Minerals Drive Domestic Manufacturing’s Comeback

Today, the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM) kicks off its State of Manufacturing Tour, which focuses on the importance of manufacturing to our nation’s economy and the innovations that shape technology.

“Manufacturing has lifted the United States out of the Great Recession and is powering America’s comeback. National Association of Manufacturers President and CEO Jay Timmons will showcase the driver of America’s economic recovery, discuss current policy challenges and lay out the manufacturing strategy for American exceptionalism.”

One key component to the manufacturing sector’s success is our domestic minerals supply. Minerals and metals are essential, irreplaceable components of the modern technology that we rely on every day. Take just one metal—iron ore—as an example. Ninety eight percent of iron ore worldwide is used to make steel—making the metal vital to nearly every industry from energy and construction to transportation and equipment manufacturing. From advanced energy and life-saving medical devices to national security equipment, minerals are crucial to manufacturing all of these technologies.

In order for the U.S.’ manufacturing renaissance to reach its fullest potential, we need a permitting policy that promotes domestic mining and encourages economic growth.  Access to our abundant reserves base could supply the raw materials U.S. manufacturers desperately need, buttress our national security, and keep America at the forefront of global innovation. By ensuring ready access to U.S.’ resources will help the United States pioneer advanced technologies and power America’s comeback.

Learn more about NAM’s State of Manufacturing Tour here.