US bans Chinese rare‑earth magnets

The new regulation, effective immediately, bars the purchase of neodymium‑iron‑boron magnets from Chinese manufacturers for any defense‑related program.

Officials say the move protects against potential sabotage and export‑control violations.

China has responded by calling the rule “unfair trade protectionism.” The ban may push U.S. firms to source from allied nations such as Japan and Australia.