The Essential Minerals Association (EMA) is a U.S.-based trade association that represents companies that mine and process industrial and other non-fuel minerals used across manufacturing, energy, agriculture, infrastructure and technology sectors. EMA’s mission is to expand opportunities for the minerals industry through advocacy, education, research, and partnerships and to advocate for favorable regulatory, permitting and trade outcomes for its members.
Advocacy on federal and state mining and mineral permitting reform, critical minerals policy, trade and supply‑chain resiliency, environmental and water regulations affecting mining (including federal agency rulemakings), workforce and economic development for mining communities, and industry cybersecurity and infrastructure protection issues.
Primarily funded by membership dues from producer and associate member companies, plus event and sponsorship revenue and fees for coalition or program participation.
Formerly Industrial Minerals Association - North America (IMA-NA); partners and collaborators have included BSI Group and Wood Mackenzie; works with member companies (e.g., major industrial mineral producers) and government partners such as the Department of Homeland Security/CISA.
Trade association / membership organization
