Trump Launches National Security Probe into Critical Minerals Imports

President Donald Trump has initiated a probe into potential tariffs on critical minerals imports, a significant escalation in the ongoing trade tensions with China and other global partners. The investigation, directed by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act, aims to assess the national security implications of the U.S. reliance on processed minerals such as cobalt, nickel, and rare earths. This move comes amid China's recent export restrictions on rare earth elements, which are essential for various industries, including defense and electronics. The U.S. currently has limited domestic production capabilities for these critical minerals, raising concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities and economic stability. The scope of the inquiry includes both raw and processed materials, signaling a broad approach to addressing these trade issues. Trump's order reflects ongoing worries about national security risks tied to dependence on foreign mineral processing, particularly from China.