ASM Rare Earth Metals Shipments Highlight Non-China Supply Strategy

ASM(Australian Strategic Materials)

ASM Expands NdPr and NdFeB Deliveries from Korea

Australian Strategic Materials (ASM) advanced its role as a key rare earth metals supplier by delivering 10 tonnes of NdPr metal to Neo Performance Materials in Q1. The shipments came from ASM’s metallisation plant in South Korea. In April, ASM will deliver four more tonnes to Neo and 500kg to a European firm. As one of the few non-Chinese producers, ASM rare earth metals are gaining traction in the global supply chain.

Strategic Sales and Partnerships Across Regions

During the first quarter, ASM also supplied 400kg of neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) metal to Korea’s KMMI and confirmed a 100kg order with Germany’s GKN Powder Metallurgy. Discussions with additional buyers are underway, expanding ASM’s commercial reach. Meanwhile, development continued at ASM’s Dubbo rare earth project, a key source of feedstock for future metallisation capacity.

U.S. Interest and Geopolitical Tailwinds Support Growth

The U.S. Department of Defense invited ASM to submit proposals for funding a U.S.-based rare earth metallisation plant. These developments reflect growing U.S. efforts to secure critical mineral supply chains amid rising trade tensions with China. ASM publicly supports Australia’s proposed critical mineral reserve, aligning with broader Western strategies to diversify supply.

The Metalnomist Commentary

ASM’s cross-border shipments and U.S. partnership prospects highlight the urgency to diversify away from China in rare earth metals. As tensions rise, ASM’s integrated model positions it well for long-term relevance.