President Donald Trump moved Friday to exempt graphite, tungsten, uranium, gold bullion and other metals from his country-based tariffs, while subjecting silicone products to the levies. The changes are set to take effect on Monday under an executive order issued Friday.
A proposal by South Africa’s biggest mining company and other business leaders advising President Cyril Ramaphosa on how to offer the US access to Africa’s critical minerals angered the nation’s mining minister who saw it as an attempt by the firm to advance its own interests. The plan was put forward by the group, which included Sibanye-Stillwater CEO Neal Froneman and board member Rick Menell, before Ramaphosa’s May 21 meeting with President Donald Trump. Mineral and Petroleum Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe said he objected because his department hadn’t been involved in its creation, and neither had the Minerals Council South Africa, which represents most mining companies operating in the country.
Cooperation with Canada is Essential for the United States to Free Itself from China’s Grip on Critical Minerals
The challenge of securing reliable access to critical minerals has become acute just as the incoming Trump administration prepares to assume office in the United States. This week’s Blog from Lewis Black at Almonty Industries demonstrates how cooperation – not confrontation – between Canada and the United States will be critical in ensuring a more sustainable future for both countries.