[News] China’s Rare-Earth Shipments Hit Record in Aug. Before Xi-Trump Talks Amid Ongoing Access Risks

Ahead of a scheduled call between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on TikTok and trade issues, China’s rare-earth exports surged to a record 7,338 tons in August, Bloomberg reports, citing customs data.

As per Bloomberg, the surge marks the highest monthly level for China’s rare-earth exports since 2012. Reuters had reported that China’s shipments of rare-earth magnets already rebounded in July, rising nearly 75% from June to 5,577 metric tons—the strongest monthly total since January.

Bloomberg further notes that shipments of critical materials—including high-performance magnets used in products from consumer electronics to fighter jets—had plunged earlier this year after Beijing restricted exports amid the U.S.-China trade dispute. A temporary truce followed, and negotiators met in Madrid this week, with Trump confirming a Friday call with Xi, the report adds.

Rare-Earth Turbulence Persists

CNBC reports that China, which produced over 69% of the world’s supply in 2024 and holds nearly half of global reserves, has tightened export controls since late 2024, requiring proof that shipments won’t be used for military purpose. Following a mid-May trade truce with the U.S., China began issuing single-use export licenses, the report notes.

However, the problem persists as Beijing continues to block foreign access to critical rare-earth materials. CNBC, citing the European Chamber of Commerce in China, reports a survey released this week found that just 19 of 141 applicants—around 13.5%—had received export approval from China’s Ministry of Commerce as of Sept. 9. Respondents warned that without access to these minerals, multiple production stoppages could occur this month and later in the year, CNBC notes.

Meanwhile, the U.S. is weighing a response. On Thursday, the chair of a House China committee urged the Trump administration to restrict or suspend Chinese airlines’ U.S. landing rights unless Beijing restores full access to rare earths and magnets, Reuters reports.

Read more

• [News] China’s Rare Earth Gamble: Why Export Controls Might Ultimately Lose its Edge
• [News] U.S. Backs MP Materials With Price Guarantees to Curb China’s Rare Earth Grip; Apple Locks In Supply

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