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Trump signed the order Wednesday, which declared a national emergency addressing the security threat posed by China supplying 80% of the earth minerals used in commercial and defense technologies. It directed a number of Cabinet officials and military leaders to devote all available resources toward advancing the growth of a domestic mining and processing industry.
In particular, the order directs Interior Secretary David Bernhardt, Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin and Defense Secretary Mark Esper to expedite permits, establish facilities and slash regulations slowing the growth of the industry.
“By expanding and strengthening domestic mining and processing capacity today, we guard against the possibility of supply chain disruptions and future attempts by our adversaries or strategic competitors to harm our economy and military readiness,” the order reads. “Moreover, additional domestic capacity will reduce United States and global dependence on minerals produced in countries that do not endorse and pursue appropriate minerals supply chain standards, leading to human rights violations, forced and child labor, violent conflict, and health and environmental damage.”