"Biden Permits U.S. Lithium Mines to Reduce Dependence on China's Core Minerals"

The U.S. Biden administration has authorized the development of lithium mines in the U.S. for the first time to reduce dependence on China in its core mineral supply chain, the AP reported.

The news agency said Australian lithium miner Iyer has been issued a federal permit for a lithium mining business promoted in Nevada in the U.S., with the goal of mass production in 2028.

Iyer expects the mine to have more than 20 years of lithium needed for 370,000 electric vehicles a year.

Lithium from the Nevada mine is expected to be supplied to Ford Motor Co. and Toyota Motor Corp.

The AP said the permit came as the Biden administration tried to stand on its own feet without relying on China for key minerals, and the Interior Department said the project was essential for future economic engines.

Conservationists opposed the mine development on the grounds that endangered wildflowers could disappear, but authorities determined the mine would not threaten its survival.