Powering Security: Offshore Industry Welcomes Critical Minerals Executive Order
For Immediate Release: Thursday, April 24, 2025
NOIA Contact: jwilliams@nullnoia.org
Powering Security: Offshore Industry Welcomes Critical Minerals Executive Order
Washington, D.C. – National Ocean Industries Association President Erik Milito issued the following statement in support of the Executive Order, Unleashing America's Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources, to, among other things, establish an expedited process for reviewing and approving permits for prospecting and granting leases for exploration, development, and production of seabed mineral resources within the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf (OCS):
“This Executive Order marks a decisive and strategic step toward reshoring critical mineral production and strengthening America’s energy and national security. Demand for minerals like cobalt, nickel, and rare earth elements is accelerating at an unprecedented pace—and without urgent action, the U.S. risks falling behind. China currently holds a dominant position in the global supply chain for these resources, and our overreliance on foreign adversaries poses a clear threat to our economic and national defense infrastructure.
“Modern life—from advanced technologies to military systems—runs on critical minerals. Yet the supply outlook shows a looming shortfall. The U.S. outer continental shelf holds vast, untapped reserves—including many of the most vital critical minerals and all known rare earth elements. Fortunately, America’s offshore energy sector, anchored by the innovation-driven companies along the Gulf Coast, is uniquely equipped to lead in this space. These companies bring decades of experience in safely operating in complex marine environments and are ready to responsibly develop the resources we urgently need.
“This Executive Order affirms what industry has long understood: to secure our future, we must harness the full strength of our offshore capabilities. Doing so will bolster domestic supply chains, generate high-paying American jobs, and deliver the mineral resources that will power our economy and protect our security.”
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About NOIA
The National Ocean Industries Association (NOIA) represents and advances a dynamic and growing offshore energy industry, providing solutions that support communities and protect our workers, the public and our environment.
