Trump’s Project Vault Gives US Critical Minerals a Boost

In a bold move to secure America’s supply chains and reduce dependence on foreign powers—particularly China—President Donald Trump announced the launch of Project Vault on February 2, 2026. This ambitious initiative establishes the first-ever U.S. Strategic Critical Minerals Reserve, designed to act as a safeguard for domestic manufacturers against market disruptions and shortages.

Modeled after the Strategic Petroleum Reserve, Project Vault aims to stockpile essential raw materials, ensuring that industries like automotive, aerospace, technology, and energy can thrive without the threat of supply chain vulnerabilities.

With a total value nearing $12 billion, this program signals a significant boost for the U.S. critical minerals sector, potentially unlocking new opportunities for investors and bolstering national security.

Understanding Project Vault: A Game-Changer for U.S. Supply Chains

Project Vault is a public-private partnership that combines a $10 billion loan from the U.S. Export-Import Bank (EXIM) with up to $2 billion in private capital.

The reserve will store critical minerals in facilities across the United States, providing stable access to these resources during periods of market volatility or geopolitical tensions.

President Trump described it as a way to “ensure that American businesses and workers are never harmed by any shortage,” highlighting its role in countering China’s dominance in mineral production and processing.

The initiative is expected to deliver a net positive return for U.S. taxpayers while advancing national security objectives. By reducing reliance on foreign-controlled supply chains, Project Vault strengthens the domestic industrial base and supports advanced manufacturing.

This comes at a critical time, as global demand for these minerals surges due to the growth in electric vehicles, renewable energy technologies, and electronics.

Which Minerals Are Included?

Project Vault targets a range of critical minerals essential for modern industries. While the exact composition may evolve based on strategic needs, initial focuses include rare earth elements, gallium, cobalt, lithium, nickel, and copper.

These materials are vital for producing semiconductors, batteries, jet engines, and other high-tech components.

For instance, lithium and cobalt are key for electric vehicle batteries, while rare earths are used in magnets for wind turbines and electronics.

The program aligns with the broader list of 50 critical minerals identified by the U.S. Geological Survey, but emphasizes those most vulnerable to supply disruptions from dominant producers like China.

By stockpiling these, Project Vault aims to mitigate risks from export restrictions or price manipulations that have plagued U.S. manufacturers in the past.

Will Critical Minerals Be Processed in the United States?

A key pillar of Project Vault is its emphasis on domestic production and processing. The initiative is explicitly designed to “support U.S. production and processing of critical raw materials,” helping to build out American capabilities in refining and manufacturing.

This means that while some minerals may initially be sourced from allied countries, the program prioritizes diverting supply chains away from adversaries and investing in U.S.-based facilities.

Processing these minerals domestically is crucial, as China currently controls about 80-90% of global rare earth processing.

Project Vault’s structure encourages the development of U.S. refineries and processing plants, potentially creating jobs and enhancing economic security. For example, it aligns with ongoing efforts to expand facilities in states like Texas, Nevada, and Montana, where new mining and processing projects are underway.

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Over time, this could lead to a more self-reliant U.S. minerals ecosystem, reducing the environmental and geopolitical costs of overseas dependence.

Investment Opportunities: Companies Poised to Benefit

The announcement of Project Vault has already sparked investor interest, with shares of several U.S.-based critical mineral companies surging in response.

This initiative not only provides a stable demand signal for domestic producers but also unlocks venture capital and private investment in the sector.

Here are some key players that investors might watch: