Rare earth metals

China places 20 Japanese entities on export control list for dual-use items 

The competition over critical minerals can no longer be understood simply as a contest between the US and China.
NEW GLOBAL ORDER

Beyond US-China rivalry: triangular geopolitics of critical minerals is reshaping global trade

The move amounts to a full ban on dual-use exports to the named firms, tightening rules that previously only required export licences.

China targets US rare earth and other firms with export controls

Japan is also the world’s largest consumer of chip metal gallium outside of China.

China’s rare earths curbs extend pressure on supply to Japan

Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Banque de France Governor Francois Villeroy de Galhau pose with attendees at a G7 meeting in Paris, France, May 18, 2026.

G7 finance ministers agree need for action on economic imbalances

On paper, Trump (left) and Xi converged: The US readout says “both countries agreed that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon” and Hormuz “must remain open”.

A choreographed detente: Reading the Trump-Xi summit

Western nations have attempted to limit Chinese investment in so-called critical minerals and metals key for defence industries and the energy transition.

Australia orders Chinese investors to sell stakes in rare earths firm over national security

As has been widely reported, China entered this crisis with about 1.3 billion barrels in combined strategic petroleum reserves.
THINKING ALOUD

Don’t expect any Gulf oil breakthroughs from Trump-Xi meeting

China's restrictions on some exports last year, in response to US tariffs, left global automakers and other industries exposed.

Lynas CEO says US, Europe rules sway buyers from Chinese rare earths

Japan remains highly dependent on China, especially for supplies of scarcer and heavy rare-earth elements needed for high-performance magnets.

China’s rare-earth exports to Japan show marked drop in March