The US is exploring ways to increase its access to Venezuela's minerals, including gold, as part of a broader effort to expand involvement in the South American country's resource sectors, according to three sources familiar with internal discussions, reported Reuters.
The move follows involvement in Venezuela's oil industry and could open the door to further US investment in mining and critical minerals.
Sources, who requested anonymity, said the US administration has considered a range of options to facilitate investment by US companies in Venezuela's mining sector.
Among the steps under review is an executive order focused on critical minerals, although the order remains in draft form and could be revised.
Officials have also met with representatives from US mineral companies to assess interest in Venezuelan mining resources.