Resources Newsletters Curbing Import Reliance through Permitting Reform

Curbing Import Reliance through Permitting Reform

Posted on February 18, 2026 by Minerals Make Life

What you need to know

  • The USGS released its annual Mineral Commodity Summaries, which shows the U.S. is 100 percent import reliant for 16 minerals and import reliant for more than half of 54 nonfuel mineral commodities. The new data underscores the urgent need for congressional action on permitting reform.
  • National Mining Association President and CEO Rich Nolan, along with John Downey, General President of the International Union of Operating Engineers, called for permitting reform to accelerate domestic production of minerals and reduce dangerous reliance on adversaries.

LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT AND CEO

Dear Friends,

2025 saw major wins and historic action to address mineral insecurity in our supply chains. Yet new USGS data shows that the United States became more heavily reliant on imports for minerals in 2025 than in 2024. The lesson: meaningful change will take time and executive action alone isn’t enough. Congress must pass comprehensive permitting reform to unleash American mineral dominance and secure our supply chains.

In 2024, the U.S. was 100% dependent on imports for 15 critical non-fuel commodities and at least 50% reliant on imports for 46 minerals. By 2025, those numbers grew to 16 and 54, respectively. This isn’t just an economic problem—it’s a national security threat. China’s mineral dominance allows it to control our supply chains, and it’s already using that leverage—restricting our access to key minerals several times in the past year alone. As China tightens its grip and geopolitical tensions rise, our vulnerability deepens. Every day of delay strengthens our adversaries.

2026 will determine whether the U.S. deepens its import dependence or breaks through to a new era of American mineral dominance. We have the resources. What we need is Senate action to clear the path. Passing legislation like the Mining Regulatory Clarity Act and the SPEED Act will allow responsible mining operations to move forward—unlocking domestic resources and supporting the industries that make up our national security, energy and manufacturing sectors.

Thank you,

Rich Nolan
National Mining Association (NMA)
President and CEO