US Plans Deep-Sea Metals Stockpile Amid China's Export Restrictions

The Trump administration is reportedly drafting an executive order to establish a strategic stockpile of deep-sea metals, aiming to reduce U.S. dependence on China for critical battery minerals and rare earth elements. This initiative follows China's recent export restrictions on certain rare earths in retaliation to U.S. tariffs, highlighting the escalating trade tensions between the two nations. The proposed stockpile would ensure that essential materials are readily available in the U.S. in case of conflicts that disrupt imports. This move is part of a broader strategy to boost domestic production and fast-track deep-sea mining applications, given that China currently controls about 90% of the global refined output of these critical resources. The White House and China's foreign ministry have not yet commented on the proposed order. This strategic initiative underscores the importance of securing independent supply chains for technologies essential to defense and high-tech industries.