In the pursuit of raw materials independence. A comparative analysis of Donald Trump and Joe Biden policies towards rare earth elements

Abstract

The main aim of the presented article is to find similarities and differences in the approach to the strategic role of rare earth elements during the presidencies of Donald Trump and Joe Biden in the United States of America. Rare earth elements are the core instruments of modern technological development in many areas and fields – both civil and military. Due to their growing importance, they have been the object of political rivalry between the People’s Republic of China and the United States of America for at least twenty years. The increasing global demand for rare earth elements and their strategic importance in various industries has highlighted the issue of the approach of political leaders to these critical minerals, espiecialy when it comes to ensuring secure and sustainable supply chain. The research problem of the considerations undertaken in this article is to assess implications and effectiveness of Donald Trump and Joe Biden Policies towards rare earth elements. The research shows that while both administrations recognized the significance of rare earth elements, their approaches differed in terms of priorities, strategies, and emphasis on environmental sustainability.