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After 30 years of closure, US antimony mine resumes operations to counter China's dominance of critical minerals

Written by Rafaela Fabris
Published 12/01/2025 às 14:26
After 30 years of closure, US antimony mine resumes operations to counter China's dominance of critical minerals
The antimony mine will help the US reduce its dependence on China for key minerals needed for technology, such as batteries and semiconductors. This will strengthen US industry and give it more control over strategic resources.

The reopening of the antimony mine in Idaho promises to supply 35% of US demand, create 550 jobs and challenge China's control over minerals essential for advanced technologies such as batteries, semiconductors and renewable energy.

The United States is reopening an antimony mine in Idaho that has been closed for more than 30 years. This strategic move isn’t just about economics or natural resources; it’s a direct response to China’s overwhelming control over critical minerals and their importance in the global technological and military landscape. But what makes antimony so special, and why is this decision so significant?

What is antimony and why is it so important?

Antimony is a rare metal with properties that make it essential in several industries. It is used in the manufacture of semiconductors, batteries and even ammunition. But its true value goes beyond that: it is fundamental for advanced technologies such as renewable energy and high-performance electronics.

China currently dominates the global antimony market, producing about 48 percent of the global supply. This gives the country immense power in strategic sectors. With China’s recent cut in exports of critical minerals, the U.S. has realized the urgency of securing its own supply.

The Antimony Mine in Idaho: A Strategic Project

China dominates the global antimony market, producing nearly half of the world’s supply, and uses this as a strategic advantage. By limiting the export of these critical minerals, it is influencing key industries such as technology and energy, putting pressure on countries that depend on these raw materials.
China dominates the global antimony market, producing nearly half of the world’s supply, and uses this as a strategic advantage. By limiting the export of these critical minerals, it is influencing key industries such as technology and energy, putting pressure on countries that depend on these raw materials.

The Idaho mine has a long history. During World War II, it was essential for supplying antimony and gold for the war effort. Since its closure in 1996, the country has opted to import these minerals, ignoring its own natural resources.

Now, the company Perpetua, backed by billionaire John Paulson, is bringing the mine back into operation. The reopening is expected to generate more than 550 local jobs and an investment of US$1 billion. In addition, it is estimated that the mine will be able to supply 35% of the annual antimony needs of the United States, significantly strengthening the local and national economy.

The clash between the US and China over control of critical minerals

Minerals have become the new frontier in the rivalry between the world’s two biggest economic powers. When the US imposed sanctions on Chinese companies in 2024, China responded by restricting the export of crucial elements including antimony, gallium and germanium.

This “mineral war” it's much more than a commercial dispute. It is a fight for control of key sectors such as semiconductors, electric cars and renewable energy. Reopening the Idaho mine is a way for the US to show that it is willing to reduce its dependence on China and strengthen itself internally.

Environmental concerns and local challenges

Despite the economic benefits, the reopening of the mine has also brought controversy. Indigenous tribes such as the Nez Perce have expressed concerns about the potential impacts on the environment, especially on the region's salmon population.

The US Forest Service has released a 154-page report detailing the measures to mitigate environmental impacts. Still, environmental groups argue that the risks may outweigh the benefits.

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Rafaela Fabris

It discusses innovation, renewable energy, oil and gas. With over 1.200 articles published in CPG, it provides daily updates on opportunities in the Brazilian job market.

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