The updates are the most significant since the list was first mandated in 2018.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) released the draft of its critical minerals report. The agency recommended copper, potash, and silicon to the list of minerals it believes will impact the U.S. economy, which the Department of the Interior posted to the Federal Registry last week. The USGS also created new categories to track the economic impact of the 54 minerals on its list: high risk, elevated risk, and moderate risk.
In 2018, Congress first mandated that the USGS compile a critical minerals report every six years, and this is the largest update to its report structure the agency has made thus far. President Trump’s administration has committed to the domestic production and processing of metals, minerals, and rare earth elements to support the nation’s economy and national defense.
“Minerals-based industries contributed over $4 trillion to the U.S. economy in 2024, and with this methodology we can pinpoint which industries may feel the greatest impacts of supply disruptions,” USGS acting director Sarah Ryke said.
As the Lord Leads, Pray with Us…
- For Acting Director Ryke to seek God’s wisdom as she heads the USGS and its efforts to support the domestic production of critical minerals.
- For President Trump and members of his administration as they promote the strength of the domestic supply chain.
Sources: Mining,com, The Epoch Times
