China now controls 90% of the global magnesium supply, a critical metal for modern warfare and industry. The U.S. last produced primary magnesium before its final smelter collapsed in bankruptcy in 2021. Without domestic production, American reliance on Beijing could lead to shortages by 2030.

Magnesium is essential for aerospace alloys, steel desulfurization, and titanium refinement. It impacts everything from F-35 fighters to beer cans. In 2021, Chinese energy rationing caused prices to quintuple, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities. Beijing has previously leveraged dominance over minerals like gallium and germanium.

China achieved this monopoly through subsidized energy, cheap labor, and lax environmental rules. They also dominate thixomolding, a process allowing magnesium to be injection-molded like plastic for EVs and drones. This manufacturing revolution threatens Western producers who failed to adapt.

The U.S. can reclaim leadership by reviving seawater extraction technology perfected by Dow Chemical Co. during WWII. The Trump administration plans to invest $3 billion in critical minerals. A national target of 200,000 tons annually by 2030 would restore independence and ensure security.