US Warns China Over Rare-Earth Commitments
The United States has warned China to fully honour its commitments on rare-earth supplies and American agricultural purchases as Washington and Beijing prepare for a possible meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in September.
US Presses China on Rare-Earth Supplies
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Trade Representative Jamieson Greer raised the issue during discussions with Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng.
Bessent said Washington expected Beijing to meet its commitments concerning rare-earth minerals and US agricultural products. American officials reportedly believe China has only partially fulfilled its obligations to maintain critical mineral supplies under earlier trade arrangements.
Rare-earth materials are essential for defence equipment, electric vehicles, electronics, renewable-energy systems and advanced manufacturing. China dominates global refining and magnet production, giving Beijing considerable influence over international supply chains.
Chinese Export Restrictions Draw Warning
Washington has also criticised China’s expanded export controls targeting American rare-earth mining and processing companies and other businesses accused of links to the US military.
The restrictions limit access to dual-use technologies and critical materials. American officials described the measures as problematic and warned that continued escalation could have consequences, without specifying possible retaliatory action.
China introduced the restrictions after Washington classified several major Chinese companies, including electric vehicle and technology firms, as supporting the Chinese military.
Trump-Xi September Summit Takes Shape
The talks were the first direct discussions between senior US and Chinese economic officials since Trump and Xi met in Beijing in May.
That meeting produced new bilateral trade and investment forums. China also committed to purchasing 200 Boeing aircraft and at least $17 billion annually in additional US agricultural goods from 2026 to 2028.
Beijing said the latest talks involved frank and constructive exchanges. China also raised concerns about recent American trade restrictions and called for stronger communication to maintain stable economic relations ahead of the potential September summit.
