Apple is reportedly set to announce a significant investment of $500 million in MP Materials, the sole operating rare earth mine in the United States. This partnership will enable Apple to acquire rare earth magnets manufactured at MP Materials’ facility in Texas, a move that is being hailed as a major step in enhancing domestic supply chains, particularly in the realm of national security as emphasized by the Trump administration.
The agreement is also set to encompass the establishment of a new recycling facility in Mountain Pass, California. This facility will focus on reprocessing materials from used electronics, allowing Apple to incorporate these reclaimed resources into future products. Additionally, a new factory will be built in Fort Worth, Texas, dedicated to the production of magnets for Apple and other global electronics.
A senior White House official praised the deal, describing it as a notable win for the administration, highlighting the foresight shown in prioritizing domestic rare earth mining. The collaboration is expected to benefit American workers and stimulate business growth, encouraging other companies to consider similar investments in the domestic supply chain.
This announcement follows the Department of Defense’s announcement of a $400 million investment in MP Materials as part of a broader initiative to establish a self-sufficient rare earth magnet supply chain in the U.S. Currently, China dominates the production and processing of critical minerals, responsible for approximately 60% and 90% of the global supply, respectively.
In a related context, this partnership aligns with President Trump’s earlier efforts to boost U.S. mineral production through executive orders aimed at reducing foreign dependency and improving national security measures. This agreement signifies a proactive approach toward self-sustainability in critical resources, potentially fortifying the U.S. position in the global market for rare earth materials.
This investment not only supports the economy but also plays a crucial role in reducing reliance on foreign sources, paving the way for a more secure and independent infrastructure in technology manufacturing. The collaboration exemplifies the importance of private-public partnerships in addressing key national priorities.