Natl Interest: The Americas’ Critical Minerals Moment

By working together, the Western Hemisphere can increase its economic independence and resilience.

The United States has a narrow window to reshape its economic future and its role in the Americas if it moves decisively. A network of special economic zones could secure critical minerals supply chains, compete with China, and catalyze growth across the Western Hemisphere. Designed with enforceable standards, it would demonstrate that the Americas can deliver long-term growth and security.

The Critical Minerals Challenge and Opportunity

Critical minerals are at the heart of technological dynamism and national security, powering everything from chips to grid-scale storage to defense platforms. Yet, most mines and refineries are concentrated in a few countries, with China being predominant across midstream processes. China processes more than 90 percent of the world’s battery-grade manganese sulfate, 70 percent of cobalt, nearly 60 percent of lithium, and 40 percent of copper, leaving manufacturers and US companies vulnerable to geopolitical shocks.