains, impacting Chinese battery recyclers and creating opportunities for domestic companies with advanced processing capabilities.
Written by urgent.news from Qatar Tribune Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
