US President Trump has invoked emergency powers to enhance domestic production of critical minerals, a move aimed at reducing the US’ dependence on foreign suppliers, particularly China, reported Reuters.
The executive order leverages the Defense Production Act (DPA) to provide financial support for the processing of critical minerals such as lithium and nickel, which are essential for electronics and electric vehicle batteries.
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The DPA, a law from the 1950s, grants the Department of Defense (DOD) authority to secure equipment for national defence. The executive order directs federal agencies to identify mines for quick approval and federal lands suitable for mineral processing.
The order is part of a broader initiative to increase US energy and mineral production amidst a growing trade conflict with major mineral producers such as China and Canada.
The US has limited domestic production of lithium and nickel and only one operational rare earths mine, underscoring the urgency to bolster its mining capabilities.
Trump’s executive order declares reliance on foreign minerals a national security threat, stating: “The United States was once the world’s largest producer of lucrative minerals, but overbearing federal regulation has eroded our nation’s mineral production.”
David Copley, a former Newmont executive, has been appointed to oversee the US National Energy Dominance Council’s mining portfolio, two sources familiar with the matter told Reuters.
The order also expedites permitting for mining and processing projects and instructs the Interior Department to prioritise mineral production on federal land. This includes copper and gold, which are not classified as critical by the US Geological Survey.
National Mining Association trade group head Rich Nolan expressed support for the president’s action, saying: “Ramping up American mining is a national security imperative and President Trump’s strong action recognises that.”
Additionally, Trump announced an impending minerals and natural resources deal with Ukraine and has ordered an investigation into potential tariffs on copper imports.
