China issues first batch of streamlined rare earth export licenses, source says

At least three Chinese rare earth magnet makers have secured licenses enabling them to accelerate exports to some customers, a source familiar with the matter said on Tuesday, fulfilling a key outcome of the summit between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping. 

Why it matters

China began designing a new rare earth licensing regime centered around so-called “general licenses” following the late October meeting between Trump and Xi that eased trade tensions between the two countries, Reuters reported in early November.