The article discusses China's shift from transparent rare earth quota announcements to nondisclosure, arguing that this tactic enhances Beijing's coercive leverage in the global market. By creating uncertainty, China compels foreign governments and companies to adopt precautionary measures, leading to stockpiling and policy changes without direct production cuts. This strategy reflects the broader context of U.S.–China economic competition and the weaponization of information in the technological cold war.
rare earths ✓
china ✓
informational statecraft ✓