President Donald Trump has taken a bold step to safeguard America’s access to vital resources by launching a new initiative focused on critical mineral imports.

On Wednesday, Trump signed an executive order targeting national security risks tied to the U.S. dependence on foreign sources for critical minerals. This action follows a Commerce Department investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, initiated last April, which found that weak supply chains and reliance on overseas minerals threaten national defense. The order aims to reduce dependence on China and strengthen international partnerships, directing agencies like the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate with allies.

The issue has sparked intense debate over America’s vulnerability in key industries. While some may downplay the urgency, the reality of relying on foreign powers for materials essential to defense and energy sectors is a glaring risk. Critical minerals power everything from fighter jets to energy infrastructure, and losing access could cripple readiness.

National Security at Stake with Minerals

Let’s not sugarcoat it—China’s grip on this market is a strategic chokehold. The U.S. Geological Survey notes that between 2020 and 2023, nearly 56% of rare earth compounds and metals came from China, a nation that’s not shy about flexing its muscle, as the Washington Examiner reports.

Beijing has slapped restrictions on exports to the U.S. and even targeted Japanese firms recently over Taiwan tensions. It’s a clear signal that mineral access is tied to geopolitical gamesmanship.

Trump’s order isn’t just paperwork; it’s a wake-up call. The White House revealed, “as of 2024, the United States was 100 percent net-import reliant for 12 critical minerals, and 50 percent or greater net-import reliant for a further 29 critical minerals.” That’s not a statistic; it’s a warning siren.

China’s Leverage in Global Trade

China’s history of using mineral control as leverage in trade talks is no secret. Whether it’s negotiations with the U.S. or pressure over Taiwan, Beijing plays hardball, and last November’s partial lifting of export curbs for a year barely scratches the surface.

Remaining restrictions and potential tariffs could unravel even that fragile deal. The administration isn’t sitting idle, though, with efforts over the past year to boost domestic production.

Partnering with nations like Malaysia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Australia shows a push to diversify supply lines. Direct ownership in mineral companies signals a hands-on approach to reclaiming control.

International Allies Join the Fight

At a White House signing ceremony, Staff Secretary Will Scharf framed the order as “a mechanism, a process” for building a secure global supply chain. Fine words, but mechanisms mean nothing without results—180 days is the deadline for agreements, or further action looms.

This week, the U.S. hosted discussions with the Group of Seven, Australia, and India to tackle China’s dominance in the sector. It’s a smart move—strength in numbers could counterbalance Beijing’s market stranglehold.

Setting price floors and weighing additional trade measures are on the table, per the order. If negotiations falter, the president has made it clear he’s ready to act decisively.

Building a Resilient Domestic Industry

The push to revitalize America’s own mineral industry is long overdue. For too long, reliance on foreign powers has left the nation exposed, especially to a competitor like China that’s wielded this advantage ruthlessly.

Supporting domestic firms is a step toward self-reliance, while partnering with allies strikes a balance between global cooperation and national interest. It’s a no-brainer for anyone prioritizing security over unchecked globalization.

Still, the road ahead isn’t paved with gold. China’s restrictions, like those on Japanese companies over geopolitical spats, remind us that mineral access is a chess game, not a handshake, and Trump’s initiative must prove a winning move.