US has Boeing parts, China has rare earth minerals: How Trump is gaining new leverage in trade talks
The latest US moves suggest that aviation supply chains could become another bargaining point as Washington and Beijing negotiate over rare earths, tariffs, technology and other areas of economic competition.
The Trump administration is tightening US exports of aviation parts to China, seeking leverage in trade negotiations. The moves come as Washington seeks access to China's rare earth minerals, crucial for various industries. The Commerce Department is slowing export licenses for airplane parts to China and considering new rules to restrict shipments of landing gear and other aircraft components.
Officials are also reviewing a proposal for tighter licensing of aviation hydraulic fluid. The Commerce Department and White House have not commented on the measures. China's embassy in Washington also did not respond to inquiries. These restrictions could impact Chinese airlines and Boeing, as China requested spare parts for about 200 Boeing aircraft it agreed to purchase last spring.
The US has been reluctant to guarantee the spare parts, viewing access to them as leverage for future concessions from Beijing. Boeing remains committed to supporting Chinese airlines while complying with US export rules. The aviation measures come amid ongoing tensions over rare earth minerals, with China dominating the global supply chain.
The US and China recently agreed to extend a trade truce, but negotiations over rare earths, tariffs, and other economic issues remain.
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