U.S. Critical Minerals Order Opens Opportunity for Armenia

A July 2026 executive order by President Trump restricting U.S. defense-related purchases of critical materials from China, Russia, Iran and North Korea creates potential economic opportunities for Armenia, according to analysis by The Armenian Weekly.

The order tightens regulations on molybdenum, tungsten, tantalum and high-performance magnets beginning January 2027, requiring defense contractors to exhaust alternative sources before seeking waivers. Armenia, which produced roughly 2.2% of global molybdenum in 2025 through its Zangezur Copper Molybdenum Combine, is positioned as a viable alternative supplier.

The development builds on a May 2026 critical minerals framework signed between Armenia's Foreign Minister Ararat Mirzoyan and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The partnership could open doors to American investment and technology transfer in Armenian mining.

However, the shift introduces complications for Armenia's relations with Russia, a covered nation under the order that has historically held significant stakes in Armenian mining operations.