EO 14272

Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Actions on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products

National SecurityEconomy & TradeEnergy & Environment

Summary

This executive order directs an investigation under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to determine whether imports of processed critical minerals (such as rare earth elements) and derivative products threaten to impair U.S. national security. The order establishes the policy rationale that supply chain vulnerabilities in critical minerals, which are essential for defense systems and economic infrastructure, pose risks to national security and defense readiness.

Key Points

  • 1Invokes Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act of 1962 to investigate whether imports of processed critical minerals and derivative products threaten national security
  • 2Identifies processed critical minerals (oxides, oxalates, salts, and metals) and manufactured goods containing them as essential to U.S. defense, economic infrastructure, and manufacturing sectors
  • 3Cites concerns about U.S. import dependence on a small number of foreign suppliers, vulnerability to geopolitical disruptions, and foreign producers engaging in price manipulation and export restrictions
  • 4Establishes definitions of critical minerals based on USGS Critical Minerals List and rare earth elements based on DOE classifications

This summary is for informational purposes only. It may not capture all nuances of the executive order. Always refer to the official text for authoritative information.