Why Rare Earth Minerals Matter to Donald Trump
Rare earth minerals have emerged as a geopolitical flashpoint, and former President Donald Trump has aggressively pushed to secure U.S. access to them. His focus stems from national security risks, economic competition, and China’s near-monopoly on these critical resources.
What Are Rare Earth Minerals?
Rare earth minerals are 17 elements essential for modern technology, including smartphones, electric vehicles (EVs), and advanced military systems. Though not scarce globally, their extraction and processing are dominated by a handful of nations—primarily China.
China’s Dominance: A Strategic Weakness
China produces 80% of the world’s rare earths and controls 90% of processing, giving it outsized influence. In 2010, China cut exports to Japan during a dispute, exposing global reliance. Trump labeled these minerals “critical” in 2018, warning of U.S. vulnerability during the U.S.-China trade war.
Trump’s Strategies to Counter China
As president, Trump took decisive steps to reduce dependence:
1. Executive Action: Signed orders to fast-track U.S. mining and production.
2. Military Investment: Funded MP Materials, the sole major U.S. rare earth mine.
3. Global Alliances: Partnered with Australia and others to diversify supply chains.
Challenges like environmental rules and high costs slowed progress, but Trump’s 2024 campaign keeps rare earths central to his “America First” agenda.
Why Rare Earths Still Matter in 2024
- Tech & Defense: Semiconductors, EVs, and weapons systems rely on these minerals.
- Economic Security: Trump warns China could weaponize supply chains.
- Jobs Revival: Domestic production aligns with Trump’s manufacturing promises.
Biden’s Policies vs. Trump’s Potential Return
Biden continued some initiatives (e.g., Inflation Reduction Act subsidies) but faces environmental pushback. Trump would likely:
– Deregulate mining permits faster.
– Impose tariffs on Chinese exports.
– Strengthen partnerships with Australia and Africa.
The U.S.-China Rare Earth War: Who Wins?
Control over rare earths could shape:
– Green Energy (wind turbines, solar panels).
– Military Edge (hypersonic missiles, drones).
– Tech Leadership (AI, 5G infrastructure).
For Trump, it’s not just about economics—it’s about preventing Chinese leverage in a tech-driven future.
What’s Next for U.S. Rare Earth Policy?
If re-elected, Trump may:
– Expand mining in Wyoming, Texas, and California.
– Sanction Chinese rare earth firms.
– Boost R&D for alternative materials.
The stakes are clear: Whoever controls rare earths controls tomorrow’s economy.
