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US Bans E-Waste Exports to Secure Critical Minerals
31 Jul
Summary
- Federal officials can now block export of old batteries and e-waste.
- The order aims to boost domestic recycling efforts nationwide.
- It counters China's influence over vital national security materials.
In a significant move to bolster national security and domestic industry, U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Thursday, July 30, 2026. This order grants federal officials the authority to prohibit the export of electronic waste, including old batteries, which are rich in critical minerals.
The presidential determination specifically allows the Commerce Department to establish regulations that will halt the overseas shipment of such materials. This practice of exporting e-waste is currently common but is now targeted by the administration.
The broader objective behind this initiative is to stimulate domestic recycling efforts and to decrease China's significant control over the global supply of materials vital to U.S. national security and technological advancement.
