President Trump investigates mineral imports into the US
President Trump ordered an investigation into whether mineral imports pose a threat to US security.
According to RIA Novosti on April 16, US President Donald Trump has ordered an investigation into whether the import of processed critical minerals, including uranium, poses a threat to national security.
“Based on the above risks and facts, it is necessary to conduct an investigation... to determine whether the import of processed critical minerals and their derivative products poses a threat to national security,” the order said.
The White House plans to conduct an "analysis of the distortive effects of predatory economic, pricing, and market manipulation strategies and practices" allegedly carried out by foreign countries exporting these resources to the United States.
According to the order, to reduce national security risks and increase domestic production of these minerals, the United States may impose tariffs.
Earlier, the New York Times reported that China had suspended exports of rare earth metals and magnets, and threatened to cut off supplies of key components for the auto and aerospace industries to defense contractors around the world, warning of "significant consequences for the United States and other countries."
The move comes after US President Donald Trump announced on April 2 that he would impose a general tariff on imports from all countries. The minimum basic tariff rate will be 10%. At the same time, most countries will face higher tariffs, calculated based on the US trade deficit with a particular country to achieve balance.
Beijing said it will never accept US pressure and threats and pledged to take decisive measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests.
