The Governments of the United States and the United Kingdom signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen the supply of critical minerals and rare earths essential for advanced technologies and defense industries.

Under the MoU, both countries commit to accelerating secure supply chains through coordinated economic policies, investment support, and the use of existing domestic mining and processing capacities. Joint efforts will include identifying priority projects, providing financing, developing new mechanisms to strengthen supply chains, and sharing information on significant investment activity.

The agreement also outlines measures to streamline permitting processes, ensure fair pricing, manage asset sales on national security grounds, promote recycling technology, and cooperate with international partners. Geological mapping will be conducted in both countries and other selected locations to support diversified supply chains.

A Mining, Minerals, and Metals Investment Ministerial is planned within 180 days to promote investment. The MoU is non-binding, operative upon signature, and may be discontinued by written notice from either party.