This week, the ex-China rare earth market saw mediocre trading, with prices generally stable. Trading volume pulled back due to the summer break and export approvals. Geopolitically, the Malaysian parliament was reviewing the supply agreement between Lynas and the US Department of Defense, stirring domestic controversy. On the supply side, Lynas’ Q2 production rose 8%, but Pr-Nd output was cut and heavy rare earth production commenced for the first time; exploration projects in Namibia and California made progress. On the demand side, an institutional report noted that AI is becoming the third major growth driver for rare earths, after defense and electrification, and is expected to account for 3% of magnet consumption by 2030.

Trump's Executive Order Tightens Defense Rare Earth Rules, but US Magnet Supply Gap Won't Close by 2027 On July 20, President Donald Trump signed an executive order requiring the Department of Defense to phase out most waivers by January 1, 2027, that have allowed defense contractors to procure samarium cobalt (SmCo) and neodymium iron boron (NdFeB) magnets, tantalum metal and alloys, tungsten metal powder and heavy alloys, and molybdenum from "non-allied foreign countries"—namely China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. From 2027 onward, contractors or subcontractors seeking a waiver must submit a DoD-approved mitigation plan, prove the precise origin of non-compliant materials, demonstrate extensive efforts to source compliant alternatives, and lay out a timeline for removing prohibited materials from their supply chains. In parallel, the order directs the DoD to issue policy guidance within 180 days, pushing contractors to map critical supply chains "from raw materials to end-use products" and to begin qualifying domestic sources of critical minerals, materials, and components. The Real Weight of the Order: Closing Loopholes, Not Breaking New Ground To assess the order's true significance, it must be read against Section 4872 of Title 10 of the US Code, enacted in 2018, which already prohibited the DoD from procuring the above sensitive materials from "adversary countries," with SmCo and NdFeB magnets being the core rare earth items at stake. The problem was that, for years, America's domestic rare earth permanent magnet industry remained too thin to meet defense demand, so the DoD kept issuing case-by-case waivers to keep Chinese imports flowing legally. The actual teeth of Trump's order lie not in the procurement ban itself—the law already mandated that—but in shifting waivers from "default issuance" to "item-by-item strict review," with "inability to build domestic supply" explicitly ruled out as a valid excuse. White House trade advisor Peter Navarro put it bluntly: contractors can no longer claim they had no choice without having tried anything. Symbolically, this marks the Trump administration's push to move "de-China-ification of the defense supply chain" from slogan to enforceable institution. Why the US Is Now "Following China's Playbook" The most telling provision is the 180-day mandate to build a full-chain traceability system—a clear benchmark against China. Since the Rare Earth Regulations took effect on October 1, 2024, China has required mining and smelting-separation enterprises to maintain flow-recording systems. In February 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) circulated the Interim Measures for Rare Earth Product Information Traceability Management for public comment, establishing a rare earth traceability system jointly operated by MIIT, the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Ministry of Commerce, the General Administration of Customs, and the State Taxation Administration, covering the entire chain from production to circulation to use. Enterprises must upload product flow data to the government traceability platform monthly by the 10th of each month. Layered on top of this are the export controls on medium-and-heavy rare earth items implemented since April 2025, the "de minimis traceability" rule requiring licenses for re-exported products containing Chinese rare earth content above certain thresholds, and the whistleblower reward mechanisms rolled out in July 2026. Together, these form a closed-loop regulatory system of "quota—traceability—export review—anti-smuggling. The US requirement to map supply chains "from raw materials to final military products" is, at its core, an acknowledgment that any procurement ban is paper-thin without visibility into downstream flows. China has wielded its traceability system to make its rare earth leverage precise; the US is now forced to learn the same lesson. The Reality for US Defense: The Magnet Gap Cannot Be Closed by 2027 The market consensus that this ban carries far greater symbolic than practical weight holds up—and the root cause is the awkward state of US domestic rare earth magnet capacity. USA Rare Earth's commercial sintering