Trump officials have been huddling with U.S. producers of rare earth elements to discuss federal intervention — from hammering out deals to setting price floors — for domestic projects aimed at countering China’s grip on global markets, according to a person in the industry familiar with White House activities.
White House trade adviser Peter Navarro, along with David Copley, who now serves on the National Security Council with a focus on minerals and supply chains, and Joshua Kroon, who is operating under the umbrella of the Commerce Department, are “leading the charge” and directing each agency at the Cabinet level to pitch in, said the person, who was granted anonymity to speak freely.
The person confirmed White House officials recently met with a host of rare earths companies on July 24 in Washington. The companies are hoping to hammer out deals with the federal government on the heels of the Department of Defense’s partnership with MP Materials. Reuters first reported the meeting.
The White House did not immediately respond when asked about the event.
