Top US trade official spells out plan to break China’s grip on critical minerals

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Xinmei Shen,Khushboo RazdanFebruary 4, 2026 at 03:13 AM

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US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick announced a plan to counter China's control over critical mineral supply chains. Speaking in Washington D.C., Lutnick accused China of using its dominance to manipulate markets and emphasized the need for the US and its allies to establish independent and trustworthy supply chains. The strategy involves utilizing pricing, tariffs, and industrial policy to bolster domestic mining, processing, and refining capabilities. Lutnick criticized China's "dumping" practices and the previous administration's energy policies, which he believes contributed to US dependence on China for critical minerals needed for electric vehicles. The goal is to ensure the US and its allies can reliably source these resources.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Washington 30% Centre for Strategic and International Studies 40% Joe Biden 40% Beijing 50% White House 60% Howard Lutnick ×270% China ×490% United States ×690%

Keywords

critical minerals 100% supply chain 80% china 80% industrial policy 70% trade policy 70% us 60% pricing policy 60% tariffs 60% dumping 40% electric vehicles 40%