# US and Italy Sign Critical Minerals MOU

The United States Department of State and the Government of Italy formalized a strategic partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) focused on cooperation in critical minerals. This agreement, announced by Secretary Marco Rubio and Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani, aims to secure essential raw materials vital for industrial competitiveness and international trade. The MOU underscores the importance of collaboration between the two nations to strengthen supply chains and ensure access to critical minerals necessary for various industrial applications.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should note the growing emphasis on securing critical mineral supply chains through international partnerships, which may influence future sourcing strategies and contract opportunities.
- The MOU signals potential for joint initiatives, technology sharing, and coordinated procurement efforts between the US and Italy in critical minerals sectors.
- Contractors and suppliers specializing in mining, materials processing, and industrial raw materials may find emerging opportunities linked to this bilateral cooperation.
- Agencies involved in industrial policy and trade should consider the implications for procurement planning, especially regarding supply chain resilience and strategic resource acquisition.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Energy & Utilities
**Topics:** Grants & Funding
**Published:** September 22, 2026

### Government Entities
- United States Department of State (DoS)
- Government of Italy

### Key Quotes
> It’s great to be here with Minister Tajani. He’s the deputy prime minister and become a good friend, and our two countries work very closely together. And we’re very happy and pleased to be signing this Memorandum of Understanding on a critical topic that we all know is being considered constantly on the issue of critical minerals, and Italy has been a great partner and one we continue to want to work with, so grazie.
> — Marco Rubio, Secretary of State

### Sources
- [Secretary Rubio and Italian Deputy PM and FM Antonio Tajani at a Critical Minerals MOU Signing Ceremony - United States Department of State](https://www.state.gov/releases/office-of-the-spokesman/2026/09/secretary-rubio-and-italian-deputy-pm-and-fm-antonio-tajani-at-a-critical-minerals-mou-signing-ceremony/) - DEPT