Story perspectives

US Boosts Mineral Deals with Africa to Counter China

2/10/2026

Center

US Secures African Minerals

The United States is intensifying efforts to secure critical minerals from Africa, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Guinea, to counter China.
The United States uses offtake deals and state-backed funding to target cobalt and copper.
China currently controls a substantial portion of the DRC's mineral resources, and agreements seek a preferential minerals trade zone and a $12 billion strategic stockpile initiative.

Right

US Launches Mineral Reserve

The United States launched Project Vault, a $12 billion plan to establish a strategic reserve for critical minerals to counter China’s influence.
The plan seeks to address supply chain vulnerabilities highlighted by disruptions such as the 2025 car production suspension from China's export restrictions.
Experts warn that independence from Chinese sources remains challenging because China controls refining for 19 of 20 critical minerals, potentially straining Europe and other regions.

History

Historical Context

In 2010, the U.S. launched Project Independence to address its reliance on foreign oil, with over 50% of oil imports highlighting vulnerabilities in energy supply chains. Today, similar concerns drive efforts to secure critical minerals from Africa, particularly cobalt and copper, as the U.S. seeks to counter China's resource dominance, reflecting ongoing geopolitical tensions and the importance of resource independence.

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US Secures African Minerals

The United States is intensifying efforts to secure critical minerals from Africa, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Guinea, to counter China.
The United States uses offtake deals and state-backed funding to target cobalt and copper.
China currently controls a substantial portion of the DRC's mineral resources, and agreements seek a preferential minerals trade zone and a $12 billion strategic stockpile initiative.

1 / 3