US and China Reach Trade Agreement Covering Rare Earths and Student Visas

Edited by: Reda El Ghazal

The United States and China have formalized a new trade agreement, according to statements from both US officials and the Chinese Commerce Ministry. This development comes as part of ongoing efforts to ease tensions and maintain open economic dialogue between the two global powers. While details remain limited, the deal notably addresses access to rare earth minerals and the facilitation of student visas for Chinese nationals studying in the United States.

Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick confirmed the agreement was finalized earlier in the week, describing it as officially completed. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about further trade deals, including one anticipated soon with India. The exact terms of the pact were not fully disclosed, but it appears to build upon prior arrangements aimed at simplifying US industry’s procurement of rare earth elements critical to high-tech manufacturing. Concurrently, the agreement also marks a pause in US efforts to restrict visas for Chinese students on American campuses.

From the Chinese perspective, their Commerce Ministry emphasized mutual commitments under the framework, highlighting planned approvals for exports of controlled items in line with existing regulations. While it stopped short of explicitly detailing rare earth provisions, the statement suggested an intention to ease export restrictions, which have been a major point of negotiation given the strategic importance of these minerals in sectors like electric vehicles and advanced technology. Additionally, China has recently enhanced regulatory measures concerning fentanyl precursor chemicals, addressing concerns raised by the US about illegal drug manufacturing inputs.

This accord follows earlier discussions held in Geneva and London, where both parties agreed to postpone proposed tariff increases and set parameters for negotiation. Officials characterize the agreement as a significant step toward stabilizing trade relations amid complex geopolitical dynamics, underscoring a commitment to sustained dialogue and cooperation.