• US officials call China's rare earth export controls an economic coercion tactic.
• President Trump threatens a further 100% tariff on Chinese imports starting November 1.
• China emphasizes its role as a vital partner and dismisses US claims of coercion.
• Efforts for a coordinated global response among US allies are underway.
• Meeting between Trump and Xi Jinping may occur later this month to discuss tensions.

The ongoing trade dispute between the US and China has escalated following China's announcement of new export controls on rare earth minerals, which the US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described as "a global supply-chain power grab." During a press conference, Bessent emphasized that the situation represents a conflict of "China versus the world," urging that the US and its allies must collaborate to de-risk and diversify their supply chains away from Chinese dependence. This move comes as the US prepares to respond with potential 100 percent tariffs on Chinese goods, effective November 1st, according to Indiatimes, TRT Global, and ABC News.

China's latest export curbs require foreign companies to seek government approval to export products containing rare earth elements, which Beijing justifies as necessary for national security. In response, US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer remarked that such measures amount to economic coercion affecting global economies. He noted, "This should be a clear sign to our allies that we must work together," as the US aims to strengthen cooperation with other nations affected by this aggressive stance from China, as indicated by sources including SCMP, Reuters, and Channel News Asia.

The geopolitical implications of China's export policies have been extensive, impacting sectors from technology to defense. Bessent further claimed that if China continues its course of action, it risks being viewed as an unreliable partner, stating, "If China wants to be an unreliable partner to the world, then the world will have to decouple." As tensions mount, he hinted at ongoing discussions aimed at stabilizing relations ahead of a potential meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled for later this month, according to BBC, Reuters, and SCMP.

China has publicly rebuffed US criticisms, asserting that the export controls are not aimed at creating a divide and that compliance protocols are in place for applicants seeking to export rare earths. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce characterized US claims as exaggerated, aiming to distort the true intent of their actions. This public relations battle is occurring against a backdrop of heightened tariffs and strained trade relations, as noted by multiple reports from Indiatimes, TRT Global, and Reuters.