China tightens grip on EV battery tech exports

China has imposed new export restrictions on critical electric vehicle battery technologies, aiming to protect its dominance in the global EV race.

Several technologies related to processing lithium, a key battery mineral, and battery cathode production now require Chinese government approval before being shared abroad.

The move could disrupt overseas expansion plans of Chinese EV firms and complicate global supply chains.

China already controls 94% of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery production and 70% of the refined lithium supply. The LFP batteries are increasingly common in EVs.

Analysts say the new controls focus on upstream processes, which may delay international operations but not halt them.

Chinese giants like CATL, BYD, and Gotion have global factories but mostly focus on battery assembly rather than restricted tech processes.