China Expands Rare-Earth Export Curbs Ahead of Trump-Xi Talks

China imposed new export restrictions on rare earth materials, escalating U.S.–China trade tensions ahead of upcoming presidential talks. The move targets critical inputs for semiconductors, EV batteries, and defense technologies, underscoring Beijing’s leverage in strategic supply chains. Analysts said the restrictions could disrupt global manufacturing and raise input costs, while intensifying negotiations on technology access and trade policy between the world’s two largest economies.