Yttrium, used in electronics and turbines, is 125 times more expensive in Europe than in China, according to price-reporting agency Argus Media: about US$ 1.15 million a metric ton against US$ 9,144 in China.

The metal is one of seven placed under Beijing’s export controls in April 2025, and almost none has been exported to Japan this year, with shipments to the United States about 70% lower than before 2025. Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping are expected to meet next week at an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation gathering in the Chinese city of Shenzhen.