Report: China Targeting US Military With Rare Earth Export Curbs

Published 3 hours ago

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Above: Rare earth element metal cubes displayed on the U.S. and China flags. Image copyright: Cheng Xin/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-China narrative

China's "validated end-user" system ensures that exports of rare-earth magnets do not end up in U.S. military use, safeguarding Beijing's national security interests. By selectively granting export licenses only to civilian firms, China strengthens its geopolitical leverage and preserves supply-chain dominance, compelling American defense contractors to seek alternative sources.

Global Times XINHUA

Pro-establishment narrative

China's new licensing regime for rare-earth magnets discriminates against U.S. military suppliers — effectively weaponizing supply-chain dependence. By fast-tracking civilian exports and blocking defense-linked ones, Beijing undermines U.S. national security readiness and exploits its 70-90% control over the sector to gain an advantage in trade and geopolitics.

Wall Street Journal Csis

Establishment-critical narrative

Rare earths fuel the war machine. The U.S., trapped by its own neglect, watches China command the minerals that make modern power possible. Each jet, ship and missile devours these elements. Without rebuilding alliances and global infrastructure, the West's arsenal will rust — its strength buried beneath its own complacency.

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