Congress Exposes CCP's Predatory Control Over Critical Minerals Market

Unveiling China's Market Manipulation Tactics

A groundbreaking bipartisan report from the U.S. House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), released on November 12, has exposed the extensive manipulation of global critical minerals markets by the CCP. Titled 'Predatory Pricing: How the Chinese Communist Party Manipulates Global Mineral Prices to Maintain Its Dominance,' the report details how China uses predatory practices to dominate the supply chain of essential minerals needed for everything from cell phones to military equipment. This investigation highlights a deliberate strategy to undermine American industries and jeopardize national security.

Committee Chair Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Mich.) emphasized the severity of the issue, stating, 'From cell phones to fighter jets, every American is dependent on minerals that China manipulates for its own selfish reasons.' He further warned, 'As we saw last month with its rule on rare earths, China has a loaded gun that is pointed at our economy, and we must act quickly.' These statements underscore the urgent need for action to protect American interests from foreign control over vital resources.

Impact on American Jobs and Security

The report outlines how China's tactics, including flooding markets with cheap minerals, have driven American miners out of business and caused significant job losses. By controlling prices and supply, the CCP has created a dependency that threatens not only economic stability but also the ability of the U.S. to produce critical defense technologies. The investigation reveals that these predatory practices are part of a long-term strategy to expand China's manufacturing sector and geopolitical influence.

Rep. Moolenaar pointed out the direct consequences for American workers, noting that these actions have 'caused Americans to lose their jobs' and 'driven American miners out of business.' The bipartisan nature of the report, supported by Ranking Member Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), demonstrates a unified concern across party lines about the risks posed by China's dominance in this sector. This consensus signals a call for robust policy responses to safeguard national interests.

Urgent Call for Policy and Action

With a hearing scheduled for November 19 at 10:00 A.M. in the Cannon House Office Building, the Select Committee aims to further explore solutions to counter China's market manipulation. The report serves as a foundation for upcoming legislation and policy recommendations intended to reduce U.S. reliance on Chinese-controlled minerals. The focus is on rebuilding domestic mining capabilities and securing alternative supply chains to ensure long-term stability.

The findings of this investigation are a wake-up call for lawmakers and industry leaders alike. As the U.S. grapples with the implications of China's control over critical resources, there is a clear push under the current administration to prioritize national security and economic independence. This bipartisan effort reflects a commitment to protecting American sovereignty from foreign economic threats, ensuring that future generations are not beholden to adversarial powers for essential materials.