Rare-Earth Materials Expected on Agenda of U.S.-China Trade Talks
Introduction
On the eve of pivotal trade negotiations with the United States, China has announced a sweeping crackdown on the smuggling of rare earths and other critical minerals, signaling its intent to tighten enforcement of export controls on strategic resources. This move, orchestrated by a coalition of powerful ministries-including commerce, public security, state security, and customs-was unveiled at a high-level meeting in Shenzhen, a major port and tech hub in southern China. The timing and scope of the crackdown underscore the central role that rare earths and other critical minerals now play in the escalating U.S.-China trade conflict, as both countries maneuver for leverage in industries vital to defense, technology, and clean energy.
