E.O. 14285: Offshore Minerals EO

Summary

Speeds up the process for finding and using important minerals from the ocean floor to make the country less reliant on other nations.

What problem does this solve?

The U.S. depends on other countries, including rivals, for important minerals needed for technology and defense. This order speeds up the exploration and mining of these minerals from the ocean floor to create a secure American supply.

Who does this affect?

Mining and exploration companies
Defense and technology industries
Energy sector

What does this order do?

Speeds up mining permits

Requires a faster process for giving out licenses and permits for exploring and collecting minerals from the deep seabed and the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.

Maps priority ocean areas

Orders the creation of a plan to map important areas of the seabed to find resources faster, focusing first on areas near the U.S.

Partners with allied nations

Directs agencies to work with friendly countries to help them develop their own seabed mineral resources, creating opportunities for U.S. companies.

Supports domestic processing

Orders a review of rules to help build U.S. facilities that can process minerals from the seabed, using grants, loans, and other government support.

Considers use of national defense stockpile

Requires a report on whether minerals from the seabed should be stored in the National Defense Stockpile to ensure a secure supply for military needs.

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens national security

Reduces dependence on foreign countries for minerals essential for defense, energy, and technology, creating a more secure supply chain.

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Boosts the domestic economy

Creates new opportunities for American companies in deep-sea exploration, mining, and processing, aiming to reindustrialize and grow the economy.

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Counters China's influence

Aims to compete with China's growing control over global critical mineral supplies by developing U.S. capabilities and forming partnerships with allied nations.

When does this start?

This order is effective immediately and requires several government agencies to take action within 60 days.

Agency action deadlines

Within 60 days of April 24, 2025, various government departments must speed up permitting, provide reports on industry interest, and develop plans for mapping and international partnerships.