Only four to six new producers might emerge outside of China to serve the demand for rare earth metals over the next five to ten years, according to analysts at a rare earth conference in China.
The Metal-Pages(TM) Minor Metals and Rare Earth Conference was held in Beijing, China on September 13-17, 2011.
The main reason cited for so few mines is the relatively small demand for rare earth metals outside of China. Most of the major electronic manufacturing resides within China.
As MINING.com reported earlier, demand for rare earth is expected to fall as higher prices drive substition. A weak world economy will also take a toll.
Don Bubar, president of Avalon Rare Metals, said that the rare earth market in North America is so small that only the early movers, those who are mining and producing first, will win.
Avalon Rare Metals (TSE:AVL) is a Canadian mineral exploration and development company with a primary focus on the rare metals and minerals. Avalon’s primary asset is the Nechalacho rare earth element deposit in the Northwest Territories, Canada.
“Much of the recent research commentary published on the rare earths industry does not discuss the importance of early mover advantage to the business opportunity nor highlight it as a risk factor for investors,” said Bubar in an interview with BNN.
Bubar considers that an advanced project must have a positive pre-feasibility completed.
5 Comments
Purplenews
what about Northern Minerals (ASX NTU) in Australia? They have had several ASX announcements lately on their high grade rare earth finds. Australia could be the next international source of rare earths.
Djc
Northern Minerals doesnt have a resource, let alone a positive pre-feasibility study
Smithgf398
Take a look at Stans Energy – HRE.V. They will be in production next year…..
Azeuaragaen
Some REE is worth more than others . First mover , OK ! High % Dy , EU , TB , PR , TM is still a definite Plus . HREEF may slip right past the junior cycle moving on as they . Stans looks to have a good batch of Rare Rare Earth Elements and if they hit the benchmarks and if and if …. They could be in big time deal .
Mrmrmrmr
Arafura Resources has just recently announced their studies along with their presentation on the Nolan’s project. Interesting project and great to see for this region. Experienced management and a sound and realistic approach that is looking promising. http://www.arafuraresources.com.au/ happy to read what your thoughts are on this project and at the same time I must declare that I recently bought some stock as they went very cheap with some ‘play/chance money – e.g. money I can well afford to lose’ – reason I mention this is because I don’t like people who blog about companies etc., without clearly stating their position and possible financial gain. Regardless – look forward to hearing your thoughts.
MR