US military leaders address China's economic warfare in global mineral markets

The U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources held an oversight hearing on February 7, 2025, focusing on the critical issue of U.S. mineral resource dependency and the growing influence of China in global markets. A key takeaway from the meeting was the urgent need for the United States to enhance its domestic mineral production capabilities to counteract China's economic strategies, which have been described as "blatant economic warfare."

Witnesses highlighted that China has been manipulating global markets, particularly in the cobalt sector, where its backing of production in the Democratic Republic of the Congo has driven U.S. competitors out of business. This situation has raised alarms about national security and economic stability, as the U.S. has become increasingly reliant on foreign sources for essential minerals.

The committee discussed the importance of collaboration with international allies to mitigate these risks. A notable example mentioned was the commitment made by five leading nations at the G7 to reduce reliance on Russian nuclear fuel, emphasizing the need for a united front against market manipulation by adversarial nations.

Additionally, the hearing addressed the significant delays in U.S. mineral project approvals, which have hindered progress and allowed foreign competitors to gain an upper hand. Lawmakers expressed a commitment to bringing these delays to light and urged for expedited processes to reclaim a competitive position in the mineral supply chain.

As the U.S. grapples with these challenges, the discussions underscored the necessity for strategic planning and action to bolster domestic mineral production and ensure national security. The committee's focus on these issues signals a pivotal moment in addressing the complexities of global mineral markets and the implications for American industry and security.