The intense interest in Liontown is “a really strong point of evidence” about the outlook, says Pilbara Minerals CEO.

World's biggest miners are inviting expressions of interest from technology providers, equipment manufacturers, reagent suppliers, startups and research groups across the globe.

Miner said it will need to look at ways to address lost capacity should its Malaysian plant be shut indefinitely.

The offer by Wyloo Metals, owned by Australian mining magnate Andrew Forrest, now expires on May 22, by close of trading on the ASX.

NMDC is also working on plans to export low-grade iron ore to China.

The Dartbrook joint venture is currently finalizing funding arrangements to meet future restart capex and working capital needs.

The purchased material will be used as feedstock for its Korean Metals Plant.