U.S. Interior Secretary Doug Burgum emphasized the strategic importance of critical minerals during a February 3, 2026, event hosted by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS), calling for the creation of a U.S.-led “club of nations” to secure global supply chains and reduce reliance on China.

“These talks are important because critical minerals are important to every American,” Burgum said, noting their essential role in everyday products such as smartphones, automobiles, and energy systems, as well as in advanced defense technologies. He stressed the need for allied nations to trade freely among themselves to ensure stable, secure access to these resources.

According to U.S. Geological Survey data cited during the discussion, China currently dominates between 85% and 100% of processing for several key minerals, including gallium (98.7%) and rare earth elements (approximately 90%). Burgum warned that this concentration poses economic and national security risks, particularly in times of geopolitical tension or supply disruptions.

The Interior Secretary highlighted a coordinated, whole-of-government approach involving Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other senior officials to accelerate diversification of mineral supply chains. He also revealed that roughly 30 countries have already expressed interest in joining the proposed coalition, signaling rapid international momentum behind the initiative.

The effort aims to reduce vulnerabilities exposed by past trade disputes, strengthen allied cooperation, and ensure that the United States and its partners maintain reliable access to the critical minerals underpinning modern economies, energy security, and defense readiness.