US-China Trade Talks Extend in London Amidst Rare Earth Tensions

US and China trade talks in London concluded their second day on June 10th, 2025, focusing on key issues such as tariffs and the export restrictions on rare-earth minerals. These minerals are critical for the global technology and green energy sectors. The talks, initially scheduled for one day, were extended due to the complexity of the issues at hand. A spokesperson for the US delegation stated that the discussions were "productive and yielded positive results." President Trump also offered a positive assessment, saying, "We are doing well with China." However, tensions remain, as the US has accused China of slow-walking its commitments regarding rare-earth shipments. The successful resolution of these trade issues could significantly impact global economic growth and stability. The talks come at a crucial time for both economies, which are showing signs of strain. Customs data shows that China's exports to the US plunged 34.5% year-on-year in May, the sharpest drop since February 2020. The ongoing discussions are a testament to the importance of international cooperation in navigating complex economic challenges.