In a statement, Lynas said this is an important milestone and marks the transition from the commissioning phase to the first production and ramp-up of the facility.

As announced on October 24, 2023, Lynas was issued with a variation to its operating licence, allowing the continued importation and processing of lanthanide concentrate from Lynas’ Mt Weld mine.

“The Lynas Malaysia plant is currently being shut down as works to increase downstream processing capacity have been completed.

“Production is expected to recommence in January 2024,” it said.

Mixed rare earth carbonate (MREC) from the Kalgoorlie rare earths processing facility will be progressively introduced to the Lynas plant commencing late in the March quarter.

“It will be increasing as the controlled ramp-up of the Kalgoorlie facility progresses,” it said.

According to Lynas CEO and MD Amanda Lacaze, the company is delighted to have achieved its first feed on Kalgoorlie.

“This is an exciting milestone as we continue to expand our operating footprint and capacity to meet growing global demand for separated rare earth materials,” Amanda said.

The Kalgoorlie Rare Earths Processing Facility is Australia’s first value-added rare earths processing facility, making it a significant project for both Lynas and the Australian critical minerals industry.