China on Saturday said it had granted approval to some applications for the export of rare earths, in a move that comes just ahead of fresh trade talks between Chinese and U.S. officials on Monday. China's strict export controls over rare earths has been a flashpoint in trade relations with the U.S.

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that Chinese President Xi Jinping has agreed to resume rare earth mineral exports to the United States, signaling progress in trade negotiations. Trump indicated that talks with China are advancing,

U.S.-China tensions over rare earth minerals threaten smartphone production, risking higher costs and supply shortages.