Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources

On April 24, 2025, President Donald Trump signed Executive Order 14285, aimed at accelerating the development and exploration of the United States' offshore critical mineral resources. This initiative seeks to bolster national security and economic growth by reducing reliance on foreign mineral supplies, notably countering China's influence, and strengthening domestic supply chains for essential minerals like nickel, cobalt, and rare earth elements. The order outlines streamlined permitting processes, encourages international partnerships, and calls for increased investment in deep-sea science and technology, potentially sparking legal and environmental debates over seabed mining practices and international jurisdictional challenges.