Chinese exports of its precious rare earths have jumped in the first quarter, spurred by a global demand that was bolstered by falling market prices.

Official data released by the General Administration of Customs showed China shipped out a total of 4,316 tonnes of rare earths in the first quarter, up by 47.3 per cent from a year ago. However, value wise, the volume only represented a $91.9 million equivalent, down 71 per cent from a year ago.

Month-on-month, China's rare earth exports climbed 55 per cent to 1,718 metric tonnes in March from February.

Chen Zhanheng, deputy secretary-general of the China Rare Earths Industry Association, said the surge in the volume of rare earths exports was because overseas buyers had used up their reserves and went on a buying binge when prices declined in 2011.

Although it remains uncertain when a major rebound will occur for the sector, rare earths production will nonetheless continue, Mr Zhanheng said, as production continues to get regulated and prices continue to fall.

Chen Jiazuo, an analyst from the China Nonferrous Metals Information Network, noted current prices are actually still higher than the lowest point in the past 10 years.

Holding nearly one-third of the known global reserves, China supplies more than 95 per cent of the world's demand for rare earths, a collective name of 17 metals that are essential to manufacture a host of items, including iPods, iPads, low-emission cars and computers to missiles.

In 2012, China was only able to use half of its mandated export quota due to the price surge in 2011, which prompted buyers to suspend purchases.

China's value of exports in 2012 fell 66.1 per cent year-on-year to $906 million.