The administration of U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly drafting an executive order aimed at enabling the storage of metals and minerals sourced from the depths of the ocean. This initiative is designed to counteract China’s control over battery minerals and the rare earth supply chain, according to the Financial Times.
The proposed plans would establish extensive reserves on U.S. soil, ensuring that these resources are readily available in the event of a future conflict with China that might disrupt imports of crucial rare metals and minerals. This strategy is a direct response to recent export restrictions implemented by China, which were enacted following President Trump’s tariff measures. These restrictions could jeopardize the United States’ access to essential minerals needed for the production of smartphones and batteries for electric vehicles.
