Post by S&P Global

Rare earth refining and separation capacity remains a critical bottleneck for West-backed projects, despite robust government support and rising commercial interest, Frontier Rare Earth CEO James Kenny told Platts, part of S&P Global Energy, in a recent interview. Frontier is advancing its flagship Zandkopsdrift project in South Africa's Northern Cape province. The project, comprising an open-pit mine and on-site processing plant, aims to convert rare earth and manganese minerals into high-purity chemicals for the rare earth magnet and lithium-ion battery supply chains. A definitive feasibility study is expected in the third quarter of 2027, with first production targeted for 2030. Read more: https://okt.to/9eQFXc