The United States government is preparing a new executive order aimed at stockpiling deep-sea metals essential for the production of batteries and electronics, in a clear move to reduce dependency on foreign sources—particularly China. This effort is part of a broader national strategy to strengthen supply chain resilience and secure long-term access to critical raw materials necessary for emerging technologies and national defense.
Under the proposed plan, the U.S. would begin accumulating key metals such as cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements, sourced from deep-sea mining operations. These materials are integral to manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, renewable energy systems, and various high-tech defense applications. The new stockpile is expected to serve as a buffer against potential geopolitical disruptions and export restrictions.
The urgency of the initiative follows growing concerns over China’s dominant role in the global supply of refined rare earth elements. China currently processes the majority of the world’s rare earth minerals, giving it substantial leverage in global markets. Recent moves by Beijing to limit exports of certain minerals have further intensified U.S. efforts to diversify its sourcing and invest in domestic and allied capabilities.
In addition to creating a strategic reserve, the executive order may also pave the way for the acceleration of permits for deep-sea mining projects, particularly those under U.S. jurisdiction or in collaboration with international partners. This could include partnerships in the Pacific Ocean and other international waters where deep-sea mining potential remains largely untapped.
Environmental concerns surrounding deep-sea mining remain a point of contention, with ongoing debates about the ecological impact of extracting metals from the ocean floor. However, supporters argue that the benefits of reducing reliance on politically sensitive sources and achieving greater material security outweigh the risks, especially if operations follow strict environmental protocols.
As the global race for critical resources accelerates, the U.S. is positioning itself to remain competitive and self-reliant. The development of a deep-sea metals stockpile represents a calculated and proactive approach to securing the materials needed for the technological and energy transition of the future.