In recent days, the magnet market has been experiencing new delays in shipments from China.
In many cases, these are not production-related issues: the goods are ready, but export procedures are taking longer due to more thorough checks by the Chinese authorities.
This is a situation that ODB is experiencing directly with its own supplies and which may also affect delivery dates that have already been planned.
Stricter Export Controls
The current situation is linked to the measures introduced by China since 2025 concerning certain rare earth elements and products containing them.
These include elements such as dysprosium and terbium, which are used in certain types of neodymium magnets, particularly where high performance at elevated temperatures or greater resistance to demagnetization is required.
For some products, a specific export licence is therefore required.
However, there is an important aspect to consider: even magnets that do not require an export licence may be subject to additional checks.
The authorities may verify documentation, classification and material composition before authorizing the shipment.
As a result, a shipment that is normally ready for export may be temporarily held until the necessary checks have been completed.
This Is Not an Export Ban
It is important to clarify that there is no general export ban on magnets from China.
Exports are continuing, but delivery times may now be less predictable than in the past.
In addition to normal production and transportation times, documentary and customs checks may add delays that are difficult to estimate in advance.
For companies using magnets as components in their production processes, even a delay of a few days can become significant, particularly when it concerns a critical item.
Planning Becomes Even More Important
In this scenario, it is essential to plan future requirements further in advance.
Sharing forecasts and expected consumption, planning scheduled deliveries and maintaining safety stock for the most critical items can help reduce the risk of logistical delays affecting production.
How ODB Is Managing the Situation
ODB is continuously monitoring shipments in progress and maintaining direct contact with suppliers and logistics partners.
In the event of delays affecting already scheduled deliveries, we inform the customers concerned directly, sharing the latest available updates and assessing possible alternatives wherever possible.
The situation remains constantly evolving, and we will continue to monitor it closely.
For information on availability, upcoming requirements or possible stock solutions, the ODB team remains at your disposal.