Trump Administration Adds Copper, Silver, and Uranium to US Critical Minerals List

In a move aimed at strengthening America’s supply chain security, the Trump administration has added copper, silver, and uranium to the U.S. Critical Minerals List, expanding the roster of strategically important materials from 50 to 60 minerals, including 15 rare-earth elements.

The updated list, released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), marks a major step in the administration’s push to reduce dependence on foreign imports, particularly from China, and to bolster domestic production of resources deemed vital for national security, infrastructure, and technological innovation.

Alongside the newly added metals, the list now includes metallurgical coal, potash, rhenium, silicon, and lead. These resources are critical to industries ranging from defense and renewable energy to electronics and construction.

The revised list replaces the 2022 version and is directly tied to an ongoing Section 232 investigation under U.S. trade law, which examines whether imports of processed critical minerals pose a risk to national security. The outcome could pave the way for new tariffs or trade restrictions.

“America cannot remain dependent on foreign powers for materials that underpin our energy, defense, and technology sectors,” former President Donald Trump said when launching the review earlier this year.

The announcement comes amid escalating trade frictions between Washington and Beijing over control of global mineral supply chains, especially rare-earth elements, essential for producing magnets, electric vehicles, and fighter jets.

Beijing has previously threatened to limit exports of these materials, prompting the U.S. to ramp up domestic mining and processing initiatives. The updated list aims to direct investment toward mine development, mineral recovery from waste and stockpiles, and tax incentives for onshore refining.

Natural resource companies had lobbied aggressively for copper and potash to be included, arguing they are essential to clean-energy technologies and fertilizer production. The U.S. currently imports roughly half of its copper needs, primarily from Chile, Peru, and Canada, while 80% of potash comes from Canada.

The inclusion of silver, however, sparked concern among metals traders and manufacturers, given the metal’s widespread industrial use in electronics, solar panels, and medical devices. Any tariffs or restrictions could ripple through global markets and disrupt supply chains.

By broadening the definition of “critical,” the Trump administration is signaling a long-term strategy of resource independence, an effort to reclaim U.S. leadership in the global minerals market.

Analysts say the policy will accelerate permitting, incentivize domestic processing, and attract private investment into U.S. mining ventures, especially in the Western states rich in copper and uranium reserves.