Highlights the Need for Domestic Production to Ensure Resilience and Global Competitiveness
Washington, D.C. – Drew Horn, CEO and Founder of GreenMet, appeared on Bloomberg TV on December 24th to discuss the critical role of domestic production of strategic minerals in U.S. national security and defense. Horn emphasized that securing a reliable supply of these resources is essential not only for U.S. resilience but also for maintaining the country’s competitive edge in global markets. His comments come at a pivotal time as the United States seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign-controlled sources of critical minerals, particularly from China and Russia.
“There is no doubt that everyone knows a lot of critical materials are in China and under China’s control,” Horn remarked. “But I think it’s important to understand that this shouldn’t necessarily be seen as a threat. Rather, it’s a reminder that the U.S. needs to take a more active leadership role in this space.”
Horn pointed out that addressing the challenges of securing these vital resources requires common-sense permitting reform and the integration of foreign materials into the U.S.’s technologically advanced processing and metallurgy capabilities. He also highlighted the need for targeted funding to catalyze private market participation, which is already starting to grow in response to these challenges.
“The defense component of critical materials is probably the least understood, but it’s the most critical when it comes to protecting our national security,” Horn continued. “Everything from fighter aircraft, missiles, and satellite systems to space defense technologies depend on these materials. Unfortunately, we’ve been importing the majority of these from China, Russia, and other foreign entities that we simply cannot rely on for our national security interests.”
Horn emphasized that the U.S. has the capability to produce its own critical materials and provide solutions that are both economically viable and cost-efficient. “We have the ability to fill this gap with domestic solutions, and we can do it in a way that makes good business sense,” he added.
The discussion also touched on how the issue of securing critical minerals aligns with the policy goals of the incoming Trump administration, which is focused on reasserting U.S. industrial leadership and enhancing national security through greater self-sufficiency. Horn’s comments underscore the urgency of addressing this issue as part of broader efforts to strengthen U.S. competitiveness in the global economy.
Click here to see Bloomberg Interview >>
###