Commerce Department Restricts Export of Critical Minerals to Bolster National Defense

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) within the Department of Commerce has issued a temporary final rule, effective August 27, 2026, to restrict the exportation of black mass and tungsten waste and scrap without a license. This measure, enacted under the Defense Production Act, is in response to a Presidential Determination finding that certain recoverable critical minerals and materials are scarce and vital for national defense, posing a risk to national security.