Ion-Adsorption Ore Sellers' Willingness to Sell Declines, Medium-Heavy Rare Earth Production Decreases in December [SMM Analysis]

SMM, January 2: In December 2024, the production of medium-heavy rare earth oxides decreased MoM, with the production of dysprosium oxide and terbium oxide showing particularly significant declines of 2.7% and 3.8%, respectively. In contrast, the production of gadolinium oxide saw a slower MoM decrease, dropping by only 0.4%.

According to SMM's survey, the import of Myanmar ore did not return to normal levels as expected in December. This situation significantly impacted traders holding ion-adsorption ore, whose willingness to sell generally declined. Traders might be observing market trends, anticipating more favorable selling opportunities. On the other hand, due to the continued weakness in rare earth oxide market prices, separation plants showed low interest in procuring raw materials.

Additionally, some separation plants plan to suspend production for maintenance in January, a move that will undoubtedly further affect the demand for ion-adsorption ore, leading to a noticeable decline in demand. The suspension of production not only means that these plants will not make new purchases in the short term but may also impact the supply-demand balance across the entire industry chain.

Considering these factors, the market generally expects that the production of medium-heavy rare earth oxides will decline MoM in January.

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