[INTERVIEW] Korea's tungsten mine could help US cut reliance on China, Tungco CEO says

As the United States attempts to decrease its dependence on China for tungsten, a crucial mineral utilized in semiconductors and defense systems, producers from allied nations like Korea may help alleviate the supply shortage, according to Cliff Nance, CEO of Tungco, a Kentucky-based tungsten recycling company. Nance expressed optimism about more production from reliable allies, stating that it could assist the United States in reducing its reliance on China, which holds a dominant position in the global tungsten supply chain.

He expressed his support for the U.S. procuring tungsten from the Sangdong mine in Yeongwol, Gangwon Province, where Almonty Korea Tungsten Corp. (AKTC) recently established production facilities. "Almonty's Sangdong mine is a positive development for both Korea and the U.S.," Nance commented in an interview with The Korea Times.

To break China's monopoly over tungsten production, it is necessary to increase production from trusted allies, with Korea playing a significant role. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, China is responsible for producing 67,000 metric tons out of the 85,000 metric tons of tungsten mined worldwide annually. In an effort to lessen reliance on Chinese supplies, the U.S. is exploring alternative sources.