#United States #Saudi Arabia #St. Louis #US Strategic Metals #NIDC

US Strategic Metals Partners with Saudi Arabia on Critical Minerals

On January 15, 2026, a significant collaboration was announced during the Future Minerals Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. US Strategic Metals (USSM), based in Missouri, has formally joined forces with the National Industrial Development Center (NIDC) under a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). This strategic partnership is set to deploy USSM's advanced multi-metallic refining technology in Saudi Arabia, marking a pivotal step in the global critical minerals sector.

A Game-Changer for U.S.-Saudi Relations

The MOU was signed by high-ranking officials from both organizations, including USSM's Chief Executive Officer Stacy W. Hastie and NIDC's Chief Executive Officer Eng. Saleh AI-Solami. This milestone agreement has the potential to transform the U.S.-Saudi strategic alliance, particularly in the realm of critical minerals, which are essential for various high-tech industries and national security.

With an investment plan reaching up to $1 trillion, this partnership aims to fulfill agreements established at the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum held in Washington, D.C. in November 2025. Here, key leaders such as President Donald J. Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman emphasized the need to strengthen ties, particularly in sectors critical to innovation and defense.

Innovative Technology for Production

Under the terms of the MOU, both parties will work on the construction and deployment of USSM's proprietary processing and refining technology, along with Ionic Rare Earth's capabilities in rare earth magnet recycling. This comprehensive initiative will create a state-of-the-art refining hub in Saudi Arabia for critical minerals and rare earth elements.

Feedstocks for this processing hub will originate from various regions, including Africa and Pakistan, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and high-quality sourcing. The processed materials are primarily aimed at the U.S. and its allies, highlighting a strategic focus on building a leading company in processing and trading critical minerals.

Strengthening Supply Chains and Security

“This agreement represents a critical advancement in the implementation of American technology in Saudi Arabia, which is vital for enhancing our national security,” commented CEO Stacy W. Hastie. By expanding USSM's operational footprint into the Middle East, the partnership promises to foster a resilient supply chain that ultimately strengthens U.S. defense capabilities.

Chairman of USSM Saudi Arabia, Ayman Sejiny, echoed this sentiment, recognizing the initiative as a cornerstone of Saudi Vision 2030. This vision prioritizes advances in mining, processing, and manufacturing, aimed at economic diversification and securing long-term value for both nations involved in this historic alliance.

About US Strategic Metals

Founded to utilize innovative technologies in the production of critical minerals, US Strategic Metals aims to become a major domestic producer of essential materials such as cobalt, antimony, nickel, lithium, and rare earth elements. The company leverages a team of experts and advanced processing techniques that emphasize sustainability and ethical sourcing.

USSM's facility in Fredericktown, Missouri, stands as a testament to its commitment to serving both U.S. and global markets, reflecting a larger trend towards resource independence and exploitation of domestic materials in the critical minerals sector.

In conclusion, the partnership between US Strategic Metals and the National Industrial Development Center of Saudi Arabia not only signifies a leap forward in critical minerals processing but also underscores a renewed commitment to productive international collaboration. As the demand for such minerals increases, initiatives like these will be instrumental in ensuring the stability and security of supply chains crucial for modern technology and defense industries.