Recently, U.S. government researchers traveled to a South Korean mine to evaluate the progress being made towards increasing the supply of tungsten from sources outside of China. The Sangdong Mine, owned by a subsidiary of Almonty Industries based in Canada, is expected to resume operations this year. Tungsten, an essential metal used in the production of weapons, semiconductors, and industrial cutting machines, is currently dominated by China, accounting for over 80% of the metal’s supply chain. Almonty Industries claims that the Sangdong Mine has the potential to produce up to 50% of the world’s tungsten supply, reducing reliance on Chinese sources.
The United States has not engaged in commercial tungsten mining since 2015, as reported by the U.S. Geological Survey. To address the critical mineral supply chain issue, four mineral resource scholars, led by Sean Xun from the National Minerals Information Center, visited the Sangdong Mine for assessment. The U.S. Geological Survey plans to provide a comprehensive update on the mine in its 2025 report, emphasizing the importance of diversifying mineral sources outside of China.
The Biden administration has recognized the significance of critical minerals and has implemented tariffs on tungsten and other minerals to enhance national security. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the U.S. was entirely dependent on foreign sources for 13 out of 35 critical mineral commodities in 2019. Almonty Industries has committed to investing a minimum of $125 million in reopening the Sangdong Mine, which has been inactive since the 1990s. This initiative aims to reduce the country’s vulnerability to supply chain disruptions from China.
China’s control over the global critical mineral supply chain has raised concerns among Western nations. Recent actions by China, such as limiting exports of metals like antimony, have prompted expectations of further restrictions on tungsten. Analysts have suggested that Beijing could leverage export controls on critical minerals in response to trade disputes and geopolitical tensions. The U.S. Energy Department has already allocated substantial grants to support domestic mining and processing of critical minerals, signaling a strategic shift away from dependence on Chinese supplies.
The strategic importance of diversifying sources of critical minerals, particularly tungsten, has become a focal point for government agencies, industry stakeholders, and policymakers. The uncertainty surrounding China’s export policies and their potential impact on global supply chains has prompted Western nations to accelerate efforts to reduce reliance on Chinese resources. As geopolitical tensions persist and trade relations evolve, the availability of critical minerals from diverse and sustainable sources will play a crucial role in shaping economic competitiveness and national security strategies.