Trump Invokes An Act From 1950s To Boost Domestic Mineral Industry

President Donald Trump has invoked the Defense Production Act (DPA) to accelerate the development of the domestic mineral industry, aiming to reduce the reliance on imports and bolster supply chains.

By signing an executive order on Thursday, Trump used the DPA, originally conceived by President Harry Truman, to mobilize industrial resources for national security. The act allows the government to provide financing, issue loans, and invest in projects that strengthen domestic mineral production and processing capabilities.

"The United States was once the world's largest producer of lucrative minerals, but overbearing federal regulation has eroded our nation's mineral production," Trump stated in the executive order, clarifying the need to boost mining and refining operations as a national security measure.

His action calls for an expedited permitting process for domestic mining projects, which are