EU And US Approaches To Critical Minerals – Executive Summary

The United States and European Union are intensifying efforts to secure resilient supplies of critical minerals essential for clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and national security. Although aligned in strategic goals, the two jurisdictions diverge sharply in strategy.

United States: Direct Intervention and Strategic Control

The US prioritises deregulation, federal funding, and public‑private partnerships to boost domestic extraction, processing, and stockpiling. Measures include significant federal investments, equity stakes in mining projects, and long‑term offtake agreements aimed at de‑risking supply and reducing reliance on foreign—particularly Chinese—sources. Regulatory levers such as tariffs, trade investigations, and CFIUS reviews further reinforce supply chain security.