American Tungsten Revived Idaho Mining Project
The company plans to reopen the historic Ima Mine in Idaho to boost domestic production of critical tungsten supplies.
Updated on Sept. 27, 2026 in Manufacturing
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American Tungsten has announced plans to resume operations at the historic Ima Mine in Idaho. The project aims to strengthen domestic supply chains for tungsten, a critical mineral for which China currently controls 85% of global refining capacity.
Why it matters
The federal government is working to reduce reliance on foreign-sourced critical minerals to ensure national security. New mandates require defense contractors to prioritize domestic or allied sources for these essential materials.
The project is estimated to provide 8% of U.S. tungsten demand, with full underground operations projected to last about 14 years. China currently controls the refining capacity for 85% of the world's total supply.
The players
American Tungsten
This mining company is leading the efforts to restart production at the Ima Mine in Idaho.
Donald Trump
As the current President of the United States, he issued executive orders mandating the domestic sourcing of critical minerals for defense contractors.
Brad Little
He is the Governor of Idaho who signed legislation aimed at streamlining the permitting process for energy and economic development projects.
The details
American Tungsten plans to first extract tungsten from surface tailings at the Ima Mine before shifting to underground production. The facility benefits from the Strategic Permitting, Efficiency, and Economic Development Act, which expedites state permitting for projects supporting energy independence.
Timeline
1959: The Ima Mine ceased active mining operations.
2025: Governor Brad Little signed the SPEED Act to accelerate state permitting.
July 2026: President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring domestic mineral sourcing.
January 1, 2027: Defense contractors must comply with domestic and allied sourcing requirements.
2027: American Tungsten expects to potentially begin sales from surface tailings.
Market Landscape
This project represents a broader push to localize mineral supply chains in response to the dominance of Chinese refining capacity. It follows a pattern set by the Strategic Permitting, Efficiency, and Economic Development Act, which prioritizes industrial independence through streamlined state regulations.
Residents near the Patterson area may see increased industrial activity and potential job growth associated with the mine's reopening. Consumers and taxpayers may benefit from the long-term stabilization of critical mineral supplies used in national defense and technology manufacturing.
The takeaway
The restart of the Ima Mine highlights the growing trend of reshoring critical mineral production to mitigate global supply chain risks. Successful implementation will depend on balancing these accelerated permitting processes with local operational requirements.
Further reading
Learn more about the ongoing changes in the sector on our Idaho Manufacturing page.
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Should the U.S. prioritize domestic mining for critical minerals over foreign imports?
