U.S. policy shifts continue to shape the raw materials landscape. While the latest round of trade tariffs exempts several critical minerals, deep-sea mining may accelerate faster than expected. Meanwhile, Russia has opened the door to potential rare earth collaboration with the U.S.—the details in our roundup.
U.S. Tariffs: Critical Minerals, Semiconductors, Energy Spared—for Now
On Wednesday, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a fresh round of trade tariffs, targeting imports from multiple countries. While framed as a broad tariff on imports, the measure exempts several key goods, including energy-related products and a list of certain critical minerals.
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Canadian Company Pushes for Approval of Deep-Sea Mining
The Canadian exploration firm The Metals Company (TMC) has been seeking approval for deep-sea mining in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, an area located in international waters, for years. Since the International Seabed Authority has yet to issue permits, TMC is now turning to the U.S. government for support, which could grant a license under national legislation.
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Rare Earths: Russia Floats Cooperation With the U.S.
Nearly two weeks ago, Kirill Dmitriev, CEO of the Russian Direct Investment Fund (RDIF), proposed a potential cooperation between Russia and the United States in developing Russia’s rare earth deposits. This idea now appears to be taking shape, as discussions have reportedly begun, according to sources including Interfax.
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Australia Raises Critical Minerals Edge in Response to U.S. Tariffs
In response to the latest U.S. trade tariffs, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese unveiled a five-point plan on Friday. A key proposal is the creation of a “Critical Minerals Strategic Reserve. The initiative could make the country more resilient against global trade measures and give Australia more leverage and influence in the international critical minerals supply chains.
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China Responds: Counter-Tariffs and Export Controls on Rare Earths
Only days after Washington announced new trade tariffs—including 34% on Chinese goods—Beijing has hit back. In addition to equally sized tariffs from April 10, China is imposing export restrictions on select rare earth elements effective immediately, including dysprosium, terbium, and scandium, as well as their various compounds. As the world’s leading producer of these critical materials, China is again sending a strong economic signal—mirroring previous moves with gallium and germanium.
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