Will India and Allies Support US Against China's Rare Earth Export Controls?
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Synopsis
In a significant move, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasizes the need for collective action against China's export controls on rare earths. With expectations of support from allies like India, the US aims to combat these restrictions effectively. How will this impact global trade dynamics?
Key Takeaways
- US expects support from allies like India against China's export controls.
- Global trade dynamics are at stake due to China's restrictions on rare earth elements.
- Countermeasures from the US include potential tariffs and export controls on critical technologies.
- The meeting between Trump and Xi is crucial for future trade relations.
- Collaboration among democracies is emphasized in addressing these challenges.
Washington, Oct 14 (NationPress) US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent disclosed on Monday that the United States anticipates cooperation from its allies, including India, in its efforts to challenge China’s recent export restrictions on rare earth elements.
In a conversation with Fox News, Bessent described the Chinese export limitations as “China versus the world” and expressed assurance that US partners would support Washington’s initiatives.
“We have already reached out to our allies. We will convene with them this week, and I anticipate receiving considerable global backing from Europeans, Indians, and other democracies in Asia…This is a worldwide concern, and I believe our global allies will align with us on this,” he remarked.
Bessent emphasized that the US will not tolerate “these export restrictions and monitoring” and asserted that “everything is on the table” for retaliatory actions against China’s measures.
“Earlier this summer, we had to implement 12 countermeasures against China that significantly impacted natural resources used in producing plastics for jet engines and components. I believe this led to a grounding of a substantial portion of their civilian fleet. We have numerous powerful countermeasures at our disposal,” he said.
US President Donald Trump threatened on Friday to impose additional 100 percent tariffs on Chinese goods starting November 1, alongside export controls on “any critical software.”
In another statement, he suggested the possibility of canceling a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, accusing Beijing of “hostile” trade practices following China’s expansion of export controls on rare earth elements.
However, on Sunday, Trump stated there was no need to “worry about China,” claiming the Chinese President was experiencing a “bad moment.”
Recently, Beijing has intensified its export control policies on rare-earth elements and imposed fees on US vessels, as Washington broadened its own export regulations.
Bessent confirmed that the meeting between Trump and Xi would proceed in South Korea.
“President Trump mentioned that the tariffs would not take effect until November 1. He will be meeting with Party Chair Xi in Korea. I believe the meeting is still on. There has been significant communication over the weekend,” he stated.
Both nations have been engaged in trade talks since April, with a temporary truce set to expire on November 10.
Point of View
It is imperative to recognize the US's strategic approach in addressing China’s rare earth export controls. The emphasis on collaboration with allies like India is crucial in this global economic landscape. While the US seeks to assert its position, the response from China and the effectiveness of these measures will shape future trade relations.
NationPress
14/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are rare earth elements?
Rare earth elements are a group of 17 metals critical for various high-tech applications, including electronics, renewable energy, and military technology. Their strategic importance has led to heightened tensions in global trade.
Why is the US targeting China’s export controls?
The US aims to counter China's export restrictions on rare earths to maintain its technological edge and ensure the security of its supply chains against potential monopolistic practices.
What is the role of India in this situation?
India is seen as a key ally in the US's efforts to challenge China’s export controls, as both countries seek to strengthen their economic ties and collaborate on critical global issues.
What measures can the US take against China?
The US may implement tariffs, export controls, and other countermeasures to retaliate against China's restrictive policies, as indicated by Treasury Secretary Bessent.
How will this affect global trade?
The ongoing tensions may lead to shifts in global supply chains, increased prices for critical materials, and potential re-alignments of international trade partnerships.
