Memorandum of Understanding Between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of Malaysia Concerning Cooperation to Diversify Global Critical Minerals Supply Chains and Promote Investments

US-Malaysia Memorandum of Understanding to Diversify Critical Minerals Supply Chains

Timeline: Effective immediately, beginning October 26, 2025, with quarterly coordination meetings planned.

Summary: The United States and Malaysia signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance bilateral cooperation in developing secure and resilient critical minerals and rare earth supply chains. The agreement focuses on trade, investment, technology transfer, regulatory improvements, and capacity-building initiatives to support efficient and fair markets. It is non-legally binding and allows discontinuation by either party. Vanderbilt University may face opportunities and risks in research, partnerships, and funding linked to the memorandum’s objectives.

Key Actions: Vanderbilt should pursue international research collaborations, develop critical minerals-focused educational programs, promote technology transfer, conduct environmental impact research, and analyze economic implications related to the memorandum.

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