Lynas Produces Samarium Oxide in Malaysia, Expanding Rare Earth Production Beyond China

Published: Mar 20, 2026 16:55

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Australian rare earth producer Lynas announced that its Malaysia plant had successfully produced samarium oxide, making it the only producer outside China capable of separating the three heavy rare earth materials samarium, terbium, and dysprosium. The company is expected to expand its product line to include gadolinium, yttrium, and lutetium over the next two years, and to add varieties such as europium and holmium depending on returns.

Recently, Lynas signed a $96 million rare earth supply memorandum of understanding with the US Department of Defense, and reached a supply agreement with Japan's JARE through 2038. Both deals set the lowest price for Pr-Nd at $110/kg. The company's rare earth oxide production reached 6,375 mt in H2 2025, up 19% YoY.

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