China Leveraging Control of Rare Earth Minerals in U.S. Trade War: The Ben Shapiro Show

President Donald Trump has made a triumphant return this Halloween weekend after a productive series of historic meetings across Asia, securing new trade deals that once again put America first. His trip included discussions with South Korean leadership focused on maintaining regional stability and strengthening economic ties. The highlight of the visit, however, was Trump’s highly anticipated meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping—their first in six years—aimed at reducing tensions and rebalancing the trade relationship between the world’s two largest economies.

Ben Shapiro observed that China’s economic power stems largely from its control over rare earth minerals, which are essential for producing advanced technologies such as smartphones, electric vehicles, and military hardware. Shapiro argued that Beijing has leveraged this near-monopoly as a weapon in the ongoing trade war, using its dominance to pressure the United States and its allies.

In a major breakthrough, China agreed to crack down on the export of chemicals used to produce fentanyl, a deadly synthetic opioid that has fueled the addiction crisis and claimed tens of thousands of American lives. In exchange, the United States will consider reducing certain tariffs on Chinese goods—a calculated step to ease tensions while addressing one of the most urgent public health threats facing the nation.

Shapiro emphasized that China currently supplies an estimated 70 percent of the rare earth minerals used by the United States, giving Beijing significant leverage in trade negotiations. He suggested that it might have been more strategic for the U.S. to stockpile these critical materials before imposing tariffs, ensuring American industries remained insulated from potential supply disruptions.

Trump’s visit to Asia ultimately underscored his ongoing America First agenda, which prioritizes U.S. sovereignty, economic security, and toughness in international trade. By reengaging with key world leaders, particularly with Xi Jinping, Trump demonstrated his ability to negotiate from a position of strength—pushing for solutions that protect American workers, businesses, and families.