Apple is making a major move to strengthen the U.S. rare earth industry by investing $500 million in MP Materials. This company runs the only operating rare earth mine in the United States, located in Mountain Pass, California. The investment will help build a stable American supply chain and reduce dependence on foreign producers like China.
As part of the deal, Apple will purchase rare earth magnets made in the United States. These magnets will be used in a wide range of Apple products, including iPhones and other devices. Apple and MP Materials will also build a factory in Fort Worth, Texas, to produce these magnets. Another facility will be set up in California to recycle rare earth materials from used electronics.
This partnership is seen as a big step toward national economic and security goals. U.S. officials have praised Apple for taking the lead in domestic production. A senior official called the move a major win and said it is good for American jobs, the economy, and the future of U.S. manufacturing. The official added that other companies should follow Apple’s example.
The investment comes shortly after the U.S. Department of Defense announced a $400 million stake in MP Materials. This public-private partnership is aimed at building a complete supply chain for rare earth magnets within the country. Both Apple and the government see this as a key move in reducing foreign dependence.
Currently, China produces around 60% of the world’s rare earth minerals and handles up to 90% of the global processing. This has raised concerns among U.S. officials, especially during times of trade tension. In early 2025, China stopped shipping critical minerals after the U.S. placed tariffs on several imports. That disruption sparked new efforts to secure a domestic supply.
President Donald Trump signed an executive order in March 2025 to increase American mineral output. He said it was necessary for national security to produce key materials inside the country. Apple’s latest move fits into this broader plan by helping to rebuild U.S. capacity in rare earth elements.
The new Fort Worth facility is expected to create many jobs and help grow the country’s clean energy and tech industries. The Mountain Pass recycling center will recover materials from old devices, helping Apple reuse valuable resources and cut waste. These efforts support Apple’s long-term goal of making its products more environmentally friendly.
Apple’s rare earth investment is not only a business decision but also a commitment to building a strong and secure supply network. The company’s action shows how private firms can work with public agencies to meet national goals while growing their own business.
With rare earth materials playing a key role in modern technology, the need for a steady and local supply is greater than ever. Apple’s $500 million commitment is likely to reshape the future of U.S. manufacturing and influence how other companies think about sourcing critical materials.
