The United States launched an investigation into the import of neodymium iron boron, aiming at China's rare earth permanent magnet

The Bureau of industry and security (BIS) of the U.S. Department of Commerce issued an announcement on Friday (September 24) that it has launched an investigation into the import of neodymium iron boron permanent magnets (commonly known as rare earth permanent magnets) in accordance with the amendment to Article 232 of the trade expansion act of 1962 to investigate the impact of the import of neodymium iron boron on U.S. national security.

BIS invites all sectors of society to submit written comments, data, analysis or other information before November 12, 2021.

The announcement said that this is the first 232 clause investigation launched by the Biden administration since taking office. It is a response to the White House's 100 day supply chain review request. The White House asked the Department of Commerce to evaluate whether to launch the investigation.

The announcement said: the key national security systems of the United States depend on Nd-Fe-B permanent magnets, including fighter and missile guidance systems. In addition, NdFeB permanent magnet is an important part of key infrastructure, including electric vehicles and wind turbines. These magnets are also used in computer hard disks, audio equipment and nuclear magnetic resonance equipment.

If Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo finds that the quantity or condition of NdFeB permanent magnets imported from the United States may damage the national security of the United States, the Secretary of Commerce shall inform the president of the investigation results in the report.

According to the law, the Secretary of Commerce will spend 270 days to conduct the investigation until June 18, 2022, and then submit the Article 232 investigation results and recommendations to the president.