China Tightens Grip on Rare Earths Amid Global Trade Tensions

China has intensified its use of export controls on rare earths and critical goods, leveraging its dominance in supply chains to influence global trade dynamics and shift leverage in its favor amidst ongoing US and EU trade tensions. The slow approval process for export licenses has caused disruptions and prompted diplomatic negotiations, with China signaling a broader potential to restrict other key materials, thereby increasing its strategic power in high-tech industries.