China Defends Rare Earth Export Curbs, Blames US for Rising Trade Tensions

China has accused the United States of “severely harming” its interests through what it called unfair trade practices. The Chinese Commerce Ministry defended recent restrictions on rare earth exports, arguing they are essential for protecting national interests and environmental sustainability. Beijing said US actions have undermined the atmosphere of cooperation in trade talks. Rare earths are critical to industries such as electric vehicles and semiconductors, making the issue globally significant. Analysts say the move could disrupt global supply chains and deepen economic tensions between the world’s two largest economies.