China has introduced new restrictions on the export of battery cathode material preparation technologies, including those related to lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and lithium manganese iron phosphate (LMFP), citing growing applications in sensitive sectors and the need to align development with national security objectives.
The updated regulations, announced Tuesday by the Ministry of Commerce, were added to the country’s Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted from Export from China and took immediate effect. Exporters must now obtain official licences before transferring such technologies abroad.
“Battery cathode material preparation technology is increasingly being used in sensitive fields,” a spokesperson for the Ministry of Commerce said. “Including relevant technologies in the restricted category of the catalogue will help better coordinate development and safety and promote the safe and sustainable application and development of relevant technologies.”
The move comes as China continues to assert its dominance in LFP battery technology, a key component in electric vehicles and energy storage systems. While Western automakers have historically favoured nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) batteries for their higher energy density, LFP cells—widely produced and advanced in China—are gaining traction in global markets due to their cost advantages and improved fast-charging capabilities.
The revised catalogue also expands restrictions on non-ferrous metallurgy technologies, including processes used to extract lithium from spodumene, brine, and purification liquids. Control measures have also been updated for metal lithium, lithium alloy preparation, and gallium extraction.
Although the export of LFP and LMFP technologies is not prohibited outright, they are now classified as restricted and subject to case-by-case review. “The Ministry of Commerce will further optimise management measures, improve export licensing and contract registration procedures, provide more public service products, and guide enterprises to do a good job in compliance,” the spokesperson added.
Analysts note that even when licensing frameworks are in place, past experience with rare earth export controls has shown that delays or revocations can occur. These uncertainties could complicate international supply chains, especially as global automakers increasingly turn to Chinese firms for battery components and raw materials.
While the government has not elaborated on specific security concerns tied to LFP technology, the update reflects China’s broader strategy to maintain leadership in critical green technologies while safeguarding national interests.
