This week, the U.S. Geological Survey released its draft 2025 Critical Minerals List, adding six commodities including silver and copper, while rare earths producer Lynas announced an equity raise to expand its processing capacity amid ongoing uncertainty around its Texas project. Meanwhile, Germany and Canada plan to deepen cooperation on refining and recycling technologies.
USGS Publishes Draft 2025 Critical Minerals List
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has released its draft 2025 List of Critical Minerals, which will guide future U.S. strategy, investment, and permitting decisions in the domestic sector. The draft identifies 54 mineral commodities, including six new additions: potash, silicon, copper, silver, rhenium, and lead. At the same time, arsenic and tellurium have been removed.
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Lynas: Equity Raise to Drive Expansion, Uncertainty in Texas
Lynas is the leading producer of rare earths outside China, and the Australian company intends to strengthen this position. To that end, it plans to raise fresh capital, equivalent to around $537 million. The funds will be used to expand processing capacities across the supply chain, thereby reinforcing the global supply of metals and magnets outside China. The outlook for the company’s planned refinery in Texas, however, remains uncertain, as Lynas noted in connection with the release of its annual report.
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Canada and Germany to Expand Cooperation on Critical Minerals
Germany and Canada intend to deepen their collaboration in the critical minerals sector. Chancellor Friedrich Merz (CDU) and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced during a meeting in Berlin that the two countries will sign a joint statement of intent. A key focus of the partnership will be on midstream technologies, encompassing the processing, refining, and recycling of minerals.
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From Gap Filler to Key Raw Material: 150 Years of Gallium
Happy Birthday, Gallium! Discovered on Aug 27, 1875 by Paul-Émile Lecoq de Boisbaudran, this rare metal is vital for chips, LEDs, and medical tech. With a melting point just above 29 °C, it can liquefy in your hand. Its strategic importance has grown, especially after China’s 2023 export curbs.
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