#USChinaTensions

According to a notice in the Federal Registry, the U.S. is considering imposing charges on Chinese ships docking at American ports. This measure is set to begin in 180 days and will increase incrementally.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized the importance of the American consumer to China, stating, "China wants what we have; what every country wants, what we have - the American consumer. Or to put another way, they need our money."

China, however, is not backing down and has curbed exports of rare earth minerals, which are crucial for products ranging from computer hard drives to jet engines.

Thomas Kruemmer, editor at the Rare Earth Observer, highlighted the significance of these minerals, saying, "Everything I can switch on and off would not really work without rare earths."