Kelly highlights importance of securing critical minerals and supply chains to combat China

Image September 2, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, during a full Ways & Means Committee hearing, U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the Ways & Means Subcommittee on Tax, reinforced the need for the United States to establish strategic partnerships to secure critical minerals and other natural resources to combat China. Kelly also emphasized the need to incentivize domestic mining capacity. "The United States is in a race to secure critical minerals, which are essential for economic competitiveness both for today and for years to come," said Rep. Kelly. "It is imperative that China not have a monopoly on critical minerals. Strong partnerships with our allies will create a stronger and safer America." You can WATCH and DOWNLOAD Rep. Kelly's statements during today's hearing here. BACKGROUND China holds dominant control over global production and processing for many minerals, producing 30 of the 44 U.S.-designated critical minerals and accounting for more than 90 percent of global processing of several critical minerals. Today, China controls roughly 70 percent of rare earth mining production and 90 percent of processing and refining capacity. In December 2024, China implemented export bans on antimony, gallium, and germanium, expanding existing export restrictions that were put in place in December 2023 on certain strategic materials, technologies, and equipment in the “Catalogue of Technologies Prohibited and Restricted from Export in China.” Export restrictions only applied to the United States. For most critical minerals, the United States has been heavily reliant on foreign sources for its consumption requirements. Ongoing global conflicts, illicit trade, and unreliable supplies all amplify the urgency of securing these resources. Issues : Tax Reform, Small Business, & The Economy