Critical Minerals: The Race for Strategic Advantage 

This conversation was part of the 2026 Meridian Summit: Shaping American Influence.

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The 2026 Meridian Summit: Shaping American Influence explored how critical minerals are shaping the contest for technological leadership worldwide. The expert panel included Congressman Ami Bera (CA-06), Dr. Alina Polyakova, President and CEO of the Center for European Policy Analysis, and Her Excellency Birgitta Tazelaar, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands moderated by Joe Quinn Executive Director, Center for Strategic Industrial Materials, SAFE. 

Critical minerals are not simply an industrial input, but a foundation of economic competitiveness, technological leadership, and national security. Through collaboration and strategic investments, the United States with likeminded partners can reduce dependencies, expand refining and processing capacity, mobilize private capital, and invest in innovation and recycling.  

Here are the Top Takeaways from the Program:

1. “IN ORDER TO BE RESILIENT, WE HAVE TO WORK TOGETHER.”

The challenge of closing the gaps in the critical mineral supply chain is one no nation can face alone. Limited domestic mining and refining capacity make partnerships essential to expanding capacity and access to resources. Congressman Bera’s bipartisan DOMINANCE Act advances this collaborative approach by emphasizing the importance of building refining capacity with allies, investing in energy diplomacy, and securing access to these critical resources.  

2. REFINING CAPACITY IS THE STRATEGIC BOTTLENECK

Rare earths are not necessarily rare, but the challenges to the critical mineral supply chain lie in refining and exploration capabilities. Today, China holds some 90% of the world’s critical mineral refining capabilities, and this is a strategic bottleneck. Alternatives to refining capabilities are necessary to reduce strategic vulnerability and dependencies.  

3. RESILIENCE MUST ALSO BE COMPETITIVE

Resilient supply chains must also be commercially competitive. Faster decisions, scalable projects, and closer alignment between U.S. capital and allied industrial capacity are essential for supply chain diversification. Working together to build foundations, not only for resilient supply chains, but also for a competitive infrastructure that supports economic security. 

4. “INDUSTRY HAS TO LEAD THE WAY”

Securing critical mineral supply chains requires private sector leadership alongside public. When democratic policymaking moves too slowly, the private sector can turn strategic priorities into actionable projects. Incentivizing investment in international opportunities, such as projects in Latin America, can further U.S. competitiveness in global mineral extraction spaces.  

5. INNOVATION CAN REDUCE LONG-TERM DEPENDENCE

Reducing dependence on rare earths requires innovation that both lowers demand for these minerals and recovers materials already in use. Technologies that use fewer, or no, critical minerals offer sustainable solutions while recycling batteries gives a medium-term opportunity as battery powered technology expands throughout the U.S. The Netherlands planned investment of 3% of GDP annually in research and development highlights the importance of supporting innovation in this sector. Similarly, Congressman Bera stressed reinforced this approach by looking to make commercial markets for recycling and investment in innovative approaches.  

The discussion, Critical Minerals: The Race for Strategic Advantage, underscored that securing critical minerals requires more than access to resources, it also demands cooperation, competitive refining capacity, and sustained private investment. From scaling start-ups to advancing recycling, innovation will be essential to reducing dependence and strengthening long-term economic and technological resilience.