Trump’s divisive trade tariffs are increasing geopolitical tensions, with trading partners receiving hefty tariffs, some to the tune of 30%. In retaliation, China, which dominates 69% of the market share for rare earth mining, 92% for refining, 98% for magnet manufacturing, and 100% of heavy rare earths supply globally, has levied export controls on HREEs and related products, equipment and technologies, creating instability in the REE market. “With the supply-demand disconnect exacerbated by China’s manipulation of downstream pricing, we are now seeing the emergence of two distinct supply chains: one dominated by China, and another driven by Western governments’ strategic need to develop their own secure networks. In April 2025, China imposed export restrictions on heavy rare earths, ratcheting up further pressure in October, which has sharpened the focus of international governments on the development of rare earth projects. Given these factors, the outlook for REEs is extremely positive. As it is, there are increased inbound inquiries for other HREEs on the list, with the pricing for several HREEs on a steep increase since April 2025,” says Harrison. This bodes extremely well for those producing REEs and related technologies, including IonicRE, which has developed, demonstrated, and validated its processing capabilities for its group of partners. IonicRE to build commercial scale plant in Belfast ASX-listed IonicRE is advancing initiatives at its wholly owned UK-based subsidiary, Ionic Technologies, the refining and recycling arm of the business targeting rare earth separation and refining technology. Its patented technology offers first mover capability for individual magnet rare earth recycling – separating 99.9% plus magnet rare earth oxides (REOs) to enable the energy transition, electric vehicles, advanced manufacturing, and defence capabilities. IonicRE’s initiatives are the catalyst, enabling production of new material flow into the UK’s domestic supply chain. “The unique selling point of our technology is the ability to use a raft of different feed inputs – be it end-of-life magnets or pre-consumer waste – and convert them into the compounds required in the production of new magnets, metals, and alloys; a real differentiator in our business. This underpins our strong engagement
On-site at Ionic Technologies' Belfast Facility.
with several different parties, such as OEMs and supply chain partners, seeking access to our materials. A further benefit of our technology is that it has a 60% lower carbon footprint when compared to primary mined sources.” To date, IonicRE has successfully demonstrated the viability of its technology at its demonstration plant in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The plant produces high purity rare earth
February 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 33
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