Why China curbing rare earth exports is a huge blow to the US

BBC - Apr 17th, 2025

China's recent imposition of export controls on rare earth minerals and magnets has intensified the ongoing trade war with the United States. This strategic move by Beijing highlights America's heavy reliance on these critical materials, which are essential in the production of high-tech products and defense technologies. In response, President Trump has directed the Commerce Department to investigate ways to bolster domestic production of these minerals and reduce dependency on imports. This development underscores the significance of rare earths in the global supply chain and raises concerns about the potential impact on US industries, particularly in defense and technology.

China's dominance in the rare earth market is a result of decades of strategic policies and investments, allowing it to control the supply chain and influence global prices. The new export restrictions, particularly on heavy rare earths, pose a significant threat to the US, which lacks the capacity to process these minerals domestically. The situation is further complicated by the US's strained relations with potential alternative suppliers. This has prompted the Trump administration to explore new partnerships and strategies to secure critical mineral supplies, emphasizing the broader implications for national security and economic resilience in light of China's expanding influence in this sector.

Donald Trump China United States Trade War Defense Technology Rare Earth Minerals Export Controls High Tech Products

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RATING

6.8

Fair Story

Consider it well-founded

The article provides a comprehensive and timely analysis of the rare earths issue within the context of US-China trade tensions. It effectively highlights the strategic importance of these minerals and the potential implications for the US. While the story is well-structured and clear, it could benefit from greater source transparency and a broader range of perspectives. The narrative is informative and engages readers on a topic of significant public interest, but certain claims require further verification for enhanced accuracy. Overall, the article succeeds in shedding light on a critical geopolitical issue, though it could be strengthened by addressing the identified areas for improvement.

Accuracy

The story provides a detailed account of China's dominance in the rare earths market and its implications for the US. The claim that China accounts for 61% of rare earth production and 92% of processing is supported by reliable sources. The story accurately describes the strategic importance of rare earths in technology and defense, as well as the historical context of China's rise in this sector. However, some claims, such as the exact impact on specific US defense technologies, require further verification. Overall, the story presents a well-researched narrative, but certain details could benefit from additional corroboration.

Balance

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the trade tensions between the US and China, focusing on the rare earths issue. It presents the perspectives of both nations, highlighting China's strategic advantage and the US's vulnerability. However, the story could include more viewpoints from other stakeholders, such as industry experts or other countries affected by the trade war. While it does mention potential US responses, it predominantly emphasizes China's actions, which may lead to a slight imbalance in perspective.

Clarity

The article is well-structured and uses clear, concise language to explain complex issues related to rare earths and trade tensions. The logical flow of information helps readers understand the strategic importance of rare earths and the potential implications for the US. The tone is neutral, and technical terms are adequately explained, making the content accessible to a general audience. However, some sections could benefit from additional context to enhance comprehension.

Source quality

The story references credible sources, such as the International Energy Agency and experts like Thomas Kruemmer and Gavin Harper. However, it lacks direct citations or links to these sources, which could enhance the credibility and reliability of the information presented. Including a wider variety of sources, such as official statements from the US government or industry reports, would strengthen the article's authority and impartiality.

Transparency

The article provides a clear narrative on the rare earths issue but lacks transparency in terms of source attribution and methodology. It does not disclose how the information was gathered or whether there are any potential conflicts of interest. The absence of direct citations or links to sources makes it difficult for readers to verify the claims independently. Greater transparency in these areas would improve the article's credibility and trustworthiness.