U.S. and Allies Move to Break China's Grip on Critical Mineral Supply Chains
Representatives from 55 countries, including Germany, Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, and the EU, gathered recently to discuss critical mineral supply chains. The meeting focused on reducing reliance on China, which currently dominates the sector with a near-monopoly on key resources like aluminium, lithium, and zinc—essential for semiconductors and high-tech manufacturing.
The U.S. has already taken steps to secure its own supply, allocating billions of dollars to build a new strategic mineral reserve. Now, the Trump administration plans to sign framework agreements with multiple partners to further strengthen access to these vital materials. Vice President JD Vance outlined ambitions to form a commercial bloc among allies, ensuring stable resource flows for industrial production.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the risks of China's control over critical minerals, warning that it could grant the country significant geopolitical leverage. The U.S. is pushing for expanded production across regions, aiming to diversify supply chains and reduce dependence on a single source.
Before the summit, 13 Sub-Saharan African governments—including Eswatini, Kenya, Liberia, and Nigeria—had already signed bilateral deals with the U.S. under the America First Global Health Strategy. While primarily health-focused, these agreements were referenced as part of broader mineral cooperation efforts. Meanwhile, the EU has also indicated plans to negotiate a raw materials partnership with Washington.
The proposed alliance seeks to create a more balanced and secure supply of critical minerals. With new agreements in development and existing partnerships already in place, the U.S. and its allies aim to reshape the global market for these essential resources. The outcome could shift production networks and reduce China's current dominance in the sector.
