Washington, June 3: US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has issued a stark warning regarding China’s increasing control over the global supply chain of essential minerals. This trend poses significant risks to both economic and national security. Rubio emphasized that the United States is actively expanding partnerships worldwide to reduce its reliance on Beijing for vital resources needed in advanced technologies, defense systems, and industrial production.
Speaking before the House Appropriations Subcommittee, Rubio pointed out that the concentration of critical minerals and their processing capabilities in a single country is a strategic vulnerability not only for the United States but also for its allies in Europe and Asia.
He stated, “It is not good for the world economy, and frankly, it is dangerous for national security to rely on a single country for up to 90 percent of any essential resource, whether it be your industrial base, defense systems, or technology.”
This statement comes at a time when the Trump administration is prioritizing ‘critical minerals’ in its economic and foreign policy, especially amid rising competition with China.
Critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, rare earth elements, and graphite are essential for electric vehicles, semiconductors, batteries, telecom equipment, renewable energy technologies, and modern military systems.
Rubio noted that the US is collaborating with numerous countries to diversify the supply chain, aiming to establish alternative sources for both raw materials and their processing.
He revealed, “We have included over three dozen countries in the Critical Minerals Ministerial Meeting.”
According to him, critical minerals have become a crucial component of US diplomacy, with efforts underway at nearly every American embassy.
He added that this issue has now gained significant priority in US foreign policy to reduce dependence on China through collaboration with various nations.
Rubio also highlighted that excessive reliance on a single country for essential goods could be exploited for economic pressure during crises.
Furthermore, he clarified that the US strategy extends beyond merely acquiring minerals. It also focuses on developing processing capabilities in countries where these resources are found.
John Molinar, chairman of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, also emphasized the importance of strengthening the supply chain and reducing dependence on China.
Rubio expressed similar concerns regarding pharmaceuticals and other sectors where production has become overly concentrated in China, posing risks to global markets and national security.
–
Leave a Comment