In a statement to reporters at the White House , Obama said the case seeks to force China to lift export limits on certain minerals known as rare earths . NEW : Chinese growth is good , but Beijing must follow the rules , the White House says . President Ron Kirk says Japan , the White House and the United States take action . China says its policy on rare earths is in line with European Union regulations . China produces 97 % of all rare earths , which are used to make high-tech products .
NEW : Chinese growth is good , but Beijing must follow the rules , the White House says . President Ron Kirk says Japan , the White House and the United States take action . China says its policy on rare earths is in line with European Union regulations . China produces 97 % of all rare earths , which are used to make high-tech products .