U.S. launches FORGE initiative to secure global supply chains

By:  Nana Appiah Acquaye

The United States has convened a high-level Critical Minerals Ministerial, bringing together international partners to sign new cooperation frameworks and formally launch the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (FORGE) Initiative, aimed at strengthening global supply chains for critical minerals.

The meeting, hosted by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, brought together governments and industry stakeholders from around the world to advance shared commitments to high standards, transparency, and fair market practices in the critical minerals sector. Under Secretary of State for Economic Affairs Jacob Helberg participated alongside Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary Rubio, and senior international partners.

The FORGE Initiative establishes a coordinated network of likeminded governments and companies focused on diversifying sources of critical minerals and reducing vulnerabilities in global supply chains. The initiative is designed to support reliable access to materials that underpin advanced manufacturing, emerging technologies, and the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence.

U.S. officials described the partnership as a decisive step toward building more resilient, secure, and transparent critical minerals markets, reinforcing international cooperation in a sector increasingly central to economic competitiveness and technological leadership.