By Lewis Jackson

BEIJING (Reuters) -China has further tightened export restrictions on rare earths ahead of talks between Presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping at the end of the month.

The country produces over 90% of the world’s processed rare earths and rare earth magnets and has used export restrictions to throttle shipments.

The 17 rare earth elements are vital materials in products ranging from electric vehicles to aircraft engines and military radars.

Here’s what you need to know about the new rules:

WHAT DID CHINA ANNOUNCE?

China already tightly controlled its exports of rare earths but on Thursday added five new elements, bringing the total subject to restrictions to 12.

It also limited the export of dozens of pieces of equipment and material used to mine and refine rare ea

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