US and Australia advance critical mineral supply chain to counter China

The United States and its allies, including Australia, are intensifying efforts to secure critical‑mineral supply chains and reduce dependence on China. Strategies focus on three fronts: commercial support such as long‑term offtake agreements and price floors; technological development to overcome Chinese dominance in intellectual property and processing equipment; and coordinated diplomatic networks like the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement.

China’s export controls and its control of key technologies have prompted the US to fast‑track a domestic battery‑minerals supply chain. In Utah, the state has offered a $357.7 million incentive package to Anson Resources for its Green River lithium project. The package includes tax reimbursements, infrastructure assistance and potential support from the Utah Inland Port Authority, aiming to lower capital costs and boost domestic lithium production for batteries.

These moves are presented as essential to building an “ex‑China” market for critical minerals, supporting both economic growth and national‑security objectives.