The United States is stepping up efforts to reduce its dependence on China's rare earth magnets as global supply chains for the critical minerals continue to expand.
According to the report, Beijing's dominance of the sector and its use of export controls during the 2025 trade dispute prompted Washington to strengthen domestic production and diversify supplies.
According to the report, President Donald Trump signed an executive order on July 20 requiring defense contractors to source key minerals from the United States or allied countries, while limiting the Pentagon's ability to grant waivers.
New rare earth discoveries in countries including Brazil and Vietnam are also expected to broaden global supply, potentially reducing China's long-standing influence over the market.
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U.S. faces new pressure to build weapons without China's rare-earth magnets https://t.co/DBvr9g497t
— The Washington Times (@WashTimes) August 3, 2026
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