The President of the United States, Donald Trump, signed an executive order on April 24 to promote the exploitation of the ocean floor, particularly the controversial extraction of critical minerals, a key sector for technological development dominated by China. The president ordered to expedite exploration and the processing of permits for deep-sea mining with the aim of positioning the country as a leader in this emerging industry.
"Vast areas of the seabed harbor critical minerals and energy resources. These are key to strengthening our economy, securing our energy future, and reducing dependence on foreign suppliers of critical minerals," according to the text published by the White House. The order emphasizes that the United States controls mineral resources in one of the largest oceanic areas in the world and has the right to access them, seeking strategic minerals such as nickel, cobalt, among others.
Furthermore, the order seeks to strengthen alliances to counter China's influence over marine mineral resources, ensuring that American companies can support their allies. Deep-sea mining is an emerging global sector, facing challenges due to environmental concerns over potential damage to marine ecosystems.
Trump's order adds to one issued last month, where emergency powers were invoked to promote the exploitation of minerals in the country. The provision aims to facilitate the granting of permits and provide funding to companies conducting critical mineral extraction projects in deep waters.
