"Xianhua Lan-Niobate: 29th New Mineral Discovered in World's Largest Rare Earth Deposit"

[SMM Rare Earth News Flash] The US and India signed a bilateral critical minerals framework agreement in New Delhi, aiming to establish a strategic partnership for supply chain security in mining and processing. The agreement was signed by US Secretary of State Rubio and Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar during the Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting, covering the entire chain including mining, processing, refining, recycling, and joint financing. The agreement was based on the "Forum for Resource Geostrategic Engagement" (FORGE) launched in February 2026, aiming to reduce dependence on a single source. India possesses over 13 million mt of monazite rare earth resources and is accelerating the enhancement of its processing capabilities.

[SMM Rare Earth News Flash] ASX-listed American Rare Earths announced that it has commenced its 2026 exploration drilling program at the Cowboy State mine area of the Halleck Creek rare earth project in Wyoming. The drilling is at feasibility study level, focusing on the Red Mountain target area with low-cost open-pit mining potential, aimed at providing data support for the definitive feasibility study. The company commissioned Boart Longyear to drill a total of 3,050 meters (10,000 feet) across 19 drill holes, with completion expected by mid-July. Dahrouge Geological Consulting will be responsible for on-site geological logging and sample preparation.