Gold rush for critical minerals in the U.S. In mid-April, Mr....

Gold rush for critical minerals in the U.S.
In mid-April, Mr. Trump ordered an investigation into possible new tariffs on all U.S. critical mineral imports. China accounts for up to 80 percent of U.S. imports of rare earths. For at least 15 out of the 35 minerals deemed important for national security, the U.S. is 100 percent reliant on China for imports.

The probe threatens further trade tensions with China, the global leader in minerals and rare earths production. It comes after another U.S. presidential executive order was issued to boost American onshore mineral production. Its stated purpose is to reduce reliance on foreign minerals, create jobs and enhance national security.

Accordingly, the U.S. government will coordinate with private companies to ensure a stable and resilient domestic supply chain for critical minerals, ending “dependence on hostile foreign powers” for such supplies. The new measure also strengthens U.S. minerals security by facilitating licenses for priority mining projects on federal government-owned territory.