▲ Donald Trump, President of the United States
On the 15th (local time), President Donald Trump ordered an investigation into the national security impact of importing processed critical minerals and derivative products, including rare earths.
Amid China’s response to U.S. tariff actions, including the restriction of rare earth exports, it is analyzed that an investigation has been launched aimed at imposing tariffs on processed critical minerals.
The White House announced that President Trump signed an executive order on “Ensuring National Security and Economic Resilience Through Section 232 Investigations on Processed Critical Minerals and Derivative Products.”
The executive order instructs Secretary of Commerce Howard Rutnick to investigate the impact of imports of processed critical minerals, rare earths, and derivatives on national security under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act.
As a result, Secretary Rutnick is required to submit an interim report within 90 days and a final report and recommendations to President Trump within 180 days.
Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act grants the U.S. President the authority to take urgent action if foreign imports threaten national security.
President Trump has previously used this law to impose a 25% tariff on steel and automobiles.
On the 14th, Kevin Hassett, Chairman of the U.S. National Economic Council (NEC) at the White House, commented on China’s control of rare earth exports, stating, “It is concerning,” and “We are currently reviewing all options.”
(Photo = AP, Yonhap News)