U.S. Seeks Domestic Tungsten Supply Amid China's Dominance
The U.S. Geological Survey reports that in 2025, China produced approximately 79% of the world’s tungsten, with no domestic production from the United States since 2015. In response to this reliance on foreign supply and national security concerns, new regulations under DFARS will expand restrictions starting January 1, 2027, limiting tungsten imports from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea at earlier stages of processing. A major challenge for U.S.-based mining companies is securing both mineral rights and surface access in the American West. Federal lode claims are often separate from privately owned land above them, requiring complex negotiations that delay project timelines. This issue has stalled many technically viable projects before they reach permitting or construction phases. Tungsten prices have surged since May 2026 due to supply constraints and China’s decision in December 2025 to limit exports to only 15 firms for the next two years, increasing pressure on companies with permits and agreements already secured.
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Topics: DFARS regulation mineral rights tungsten U.S. mining policy