Nikkei News: The U.S. Requests China Resume Rare Earth Exports to Japan.
On June 9, 2026, Nikkei News reported, citing multiple anonymous diplomatic sources from the U.S. and Japan, that the Trump administration has requested China resume exports of rare earth materials to Japan. Washington plans to discuss this issue during next week’s G7 Summit. The report stated that the U.S. is increasingly concerned about the shrinking global supply of high-tech products from Japan.
Data from Japan's Energy Metals and Mineral Resources Agency shows that Japan's annual rare earth demand of approximately 200,000 tons is primarily dependent on imports, with 70% coming from China in 2024. Since China strengthened export controls on dual-use items to Japan starting January 2026, exports have sharply declined:
According to Chinese customs data, since December 2025, China has essentially halted exports of heavy rare earths such as dysprosium, terbium, and yttrium oxide to Japan, while exports of gallium—key metal for chip manufacturing—have been nearly completely suspended.
In March and April 2026, China’s rare earth exports to Japan dropped by 88% and 82% respectively compared to the same period last year.
Dysprosium and terbium, essential for electric vehicles, saw their exports to Japan fall to zero starting January 2026; exports of yttrium also declined by over 90% from January to April this year.
Although Japan has superficially endured about five months of supply disruption, underlying stockpile pressures are approaching a critical threshold.
To cope with Japan, Trump’s inner monologue: I know my request won’t work, but I can’t afford to look weak—this move is necessary to maintain team unity. Even if I ask, whether or not you get your supplies restored is beyond my control. You’re on your own now!
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1867512665734220/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.