President Donald Trump has decided to use emergency powers to enhance America's capacity to extract crucial minerals, which may also include coal. This move is aimed at increasing domestic resource development and reducing reliance on foreign imports.

In an executive order signed by the president, the Defense Production Act will be utilized to offer funding, loans, and investment assistance for the domestic processing of critical minerals and rare earth elements. The US International Development Finance Corporation, in collaboration with the Department of Defense, will provide financial support for new mineral production projects.

The order calls for expedited permitting for mining and processing initiatives, as well as instructs the Interior Department to prioritize mineral production on federal lands. The objective is to address concerns over China's dominant control in processing vital minerals, essential for products ranging from batteries to defense systems, crucial for national energy and security.

The decision to boost domestic mineral production is a response to the US and its allies' fears about China's stronghold on critical minerals processing. The Trump administration aims to work with the private sector to establish a dependable and robust domestic supply chain for critical minerals, which could potentially encompass uranium, copper, potash, gold, and other elements, compounds, or materials as determined by the National Energy Dominance Council.

To meet the needs of the Defense Department and private sector, there will be government assistance to enhance domestic production capabilities and combat concerns over potential shortages. China's imposition of export controls on materials like germanium, gallium, and antimony has raised concerns, prompting the US to take steps towards achieving self-sufficiency in critical mineral production.