Particle.news
Download on the App Store
364 ARTICLES
·
last mo.

U.S. and Australia Seal Critical Minerals Framework Backed by Billions to Counter China

The deal launches an $8.5 billion project pipeline with near-term government financing, including initial Ex‑Im support for Australian processing ventures.

Image
U.S. President Donald Trump and Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese sign an agreement on rare earth and critical minerals during a meeting in the Cabinet Room at the White House, in Washington, D.C., U.S., October 20, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque
Image
President Donald Trump, right, listens as Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese speaks in the Cabinet Room of the White House, Monday, October 20, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Overview

  • The White House says both governments will invest more than $3 billion, with at least $1 billion in financing from each country within six months for priority projects.
  • The U.S. Export‑Import Bank plans seven letters of interest totaling about $2.2 billion, with named recipients including Arafura Rare Earths and Sunrise Energy Metals.
  • A U.S.-backed gallium project in Western Australia was highlighted by Canberra, with officials saying it could supply up to 10% of global gallium once operational.
  • Leaders framed the pact as a response to Chinese export controls and supply risks, as President Trump threatened a 100% tariff on Chinese goods if no trade deal is reached by Nov. 1 and signaled plans to meet Xi Jinping at APEC.
  • Defense ties featured alongside the minerals push, with Trump voicing support for AUKUS as officials note it remains under review and with Australia set to buy more than $1 billion in unmanned underwater vehicles.