U.S. President Donald Trump has signed an order granting federal authorities the power to restrict exports of electronic waste and other discarded materials containing critical minerals, according to White House officials.

The measure is part of a broader effort by Washington to strengthen domestic recycling capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains, particularly China, for minerals considered essential to national security and advanced industries.

The new directive gives officials the authority to limit overseas shipments of used batteries and other mineral-rich waste products containing strategic materials such as lithium and tungsten.

The administration argues that retaining these resources within the United States could help develop domestic recycling networks and secure supplies of minerals needed for technology, energy and defense sectors.

The decision comes as Washington continues efforts to reduce its reliance on China, which plays a dominant role in global critical mineral processing and supply chains.

The restrictions are aimed at ensuring that valuable recoverable materials remain available for U.S. industries and contribute to the development of a more resilient domestic supply system.

The measure highlights the growing importance of recycling as a source of strategic minerals. U.S. authorities have emphasized the need to expand domestic processing capacity and improve access to materials essential for future technologies.

The Commerce Department is expected to play a key role in implementing potential export restrictions under the new framework.