[SMM Analysis: Lynas to Build Heavy Rare Earth Separation Plant in Malaysia] Australian rare earth producer Lynas Rare Earths announced that it will phase in the construction of a heavy rare earth separation plant with an annual processing capacity of 5,000 mt at its existing production site in Malaysia, aiming to promote the diversification of the global mineral supply chain. The company plans to commence production of samarium at its Malaysian plant starting in April 2026. Over the next two years, it will gradually expand its product range to include heavy rare earth elements such as gadolinium, dysprosium, terbium, yttrium, and lutetium. The new plant will focus on producing separated yttrium and samarium. The total investment for the project is 180 million Australian dollars (approximately $119 million), which will be self-funded by the company, partly sourced from its recent financing of 750 million Australian dollars. Notably, this expansion plan comes just months after Lynas became the first enterprise to achieve mass production of heavy rare earth separation overseas (outside China). Lynas's expansion plans extend beyond Malaysia. The company is currently building a new plant in Texas, US, which is expected to produce 2,500-3,000 mt of heavy rare earth and 5,000 mt of light rare earth annually. Supported by the US government, this project is a key initiative in the company's global strategy.