Yttrium Prices Surge 14000% After China Imposes Export Licenses in Retaliation for Trump Tariffs
Prices for yttrium, terbium and dysprosium have climbed sharply since China introduced licensing rules on seven rare earth elements on April 4, 2025. Exports of the three metals have fallen between 50% and 60%.
thehindubusinessline.comYttrium has risen 14000% since April 2025 and now trades at about $1100 per kilogram. Terbium has increased 350% to roughly $4500 per kilogram over the same period. Dysprosium has climbed 450% to approximately $1450 per kilogram.
The price increases followed China’s decision on April 4, 2025 to require export licenses for seven rare earth elements, including yttrium, terbium and dysprosium. The licensing rules were imposed in response to tariff increases ordered by President Trump. Exports of yttrium have fallen 50% since the controls began, compared with the twelve months before April 2025.
Exports of dysprosium have dropped 60% and exports of terbium have dropped 50% over the same comparison period. Yttrium is used in defense, aerospace and chipmaking. Terbium is used in permanent magnets for electric vehicles and wind turbines.
Dysprosium is used to strengthen magnets in electric motors and defense systems. @KobeissiLetter reported that China’s export controls are holding back some key rare earths and that the surge in prices for yttrium, terbium and dysprosium has been fueled by the April 4, 2025 licensing requirements.
