Why has Trump exempted natural graphite (and not synthetic graphite) from tariffs?
Clearly, it is because the US does not produce any natural graphite, therefore they are 100% reliant on imports. The US defense cannot access Chinese graphite under the current export bans.
"US tariffs on minerals such as graphite could further hinder the US ability to access materials that are already subject to China export ban." (
Bloomberg)
The Australian then reported that "the Trump administration is considering a tariff deal with Canberra that would incorporate a critical minerals agreement."
And now Albanese wants to process critical minerals in Australia, and establish a critical minerals reserve which will be announced in the next few weeks.
Trump wants our graphite.
(20min delay)