The International Energy Agency warns that growing dependence on critical minerals and a slower energy transition could put global energy security and climate goals at risk.
Announcement follows a meeting in Korea between U.S. President Trump and China's Xi Jinping.
U.S. President Welcomes Leaders from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan — Critical Minerals High on the Agenda
Copper, silver, rhenium, and silicon are now among those deemed vital to the U.S. economy and national security.
Japan has been planning to mine rare earth elements around the Pacific island of Minamitorishima for several years, and the United States may now join the effort following the recent conclusion of a bilateral minerals agreement.
The Canadian refining company aims to supply critical rare earth elements for magnet production in the United States and Europe.