New Delhi, Jan. 6 -- Echoing its earlier clampdown on critical rare earth minerals, China has imposed strict silver export controls, effective 1 January 2026, mandating government approval for an estimated 60-70% of refined silver traded globally.

The new regulations, also covering tungsten and antimony, have triggered concern across industries where silver has become indispensable, from artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure and electronics to solar power equipment, medical devices and defence systems.

China's dominance in the silver market does not stem from mining strength but from its overwhelming control over refining. According to the London Bullion Market Association's (LBMA) list of accredited refiners for global over-the-c...