The 15-year effort by Japan is a model for countries now scrambling to reduce their dependence on Beijing’s critical metals.

The U.S. announced agreements on Sunday with Malaysia, Thailand and Cambodia, securing support for its efforts to pressure China on trade and critical minerals.

Investors sent major global indexes higher on optimism that President Trump and China’s top leader, Xi Jinping, could reach a wider agreement this week.

Concern is increasing throughout Southeast Asia as U.S. officials, intent on slowing China, have yet to say how they will define the origin country of imports.

President Trump’s visit shows how the United States and China are vying for influence in Asia over trade, technology and the fate of Taiwan.

President Trump is embarking on a six-day diplomatic tour of Asia, testing his role as a statesman and negotiator as he pursues a trade deal with Beijing.