US Seeks Australia’s Backing in Critical Minerals Dispute With Beijing

China has tightened restrictions on rare earth metals crucial for defence technologies, forcing the US to turn to its allies for support.

Flags of Australia and U.S. adorn the Eisenhower Executive Office Building of the White House in Washington, on Oct. 21, 2023. Daniel Slim/AFP via Getty Images

The United States has asked Australia for its backing in a trade battle with Beijing over the control of the global critical minerals supply.

Last week,  China’s Ministry of Commerce announced it would no longer allow the export of rare earth materials for use by foreign militaries, in a move designed to give the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) leader Xi Jinping leverage ahead of an expected meeting with President Donald Trump.