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U.S. President Donald Trump has invoked emergency powers to expand domestic production of critical minerals, aiming to reduce the nation's reliance on imports from countries like China. The executive order, leveraging Cold War-era legislation, directs government agencies, including the Department of Defense, to prioritize mining projects and provide technical and financial support to boost critical mineral production.
This move comes as trade tensions with China escalate, with Beijing controlling a significant portion of the global supply chain for vital minerals. Last year, China restricted the sale of some critical minerals to the U.S., compelling American companies to seek alternative sources for these essential materials.
The executive order emphasizes the national security risks posed by the U.S.'s dependence on foreign powers for mineral production. "Our national and economic security are now acutely threatened by our reliance upon hostile foreign powers' mineral production," the order states. "It is imperative for our national security that the United States take immediate action to facilitate domestic mineral production to the maximum possible extent."
In addition to prioritizing mining on federal land, the order also calls for the expedited approval of permits for mining and processing projects. This move highlights Trump's focus on reducing trade dependencies, particularly with China and other major suppliers.
Critical minerals, essential for technologies ranging from batteries to advanced defense systems, are at the core of this strategy. Trump has also pushed for deals to access Ukraine's mineral wealth, stating that an agreement will be signed "very shortly."
The U.S. is also in talks with the Democratic Republic of Congo regarding its mineral resources, and Trump has previously discussed the potential acquisition of Greenland, a territory rich in rare earth minerals.
This executive order reflects the growing importance of mineral production to the U.S. economy and its national security, especially in the face of trade tensions with global powers like China.
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