China has reduced the length of rare-earth export approvals granted to European companies, according to multiple official statements issued on 3 July. The step, which effectively applies tighter oversight to the shipment of minerals critical for electric vehicles, wind turbines and other clean-tech applications, comes amid broader trade frictions between Beijing and Brussels. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking alongside his German counterpart Johann Wadephul in Berlin, said China could "meet Europe’s demand" as long as firms comply with export-control rules and complete the required paperwork. The ministry of commerce echoed that position, adding that dialogue and cooperation are the "right path forward" and that rare-earth supplies “should not become an issue between China and Europe.” Berlin nonetheless criticised the new licensing regime, warning that further restrictions risk undermining already strained trade relations. The dispute unfolded as Wang wrapped up the 13th China-EU High-Level Strategic Dialogue in Brussels and the eighth China-Germany Strategic Dialogue in Berlin, where Beijing urged the bloc to avoid confrontation and to adopt a more “objective and rational” stance toward China. Separately, China’s commerce ministry noted progress in implementing the so-called London framework with the United States after Washington began lifting several export curbs. Beijing said it hopes both the US and the EU will "move in the same direction" to resolve outstanding economic differences through negotiations.