Dominican Republic rare earth deposits assessment targets a 2026 reserve declaration

Dominican Republic, Rare Earth

The Dominican Republic rare earth deposits assessment is moving into a quantification phase. The government says it will declare reserve size and geology by end-2026. US Army Corps of Engineers teams are supporting Empresa Minera Dominicana S.A. (Emidom) on mapping and assessment work, according to minister Victor Bisonó.

The Dominican Republic rare earth deposits assessment is also turning into a geopolitical test. Meanwhile, governments are competing for secure access to magnet metals and strategic inputs. As a result, the country is weighing partner choices under pressure from major blocs.

Pedernales exploration anchors the Avila reserve zone

The rare earth push centers on Pedernales, where officials flagged rare earth potential years ago. The government created the Avila mining reserve to support state-led exploration and contracting. Therefore, the Dominican Republic rare earth deposits assessment now has a defined legal exploration perimeter.

US technical engagement is expanding alongside local institutions. The US engineers have supported field studies and early targeting work in the area. Meanwhile, the state is building a governance framework through Emidom to manage future partnerships.

Supply chain stakes rise as the US and China compete

Rare earths power permanent magnets used in EV drivetrains, electronics, and defense systems. Marco Rubio has urged collaboration with trusted partners, not distant rivals. However, China remains central to global rare earth processing and trade leverage.

The reserve narrative will drive market expectations, so numbers will matter. U.S. Geological Survey estimates global rare earth reserves at more than 90 million tonnes of REO equivalent. Luis Abinader has cited an unverified figure of 100 million tonnes for domestic deposits. Therefore, the Dominican Republic rare earth deposits assessment must deliver defensible grades, metallurgy, and recoveries.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Early reserve headlines do not guarantee bankable projects. Meanwhile, buyers will demand traceability, ESG controls, and processing pathways. Therefore, Pedernales will need a full “mine-to-magnet” strategy, not only geology.