Donald Trump

The terms “critical minerals” and “rare earths” are often used interchangeably, but they do not refer to the same substances. As outlined by the Energy Act of 2020, “critical minerals” are minerals and elements designated by the U.S. Secretary of the Interior as (1) essential to the economic and national security of the United States, (2) having a vulnerable supply chain, and (3) serving a key function in the manufacturing of widely used products like EVs, batteries, and magnets. 

The United States is the world’s largest source and recipient of direct investment. In 2022, cumulative U.S. investments abroad totaled approximately USD 9.3 trillion, while foreign investment in U.S. enterprises amounted to USD 12.3 trillion. 

Both President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump supported aggressive antitrust agendas that resulted in expanded court proceedings against private entities and broadened definitions of consumer harm.

The Quadrilateral Dialogue (Quad) is a diplomatic platform of interlocking leader-level and ministerial dialogues involving Australia, India, Japan, and the United States used for coordinating the provision of public goods to the Indo-Pacific. 

Throughout their first terms in office, both Trump and Biden pursued dramatic policies aimed at curbing strategic competitors’ access to U.S. technology and capital. Rhetoric from both administrations underscored the critical role of export controls in preserving U.S. national security, technological superiority, and strategic sectors.