The $7.4 billion facility will produce critical materials for defense and tech industries, reducing reliance on foreign imports, including from China.
President Trump has secured the construction of a $7.4 billion critical minerals smelter and processing facility in Tennessee, set to produce 540,000 tons of essential materials annually for U.S. industries, including defense and semiconductor production.
In a major win for U.S. manufacturing and national security, President Trump has secured the development of a $7.4 billion critical minerals smelter and processing facility in Tennessee. The plant, which will produce 540,000 tons of critical materials per year, is expected to significantly boost U.S. self-sufficiency in vital sectors such as defense and technology.
The minerals produced at the facility will include gallium, germanium, indium, antimony, copper, silver, gold, and zinc — all of which are crucial for producing semiconductors, electronics, and defense systems. The facility is set to play a pivotal role in reducing the U.S.’s reliance on foreign sources, particularly China, for these materials.
The Department of War is reported to hold a stake in the venture, underscoring the strategic importance of securing domestic supply chains for materials critical to national defense. Experts have long warned about the risks of relying on foreign nations for essential minerals, particularly for technologies crucial to military and economic security.
The facility will not only provide significant economic benefits to the region but also create high-paying jobs and foster innovation in U.S. manufacturing capabilities. The plant is expected to be operational in the coming years, with significant investments in infrastructure and workforce development.
This facility is part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to strengthen U.S. industry and reduce vulnerabilities in critical supply chains. The president has emphasized the need for the U.S. to regain control over its industrial production capabilities, especially in areas that support national security.
The announcement has been welcomed by industry leaders, with many calling it a landmark step towards ensuring a more resilient and self-sufficient U.S. economy. Further details on the project’s timeline and construction plans are expected to be released soon.
