REE Export Flash Survey: A Mixed Picture
When President Donald Trump and President Xi Jinping agreed to a trade truce in Busan late last year, a key ask was for China to improve the flow of rare earth elements (REEs) and derivative product exports to US companies. The topic will almost certainly come up again as the leaders prepare for Trump’s now-delayed state visit to Beijing. Any friction or progress on the REE issue, including movement on China’s now-suspended extraterritorial export controls due to be reimposed this November, will be an important indicator of bilateral tension or stability.