Key Facts
• June 7: China’s Ministry of Commerce approved some rare earth export applications.
• No details provided on target countries or industries for the exports.
• Rare earth demand is rising in robotics and electric vehicles (EVs).
• June 6: Reuters reported temporary export permits for US automakers.
• June 7: China announced faster approval for rare earth exports to Europe.
• June 9: US-China trade talks scheduled in the UK.
• Recent phone call held between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump.
Summary
China’s Ministry of Commerce has approved some rare earth export applications, potentially easing tensions ahead of US-China trade talks on June 9 in the UK. While specific countries and industries were not disclosed, the ministry acknowledged growing demand for rare earths in robotics and EVs. Reuters reported temporary export permits for US automakers, and China plans to expedite approvals for European exports. This development follows a recent phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and former US President Donald Trump.
