Trump Invokes Section 232 to Curb Critical‑Mineral Imports, Directs Trade Talks
The directive seeks to counter national-security risks from foreign-controlled mineral supply chains through allied negotiations on price floors.
Overview
- The proclamation instructs the Commerce Secretary and the U.S. Trade Representative to negotiate agreements that adjust imports of processed critical minerals and derivative products.
- The administration will seek the adoption of price floors with partners to address non‑market practices affecting the sector.
- A completed Section 232 investigation by Commerce found that current import levels threaten to impair U.S. national security.
- The president set a 180‑day deadline for deals and warned he may take additional steps if negotiations stall, lapse, or prove ineffective.
- The move builds on an April executive order, the approval of Alaska’s Ambler Road project, and minerals agreements with Australia, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Thailand, and Japan.