By Aluminum Association backs Trump memorandum on critical minerals supply
The Aluminum Association has welcomed a new memorandum from U.S. President Donald Trump aimed at securing the domestic supply of critical minerals and recoverable materials. The trade group said the move supports efforts to strengthen the nation's aluminum supply chain, and it is urging the Commerce Department to include aluminum scrap in any resulting policy action.
What the memorandum does
The presidential memorandum instructs the U.S. Commerce Department to use powers under the Defense Production Act to improve the availability of critical materials needed for manufacturing and national defense. Aluminum is among the materials expected to benefit from the initiative.
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Why aluminum scrap matters here
The association urged the Commerce Department to include aluminum scrap, especially used beverage cans (UBC), in any future implementation measures. It noted that growing exports of aluminum scrap are reducing the availability of valuable raw material for U.S. manufacturers.
The export controls, including a ban on UBC exports, would retain more high-quality aluminum scrap within the U.S., the group said.
What the association is calling for
The organization reiterated its support for a balanced strategy that expands both primary aluminum production and recycling capacity. Aluminum Association President and CEO Charles Johnson stated that increasing domestic access to aluminum scrap would help support American manufacturing, strengthen defense capabilities, and create greater supply chain resilience.
People Also Ask
What does the presidential memorandum instruct the Commerce Department to do?
It directs the department to use Defense Production Act powers to improve the availability of critical materials needed for manufacturing and national defense.
What is the Aluminum Association asking for specifically?
It wants aluminum scrap, particularly used beverage cans, included in any implementation measures tied to the memorandum.
Why is UBC scrap a focus of the request?
The association says export controls on UBCs would retain more high-quality aluminum scrap within the U.S. as exports have been reducing raw material availability for manufacturers.
Does the association oppose primary aluminum production?
No. It supports a balanced strategy that expands both primary aluminum production and recycling capacity.
Who commented on behalf of the Aluminum Association?
President and CEO Charles Johnson said increasing domestic access to aluminum scrap would support manufacturing, defense capabilities, and supply chain resilience.
