US to Host G-7 Meeting on Rare Earths as China-Japan Tensions Simmer

The United States will host G-7 ministers in Washington this week to discuss rare earths and critical mineral supply chains, with officials from Canada, Japan and other partners expected to attend. Reports say China has tightened controls on some rare earth shipments to Japan, including items for civilian use.

The United States will host a meeting of G-7 ministers in Washington this week to discuss rare earths and critical mineral supply chains. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to host the talks and Ottawa said Canadian Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne will attend on Sunday and Monday. The discussions coincide with reports that China has tightened controls on some rare earth shipments to Japan, including items for civilian use. Japan has been increasing outreach to G-7 partners amid concerns over the new export restrictions. Key points: - The US will convene ministers and officials this week to focus on rare earths and critical raw materials for global supply chains. - Canada said Finance Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne will be in Washington on Sunday and Monday to meet counterparts. - Nikkei Asia reported that China has tightened controls on certain rare earth shipments to Japan, including civilian-use items, and that some approvals are being delayed or refused. - Officials from Australia, South Korea, India, Mexico and the European Union are expected to participate, and Japan's Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama plans meetings with counterparts in the US. Summary: The meeting gathers G-7 and partner officials to review supply chain security for rare earths amid reported export controls affecting Japan. Ministers and other officials will hold talks in Washington this week, with key meetings scheduled for Sunday and Monday.