Crushed magnets, containing magnet rare earth elements.
Magnet recycling streams and separated magnet rare earth oxides
The shift towards a secure and transparent Rare Earth supply Companies such as Ionic Rare Earths (ASX: IXR) are positioning themselves at the centre of this strategic shift. Ionic is actively countering the implications of a concentrated global rare earth supply chain by delivering ready-to-market magnets and heavy rare earth oxides through advanced magnet recycling, refineries, and the development of high-performance magnet production facilities. Through its UK subsidiary, Ionic Technologies, the company is developing a rare earth magnet recycling facility in Belfast focused on producing separated magnet rare earth oxides from recycled feedstock. The Belfast facility has been recognised as a ‘Strategically Important Project’ by the Forum on Resource Geostrategic Engagement (“FORGE”), and in January 2026, was issued a £12 million Offer in Principle by the UK Government as a cornerstone investment for an £85 million commercial scale rare earth oxide facility. This would be fed with only secondary materials such as permanent and pre- consumer magnets, and supply chain materials. The project is designed to produce 400 metric tonnes per annum of high-purity (99.5%+) separated magnet rare earth oxides, utilising Ionic Technologies’ patented long-loop recycling technology. This recycling process delivers high- purity rare earth oxides, with the flexibility to manufacture any grade required for next-generation permanent magnets. By focusing only on target elements such as neodymium, praseodymium, dysprosium, and terbium, this ensures products can be delivered rapidly. It also strengthens sovereign supply chains by reducing reliance on primary extraction and overseas processing, contributing to a sustainable supply chain for UK advanced manufacturing. This strategy aligns with broader UK and European policy frameworks that prioritise critical mineral resilience and sovereignty. More broadly, geopolitical tensions are reshaping global trade flows and investment priorities. Export controls and supply chain concentration have elevated rare earths to strategic assets, with governments and corporations seeking to establish diversity and reduce dependence on a single dominant producer. Over the coming years, projects that can deliver reliable, transparent, and secure rare earth supply are likely to command increasing strategic and financial significance in an evolving global landscape. n
highlighted the vulnerabilities that this supply chain concentration creates. In February 2026, China’s commerce ministry restricted exports of rare earth magnets and other dual-use materials to dozens of major Japanese companies, escalating tensions with Tokyo. The move included freezing exports to 20 companies and placing another 20 on a watch list, with the aim of curbing Japan’s remilitarisation and nuclear ambition. These restrictions highlight how export controls can be used as leverage in broader economic disputes. Similarly, a global race for Brazil’s substantial rare earth deposits is intensifying, with the US, China and EU all competing for access amid rising trade tensions. At least six mining projects are developing prospects in Brazil, with several companies reporting being approached by Chinese groups, including investment funds and carmakers looking to secure material. In line with this, Western governments are actively seeking to reduce reliance on these concentrated supply chains. The role of rare earth magnets in advanced defence systems, including missile and radar capabilities, makes this even more crucial, with policymakers prioritising diversification to ensure their defence abilities do not rely on China. Efforts are now underway to develop alternative supply routes, new mining projects, and invest in recycling technologies, to build integrated supply chains that include separation, refining, and magnet production outside China.
April 2026 | www.modernminingmagazine.co.za MODERN MINING 9
Made with FlippingBook flipbook maker