In a high-stakes geopolitical chess move, the US has united nearly 50 countries—including India—into a powerful trading bloc to wrest control of critical minerals from China. The February 4 announcement at the Critical Minerals Ministerial outlines a comprehensive framework for joint production, processing, and price stability.
China’s stranglehold—70% of rare earths, 90% refining, plus 2025 export clampdowns—threatens global tech and energy security. The bloc counters by enabling low-friction, minimum-price trade among members, insulating against manipulative pricing.
India’s EAM S. Jaishankar, present at the event, highlighted the perils of concentrated supplies and the imperative for collaborative safeguards. He reiterated India’s Forge commitment and posted on X: ‘Addressed Critical Minerals Ministerial in Washington DC. Emphasized international cooperation to counter supply chain risks from high concentration.’
US VP JD Vance was unequivocal: ‘Allies must erect tariffs and price floors for critical minerals and rare earths. This prevents China from crashing prices to oust competitors. Stable, foreseeable pricing lets America resurrect its industry, guarantees supplies, and spurs partner production. Trust each other, not outsiders.’
This alliance signals a new chapter in resource security, empowering democracies to innovate without fear of supply disruptions.