Lindian Resources advances rare earth production in Malawi

Lindian Resources Limited is advancing its Kangankunde Rare Earth Project in Malawi, moving toward first production targeted for the fourth quarter of this year. The Australian-listed company has already stockpiled 125,000 tonnes of ore at the site to support the upcoming plant start-up.

To increase the value of Malawi’s mineral exports, Lindian has signed a technology and engineering services agreement with the French firm Carester. This partnership aims to develop an oxide separation facility to produce magnet-quality rare earth oxides and carbonates, which are essential for electric vehicles, renewable energy, and defense industries. The deal also includes a long-term off-take agreement for up to 20 years, providing Carester with priority access to mixed heavy rare earths.

The project is providing significant local economic impact, with Malawians comprising over 85 percent of the direct workforce and more than 3,000 people employed in broader construction activities. Malawi’s Minister of Mining, Thoko Tembo, recently visited the site to inspect the progress of the mining operations.