Enzi Stresses Importance of Rare Earth Elements, Secures Commitment to Reduce Dependence on China

At a Senate Finance Committee Hearing Tuesday, U.S. Senator Mike Enzi of Wyoming said that it is critical to the nation’s security and economy that it has a domestic supply of rare earth elements, which are used in electronics like computers, cameras and military equipment. Enzi said that while Wyoming is home to some of the highest grade rare Earth deposits in North America, the state does not have any operating rare earth mines, and America continues to rely on China for 80 percent of its rare earth imports.

During the hearing, Enzi sought assurance from Michael Nemelka, who was nominated to be a deputy United States trade representative, that America can reduce its dependence on China and find ways to use trade to foster a domestic industry. Nemelka said that he would make it a priority to develop the industry domestically and would work to protect America’s intellectual property and domestic agriculture in ongoing negotiations with China and other countries.