BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
A PROCLAMATION
1. On October 24, 2025, the Secretary of Commerce submitted a report detailing the findings of an investigation into the impact of imports of processed critical minerals and their derivative products (PCMDPs) on the national security of the United States, as mandated by section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962. This investigation highlighted the intricate relationship between our economic stability and national security, ultimately leading the Secretary to conclude that the current import levels of PCMDPs pose a significant threat to the security of the nation.
2. The Secretary emphasized that PCMDPs are not merely commodities; they are the lifeblood of various industries, particularly in national defense and essential infrastructure. From advanced weaponry to everyday electronics, these minerals are pivotal. For instance, rare earth permanent magnets, derived from processed critical minerals, are integral to virtually all electronic devices and vehicles.
3. Furthermore, the Secretary’s findings underscored the importance of PCMDPs to the United States’ defense industrial base, asserting that these materials are crucial for the technological edge and operational readiness of U.S. military forces. They are fundamental in the creation and maintenance of high-performance military apparatus, including fighter jets, munitions, armored vehicles, naval fleets, and advanced communication and navigation systems.
4. The investigation revealed that processed critical minerals are indispensable across all 16 critical infrastructure sectors identified by National Security Memorandum 22 of April 30, 2024. The chemical sector, for example, relies on minerals like lithium and bromine, while communications use elements such as gallium and indium in vital networks. Meanwhile, the energy sector counts on minerals like cobalt and nickel for battery technology and nuclear energy. The Secretary concluded that without these critical minerals, both military and economic stability are at risk.
5. Alarmingly, the Secretary reported that the United States has become overly dependent on foreign sources for PCMDPs. This reliance has led to an unstable supply chain, marked by significant price fluctuations and diminished domestic production capabilities. Such vulnerabilities could be exploited by foreign entities, compromising not only industrial resilience but also exposing citizens to potential economic instability and supply chain disruptions.
6. As of 2024, the landscape is stark: the U.S. is fully reliant on imports for 12 critical minerals, while more than half of another 29 are also imported. Even domestically mined resources like cobalt and rare earth elements fall short due to inadequate processing capabilities within the U.S. This paradox leaves the nation dependent on foreign processing, even for minerals extracted on American soil.
7. The Secretary further pointed out that the U.S. supply chain for PCMDPs is precarious. Disruptions, even with partially imported minerals, could expose critical sectors like defense and telecommunications to severe risks. Notably, many supply chains for the Department of War (DoW) are vulnerable, often relying on single-country suppliers, highlighting an urgent need for diversification and domestic capability enhancement.
8. Additionally, the Secretary noted that the markets for critical minerals face significant price volatility, which hampers private sector investment and threatens the sustainability of domestic mining and processing operations. This instability can lead to closures and jeopardize the long-term viability of the industry.
9. The decline in domestic production of critical minerals is evident, with numerous facilities shuttering or downsizing operations. Some producers have even relocated their activities abroad, further complicating the landscape.
10. Compounding these challenges, U.S. demand for critical minerals continues to rise due to increasing military threats and the burgeoning high-tech sectors, including artificial intelligence and renewable energy technologies. This escalating demand stands in stark contrast to the waning domestic production capabilities.
11. In light of these vulnerabilities, the Secretary has stressed that it is imperative for national security to take decisive action. This includes fortifying the supply chain for PCMDPs and enhancing domestic mining and processing capabilities to mitigate foreign dependence.
12. Based on these findings, the Secretary has recommended a suite of actions to recalibrate imports of PCMDPs to ensure they do not jeopardize national security. These recommendations include negotiating agreements with foreign nations for reliable mineral supplies and, if necessary, imposing tariffs should satisfactory agreements not materialize swiftly.
13. After reviewing the Secretary’s report and the associated findings, I concur that the importation of PCMDPs is occurring in a manner that threatens U.S. national security. Thus, I deem it essential to initiate negotiations with trading partners to adjust these imports, thereby safeguarding our national interests. Depending on the outcome of these negotiations, I may explore additional measures, such as establishing minimum import prices for certain critical minerals. I direct the Secretary and the United States Trade Representative to pursue these negotiations vigorously.
14. The authority granted under section 232 allows the President to modify imports threatening national security, including establishing a strategic plan that may involve negotiations with foreign partners and other import adjustments. Should these negotiations fail to yield results within 180 days, I will consider further actions to protect national security.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, DONALD J. TRUMP, President of the United States of America, by the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, including section 232 of 19 U.S.C. 1862; and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, do hereby proclaim as follows:
(1) The Secretary and the Trade Representative, along with any other relevant senior officials, shall collaboratively pursue negotiations, including those envisioned in section 232(c)(3)(A)(i) (19 U.S.C. 1862(c)(3)(A)(i)), aimed at addressing the national security threats posed by imports of PCMDPs from any nation. During these negotiations, considerations may include establishing price floors and other trade-restricting measures. I expect regular updates on the status of these negotiations, with an initial report within 180 days.
(2) To the extent permitted by law and in alignment with the goals of this proclamation, the Secretary, the Trade Representative, and the Secretary of Homeland Security are empowered to undertake all necessary actions to implement this proclamation, including issuing relevant regulations and guidelines. They may also redistribute responsibilities within their agencies as required to execute this mandate effectively.
(3) The Secretary shall maintain oversight of PCMDP imports and, in consultation with appropriate senior officials, periodically assess their implications for national security. The Secretary is tasked with informing me of any developments that might necessitate further presidential action under section 232.
(4) Any conflicting provisions from previous proclamations or Executive Orders are hereby superseded. Should any specific provision of this proclamation be deemed invalid, the remainder shall remain effective.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this fourteenth day of January, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.
DONALD J. TRUMP
