US-China Trade Talks Resume in London Amid Rare Earth Metals Tensions

Representatives from the US and China convened in London for a second round of trade talks, signaling continued friction over rare earth export restrictions. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick led the US delegation, while China's Vice Premier He Lifeng headed the opposing team. The meeting follows a temporary 90-day tariff truce negotiated in Geneva three weeks prior—a deal already under strain.

President TRUMP publicly accused China of "slow rolling" compliance with the Geneva agreement, particularly regarding rare earth metals. Since April 4, China has suspended nearly all exports of these critical materials, which account for 60% of global mining output and 90% of manufactured supply. The strategic move threatens supply chains for electronics, renewable energy components, and defense technologies.