S. Korea to thoroughly respond to China's export controls on key rare earth elements

South Korea's industry ministry said Monday it will thoroughly respond to China's export controls on key rare earth elements to secure a stable supply.

Last week, Beijing said it will impose export controls on seven rare earth elements, including gadolinium and yttrium, in response to the United States' reciprocal tariff imposition.

The ministry said China has not levied bans on such elements but tightened controls on them.

It said the country has stable reserves of the elements but will work with the private sector not to suffer any supply shortage of the elements in the future. (Yonhap)