China’s rare-earths exports decline for two months

China's exports of rare earths fell 18.2% in May from the same period last year, marking the second month of decline for the world’s largest producer of the materials, reported Caixin. The country exported 3,639.5 tons of rare earths in May, down from 4,447 tons a year ago and a 16% decrease from April, according to data released Monday by the General Administration of Customs. China’s rare-earth exports showed slowing growth and domestic output declined in 2018 amid a crackdown on illegal mining. Rare earth elements are used in making high-tech products including computer chips, mobile phones, and rechargeable batteries.