U.S. Seeks to Break China's Grip on Critical Antimony Mineral Supply

The United States is taking aggressive steps to secure domestic supplies of antimony, a critical mineral essential for semiconductors, military applications, and energy storage, in response to China's recent export restrictions. With China producing nearly 50% of the world's antimony supply and now limiting exports, U.S. national security and technological capabilities are at risk.

The geopolitical significance of antimony has become increasingly apparent as global trade tensions escalate. In 2023, China, Russia, and Tajikistan supplied approximately 80% of the global antimony market, creating a precarious dependency for Western nations. The mineral's strategic importance is underscored by its unique properties, which make it indispensable for ammunition, military optics, flame-resistant materials, and high-tech devices.

The U.S. Department of Defense has already invested over $439 million in building critical mineral supply chains and is supporting domestic antimony mining projects. The most promising initiative is the Stibnite Gold Project in Idaho, which is expected to produce an estimated 148 million pounds of antimony over its first six years—potentially supplying roughly 35% of U.S. annual demand.

Multiple companies are emerging as key players in this critical minerals race. Perpetua Resources, Military Metals Corp., United States Antimony Corporation, and Nova Minerals are all developing projects aimed at establishing domestic antimony production. These efforts are driven by dramatic market shifts, with antimony prices surging 250% in 2024 and currently trading at record highs between $39,500 and $40,000 per metric ton.

The strategic implications extend beyond mere economic considerations. Adam Burstein from the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy emphasized that secure sourcing of critical minerals is crucial to national defense capabilities. By developing domestic mining and processing capabilities, the United States aims to reduce vulnerability to potential supply chain disruptions and geopolitical pressures.

Environmental restoration and community development are also integral to these projects. For instance, Perpetua Resources plans to invest over $1 billion in redeveloping the abandoned Stibnite mine site, creating an average of 550 jobs in rural Idaho and implementing significant environmental improvements.

As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, these domestic antimony initiatives represent more than just industrial development—they are strategic investments in national security, technological innovation, and economic resilience. The race to secure antimony supplies is a critical test of the United States' ability to adapt to changing global economic dynamics and maintain its technological and military edge.