Part 3/10:
One of the pivotal issues discussed was China’s control over rare earth minerals—vital components used in modern electronics, magnets, and other high-tech applications. On October 8, China announced plans to impose export controls on products containing even 0.01% of rare earth elements, a move that sent shockwaves through global markets. In response, the Trump administration successfully negotiated a one-year pause on these export restrictions, providing breathing space to develop alternatives and reinforce domestic capacity.