On April 24, 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order aimed at enhancing the United States’ role in the exploration and development of offshore critical minerals.

This Order seeks to strengthen American leadership in seabed mineral resources by establishing a framework for domestic exploration, processing, and utilization of these materials, which are vital for various industries, including defense and energy. Additionally, the Executive Order aims to bolster partnerships with allies and industry to reduce the influence of foreign nations, particularly China, in the seabed mineral resource sector.

The Executive Order instructs several government secretaries to expedite the approval process for exploration and commercial recovery permits under existing legislation. It calls for the development of a comprehensive plan to map priority seabed areas and evaluate private sector interests in seabed mineral resources. Furthermore, the Order highlights the need for a joint report on international collaboration for seabed mineral exploration and the potential for benefit-sharing mechanisms with global partners.

This initiative is part of a broader strategy to position the United States as a leader in critical mineral production and innovation. In conjunction with the Executive Order on offshore minerals, President Trump has assessed the national security implications of imports of these materials and has advanced infrastructure projects that support domestic mining efforts. The overall objective is to unlock significant offshore resources to enhance the economy and improve national security.

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