What Types of Magnets Can Be Exported Normally?

Did you know that more than 85% of the world's rare earth magnets are produced in China? As global regulations evolve, especially after China's 2025 export control update, importers are asking a crucial question: What types of magnets can be exported normally?

In this guide, I'll break everything down clearly and simply for you. From ferrite to NdFeB to SmCo, we'll uncover which magnet types are fully exportable, which require licenses, and how you can ensure compliance without delays. Whether you are sourcing magnets for motors, electronics, medical devices, or consumer goods, this guide will help you stay compliant and confident!

Overview of China's 2025 Magnet Export Regulations

As you navigate China's updated export controls, it's essential to understand why these rules were introduced and which materials fall under stricter supervision.

Why the New Export Rules Were Introduced

China implemented the 2025 regulations to strengthen geopolitical and supply-chain security, especially for strategic materials like rare earths. The government aims to better control dual-use materials, those that can be used in both civilian and military applications, to prevent misuse and ensure responsible global distribution. For you as a buyer, these changes mean certain magnet types may now require additional documentation, approvals, or longer lead times.

What Materials Are Restricted Under the 2025 Rules

The new rules restrict magnets containing heavy rare earth elements, including Dy, Tb, Sm, Gd, Lu, Sc, and Y. Permanent magnets using any of these elements fall under controlled categories. To stay compliant, you must pay close attention to HS codes, material composition reports, and accurate product classification before importing.

Magnet Types That Can Be Exported Normally

When sourcing magnets from China, you'll be relieved to know that many mainstream magnet types are fully exportable without any special licenses. As long as they do not contain controlled heavy rare earth elements, you can import them smoothly and without delays.

Ferrite Magnets 

Ferrite magnets are made from iron oxide and contain no rare earth materials, which means they are 100% exportable without restrictions. You can use them confidently in speakers, motors, sensors, and other general-purpose applications.

AlNiCo Magnets

AlNiCo magnets are produced from an alloy of aluminum, nickel, and cobalt. Since they contain zero heavy rare earth elements, they are ideal if you need high-temperature performance or precision instrumentation magnets without compliance concerns.

Rubber Magnets & Flexible Magnets

Rubber magnets are made from bonded ferrite materials, making them safe and fully compliant for export to all global markets. They're perfect when you need flexible, lightweight magnetic solutions.

NdFeB Magnets Without Heavy Rare Earth Elements

Standard NdFeB magnets without Dy or Tb additives can be exported freely. Just make sure your supplier provides a chemical composition report. These magnets are commonly used in home appliances, toys, and general electronics.

Magnets with Verified Civilian Use

If your application is clearly civilian TV motors, audio devices, or consumer electronics, you can export these magnets normally. Providing an end-use statement ensures smooth customs clearance.

Magnets That Require Export Licenses

If you plan to import magnets containing heavy rare earth elements, you should be aware that these products fall under China's 2025 export control rules. This means you must prepare additional documentation and expect a longer approval timeline before shipment.

NdFeB Magnets Containing Dy or Tb

When NdFeB magnets include dysprosium or terbium elements added to improve high-temperature resistance, they become controlled materials. Because of their strategic value, you must obtain an export license before these magnets can be shipped.

SmCo Magnets

SmCo magnets contain samarium, another controlled rare-earth element. As a result, they fall under dual-use regulations. You'll need a valid dual-use export license, and approval typically adds extra lead time.

Magnet Assemblies with Restricted Elements

If your magnet assemblies include any amount of restricted rare earths, they may still trigger licensing requirements. Accurate chemical composition testing is essential to determine whether your products qualify for export without restrictions.

Magnets That Are Likely to Be Delayed or Stopped at Customs

To avoid costly delays, you need to understand which magnet types are most commonly held by customs under the 2025 export regulations.

Magnets With Unclear End-Use Information

If you cannot provide clear end-use documentation, customs will immediately flag your shipment for further review. Missing paperwork is one of the fastest ways to trigger delays.

Magnets With High Heavy Rare-Earth Concentration

Magnets containing high levels of Dy, Tb, Sm, or other controlled elements are considered high-risk and may undergo stricter inspection.

Products Without Proper HS Code Classification

Incorrect or incomplete HS codes often cause customs detention. Always ensure accurate classification to keep your shipment moving smoothly.

What Importers Need to Prepare for Smooth Magnet Importing

To avoid customs delays and ensure a smooth importing process, you should have several key documents ready before shipment.

Chemical Composition Reports

Always request a chemical composition report from your supplier. This verifies the rare earth levels in your magnets and confirms whether they fall under controlled categories. Reviewing this report early ensures full compliance before shipping.

End User Statements

For sensitive or borderline products, an End User Statement is mandatory. Using a clear EUS template helps you speed up customs clearance and avoid unnecessary questions from officials.

Purchase Contract & Product Description

Make sure your documents clearly label the product as civilian use. Detailed descriptions and accurate classification reduce the risk of misinterpretation and prevent customs detention.

How to Choose the Right Magnet Supplier for Compliant Export

Selecting the right supplier is essential if you want to avoid customs delays and ensure full compliance with China's 2025 export rules. A reliable partner like GME Magnet can help you navigate requirements smoothly and protect your supply chain.

Check Testing Capability

Your supplier should be able to provide ICP testing, detailed chemical composition analysis, and RoHS reports. These tests verify whether any restricted rare earth elements are present and help you avoid misclassified materials, which commonly lead to detention at customs.

Evaluate Experience With Export Compliance

Choose a supplier who truly understands export control regulations. A knowledgeable supplier reduces clearance risks and guides you in preparing the necessary documentation, especially for borderline products.

Request Documentation Before Ordering

Always request reports and certifications before placing an order. Pre-checking the materials ensures they meet your import requirements and prevents surprises during shipment. A professional supplier like GME Magnet will provide accurate data and full transparency.

Conclusion

Understanding what types of magnets can be exported normally in 2025 is essential for any importer working with NdFeB, ferrite, or specialty magnets. In summary, ferrite, AlNiCo, rubber magnets, and non-heavy-rare-earth NdFeB remain fully exportable, while SmCo and Dy/Tb-added NdFeB require export licenses.

If you want to ensure smooth, compliant importing, always request chemical reports, end-use statements, and HS code confirmation before shipping. Staying prepared is the key to avoiding customs delays and ensuring a stable supply chain!