Australia rushes to finalise billion-dollar minerals deal with the U.S.

Australia seeks a $1.2 billion minerals deal with the U.S. to reduce reliance on China ahead of Albanese-Trump talks.

Australia is racing to secure a landmark critical minerals deal with the United States ahead of Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s upcoming meeting with President Donald Trump. The agreement, worth an estimated $1.2 billion, aims to strengthen supply chains and reduce both nations’ reliance on China’s mineral dominance.

The deal would see Australia establish a strategic reserve of rare earths, backed by U.S. investment and government funding. Australian miners are being consulted on potential price floors and financing models that could redefine the future of the country’s resources sector.

However, questions remain over the economic risks. Analysts warn that introducing price controls and heavy government intervention could have unintended consequences, especially if China retaliates with tariffs or production cuts. The deal could reshape global competition for critical minerals essential to defence, energy, and technology industries.

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