Xi Is Driving Japan, US From Economic Defense to Offense Against China, Analyst Says
Beijing could face restrictions on vital technology from Tokyo and Washington over its rare earth squeeze, according to a former U.S. diplomat.
TL;DR
- China's rare-earth squeeze on Japan is leading to increased cooperation between Japan and the U.S.
- This cooperation is focused on 'economic defense' and potentially 'economic offense' against China.
- China controls a significant portion of global rare earth mining, refining, and processing.
- Expert Grant Newsham believes China's actions will drive free nations to decouple and reduce reliance on Chinese materials.
- Xi Jinping's strategy is spurring the Japanese and Americans to work together.