TDK Hit by Chinese Rare Earths Export Curbs, Seeks Alternatives

TDK Corp. said tighter Chinese export controls on rare earths are creating a challenging environment for materials procurement, underscoring growing supply-chain risks for Japanese manufacturers dependent on critical minerals.

The Tokyo-based company, which makes neodymium magnets, has been affected by the restrictions since last year and is “closely monitoring” progress of export approvals from China, Chief Financial Officer Tetsuji Yamanishi said during an earnings call on Monday. The executive didn’t elaborate on the pace of Chinese export approvals and shipments.