BEIJING — China’s duty and quota requirements on the export of 11 raw materials conform to WTO rules, the Ministry of Commerce (MOC) said in a statement on July 19.

The export controls on graphite, cobalt, copper, lead, chromium, magnesium, talcum, tantalum, tin, antimony and indium are imposed to protect resources and the environment, said the statement.

The European Union accused China of violating WTO rules and has launched a legal challenge.

The MOC said China will properly handle the case in accordance with WTO dispute settlement procedures.