Trump's Project Vault: $12 Billion Initiative Targeting Argentine Lithium Supply
STRATEGIC MINERALS
Project Vault, launched by Donald Trump, aims to establish a strategic reserve of critical minerals, with a $12 billion fund. The US Geological Survey confirmed that Argentina and Chile provide 97% of US lithium imports.
Global lithium production increased by 31% in 2025, driven by electric vehicle demand. Argentina's lithium production surged from 13,800 tons in 2024 to 23,000 tons in 2025. The USGS highlighted that Argentina and Chile control 36% of global lithium reserves, positioning them strategically against China's processing dominance.
Feb 15, 2026, 9:34 AM
