U.S. invests in project to remove rare earth minerals despite differences with South Africa

PBS NewsHour
by Michelle Gumede, Associated Press
April 19, 2026
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2 min read

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The Bottom Line

The U.S. invested $50 million in a South African rare earth project despite strained diplomatic relations.

How This Affects You

This investment aims to secure critical rare earth minerals for U.S. advanced technologies, potentially impacting the cost and availability of consumer electronics and other tech products.

AI Summary

The U.S. has invested $50 million in the Phalaborwa Rare Earths Project in South Africa. This commitment comes despite U.S.-South Africa relations currently experiencing their lowest point in decades. The investment highlights the Trump administration's strategic interest in securing rare earth minerals, which are crucial for various advanced technologies. This move demonstrates the White House's prioritization of mineral supply chain resilience even amidst diplomatic tensions with key nations.

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