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Trump Blocks Used Battery Exports, Tightens Defense Mineral Sourcing

7/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

President Donald Trump signed a July 30 order giving the Commerce Department authority to block exports of used batteries and e-waste containing critical minerals.
The July 20 executive order also tightens waivers, barring defense contractors from sourcing critical minerals from China, Russia, Iran or North Korea after Jan 1 2027.
The GAO reported that recycling batteries could cut copper, cobalt, lithium and nickel imports within two to three years and urged domestic recycling infrastructure.

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Story summary

President Donald Trump signed a July 30 order giving the Commerce Department authority to block exports of used batteries and e-waste containing critical minerals.
The July 20 executive order also tightens waivers, barring defense contractors from sourcing critical minerals from China, Russia, Iran or North Korea after Jan 1 2027.
The GAO reported that recycling batteries could cut copper, cobalt, lithium and nickel imports within two to three years and urged domestic recycling infrastructure.