Japan Seeks U.S. Pressure on China to Lift Rare Earth Export Controls
With no sign of easing in China’s rare earth export restrictions on Japan, Tokyo is once again turning to the United States for intervention.
On the 2nd, the Financial Times cited informed sources in Tokyo, reporting that Japan has formally requested the United States to urge China to relax its controls on rare earth exports to Japan.
In addition, Japanese officials are attempting to mobilize American companies indirectly affected by the restrictions, urging them to lobby Washington to pressure the Trump administration into raising concerns with Beijing.
This marks yet another instance of reports detailing Japan’s efforts to enlist U.S. support in pressuring China—a recurring narrative since China imposed export controls on rare earth materials to Japan. Despite periodic media coverage, there has been little follow-up or tangible outcome reported in any outlet.
That said, China has not remained entirely silent. According to a U.S. official quoted by the Financial Times, China has fulfilled about two-thirds of its commitments regarding rare earth exports to the United States, while permitting Japan only limited purchases necessary to meet minimum domestic needs.
The U.S. official’s statement, though indirect, reflects a broader posture: the United States appears focused solely on securing its own access to rare earth resources, showing little concern over whether Japan faces supply constraints.
In essence, the United States can at best relay Japan’s message—but lacks both the leverage and authority to compel China to ease its export controls on Japan.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1879642990243019/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author alone.