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Minerals – South Korea is set to head a newly formed international initiative designed to strengthen collaboration on critical mineral supply networks, the United States Department of State announced. The move forms part of Washington’s broader effort to enhance coordination with global partners as competition intensifies over essential raw materials used in modern industries, including defense systems and consumer electronics.

New Framework to Address Resource Security

The initiative, known as the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE), was introduced following the first Critical Minerals Ministerial, a gathering focused on improving supply reliability and expanding sourcing options for key mineral resources. According to officials, South Korea will chair the forum until June, guiding participating nations in tackling supply challenges and advancing joint strategies.

In an official briefing, the State Department described FORGE as a platform designed to take decisive steps toward stabilizing global mineral markets. The forum is expected to promote cooperation among member countries by developing coordinated policies and supporting projects that strengthen resilient and diversified supply chains.

Building on Previous Partnerships

FORGE builds upon earlier collaborative efforts under the Minerals Security Partnership (MSP), which served as a foundation for joint work among allied countries on securing essential mineral resources. South Korea previously led MSP activities, reflecting its growing influence in global resource diplomacy and industrial supply planning.

Officials emphasized that FORGE will expand on MSP’s achievements by encouraging deeper engagement among governments and industry partners. The initiative aims to reduce vulnerabilities linked to concentrated supply sources while supporting sustainable and secure mineral procurement across multiple sectors.

High-Level Participation Signals Global Priority

The ministerial meeting that led to FORGE’s formation took place at the U.S. State Department and drew representatives from 54 countries along with the European Commission. South Korea’s Foreign Minister Cho Hyun attended the event, alongside senior officials from countries such as Japan, Australia, Canada, and India.

The broad participation highlighted the increasing global recognition of critical minerals as essential components in economic growth, technological advancement, and national security. These materials are widely used in semiconductors, renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and defense manufacturing.

United States Pushes New Trade Strategy

During the opening session, U.S. Vice President JD Vance outlined the administration’s interest in establishing a preferential trade framework aimed at supporting reliable mineral supplies. The proposal includes maintaining minimum pricing standards through adjustable tariffs while protecting markets from sudden external disruptions.

The administration has repeatedly emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation among allied economies to prevent supply shocks that could affect technology production and industrial growth. The proposal reflects growing concern about market instability and geopolitical risks tied to critical resource distribution.

Rising Concerns Over Global Supply Dominance

The formation of FORGE comes amid heightened attention to China’s dominant role in producing and processing several rare earth elements and other essential minerals. Many Western governments have expressed concern about overreliance on a limited number of suppliers, which could expose industries to potential supply interruptions.

Washington has intensified diplomatic and economic efforts to encourage diversified sourcing and to support new mining, processing, and refining projects in allied nations. The initiative also aims to promote transparency, environmental responsibility, and long-term sustainability in mineral production.

Strategic Implications for Future Industries

Experts suggest that improved collaboration on critical minerals could play a significant role in shaping global technology supply chains over the next decade. Reliable access to these materials is considered vital for maintaining competitiveness in emerging industries such as artificial intelligence, clean energy, and advanced manufacturing.

With South Korea leading FORGE during its initial phase, participating countries are expected to outline project priorities and policy frameworks that support secure and diversified resource supply networks. The initiative signals an increasing alignment among allied nations as they seek to address evolving economic and geopolitical challenges linked to resource security.