Critical Minerals Trade Security Act

The Critical Minerals Trade Security Act establishes a new position, the Chief Critical Minerals Negotiator , within the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). This role is designed to address the nation's reliance on foreign critical mineral sources, which are deemed essential for national security and economic resilience. The negotiator's principal functions include conducting trade negotiations, enforcing agreements related to U.S. critical mineral resources, and taking action against trade partners' practices. They will also lead the coordination of the USTR's critical minerals policy, consulting with the Secretaries of State, Energy, and Interior. A key responsibility involves submitting an annual report to Congress, starting in September 2026, reviewing foreign critical mineral trade practices. This report must identify practices that create supply chain vulnerabilities detrimental to U.S. defense, energy, and critical infrastructure sectors, or that violate trade agreements. Subsequently, the negotiator must provide a response plan within 30 days to address these identified adverse actions or vulnerabilities.