UPAYA AMERIKA SERIKAT MENGURANGI KETERGANTUNGAN PASOKAN RARE EARTH ELEMENTS (REE) DARI TIONGKOK

This study examines the United States’ dependence on Rare Earth Elements (REE) dominated by China and the strategic efforts undertaken to reduce this vulnerability. REEs are vital commodities in high-technology industries, renewable energy, and defense. China’s control of more than two-thirds of global production raises serious concerns for the United States, particularly regarding the risks of supply disruptions due to geopolitical tensions, price fluctuations, and threats to both economic stability and national security. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method using library research, analyzed through the 4A framework (Availability, Affordability, Acceptability, Accountability). The findings show that in terms of Availability, the United States seeks to diversify its supply by optimizing domestic resources such as the Mountain Pass mine and strengthening cooperation with allied countries, including Australia and Canada. Affordability, the government provides incentives and financial support to stabilize prices and reduce vulnerability to China’s export policies. Acceptability, the U.S. develops environmentally friendly processing technologies to address ecological impacts and gain public support for REE exploitation. Meanwhile, Accountability, strategies are implemented through inter-agency coordination, transparent regulations, and international collaboration to secure and properly manage the supply chain. Therefore, this study emphasizes that U.S. concerns over China’s dominance drive comprehensive strategies that go beyond securing supply, encompassing economic, social, environmental, and governance aspects. These efforts are crucial to strengthening energy security, reducing structural dependence, and minimizing future geopolitical risks.