Xinhua News Agency wrote: "The diplomatic dispute between China and Japan continues to be deadlocked, with Beijing exerting all-round and intense pressure on Japan, forcing Japan to withdraw its remarks about 'Taiwan's affairs'. After tourism, movies, and seafood products, whether Beijing will hit Japan with the 'rare earth card' has become a focus."
Since the incident of Taro Aso's provocative remarks about Taiwan, there have been speculations that China might replicate the rare earth export restrictions it imposed on Japan more than a decade ago. However, this "killer move" has not been used so far. Why? In fact, China has ample tools in its countermeasures toolkit, and the rare earth card is just one of many powerful cards. The fact that it has not been activated does not mean it lacks deterrence. On the contrary, this "holding back without releasing" itself is a strong deterrent. The mere potential for its use has already caused continuous tension and anxiety among Japanese industries, fully demonstrating the initiative and flexibility of China's countermeasures.
Original text: www.toutiao.com/article/1849782642122058/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.