NdFeB production line at Stillwater, Oklahoma, only began commissioning in March 2026. The company expects to reach a run-rate of 600 metric tons per annum (mtpa) by the end of Q4 2026, scaling to a combined 1,200 mtpa across two lines in Q1 2027. Even adding the planned 6,400 mtpa greenfield base at the Bailey Industrial Park in South Carolina, plus supporting projects such as MP Materials' NdPr conversion in Texas and Lynas' heavy rare earth separation plant in Texas, the overall progress remains in the "0-to-1" ramp-up stage. For context, mature magnet makers in Japan—Proterial, Shin-Etsu—each operate single-site capacities in the 2,000–3,000 mtpa range with deep technical moats, while China dominates global rare earth magnet supply and refining capacity. Annual US defense and high-end manufacturing demand for NdFeB magnets far exceeds the sum of all domestically planned capacity, meaning that when the waiver gate closes in 2027, domestic supply will clearly be insufficient to backfill. The heavy rare earth segment is even more precarious. MP Materials' NdPr oxide has yet to be effectively converted into metal and magnets in the short term. Lynas' heavy rare earth separation plant in Texas remains sluggish. Energy Fuels has spent heavily to acquire European magnet veteran VAC to expand heavy-rare-earth-containing magnet capacity, but short-term supply of dysprosium- and terbium-containing high-performance magnets remains inadequate, with feedstock still heavily dependent on Chinese or allied transshipment. Expected Impact on China's Rare Earth Exports For China, this executive order adds further uncertainty to the year-end 2026 extension of export controls and the issuance of general licenses. Considering the market adjustments following the April 2025 tightened controls and the gradual refinement of relevant legal and policy frameworks, the probability of a repeat of the aggressive April 2025 restrictions is relatively low. However, total NdFeB export volumes in 2026 are likely to take a hit. In the medium-to-long term, US "de-China-ification" will advance along two tracks: one is the "mine-to-magnet" vertical integration model exemplified by USA Rare Earth, targeting 10,000 mtpa of NdFeB capacity; the other is capacity expansion at high-end magnet bases in Japan and Europe (VAC, Neo, etc.). Both tracks point to the same reality—the US is spending 5–10 years plugging the magnet gap, but with rigid defense supply chain demand in place, the curve of declining dependence on China during the transition period will be far flatter than the political rhetoric suggests. One easily overlooked detail: the executive order explicitly excludes the US Strategic Critical Minerals Reserve (the so-called "Project Vault") and critical minerals produced by projects financially supported by EXIM or DFC from its scope. This effectively leaves a "back door" for the US—strategic stockpiling and federally funded projects can still be handled flexibly. This also confirms from the side that the order's true intent leans more toward "establishing rules and tightening accountability" than "cutting off supply tomorrow." Final Assessment Placed in the broader context of the US-China rare earth contest, this executive order is neither the decisive "decoupling" strike nor a merely symbolic political gesture. It is an act of institutional alignment —the US has realized that to hold equivalent leverage in the rare earth game, it must first build supply chain visibility on par with China's. But institutions can be signed overnight; capacity has to be ramped up ton by ton.

JL MAG Rare-Earth's July 15 investor relations activity record shows: 1. Please elaborate on the company's expected H1 2026 performance growth? JL MAG Rare-Earth responded: In H1 2026, the company's management upheld the annual operating policy of "adhering to compliance and integrity, staying customer-oriented, focusing on the magnetic material core business, building 20,000 mt of capacity on schedule, actively deploying embodied robot motor rotors, and scaling new heights." Through measures such as technological innovation, organizational optimization, digitalization, and lean management, while fully ensuring contract fulfillment and delivery to a broad client base, the company achieved steady growth in operating performance. The company continued to consolidate its leading position in the new energy and environmental protection sectors and actively explored emerging markets, with operating revenue expected to grow approximately 30% YoY. In the NEV and parts sector, revenue grew approximately 30% YoY; in the robot and industrial servo motor sector, revenue grew approximately 90% YoY, with small-volume deliveries of embodied robot motor rotors already underway. In H1 2026, net profit attributable to the parent is expected to be 400 million to 460 million yuan, up 31% to 51% YoY; deducted non-recurring net profit attributable to the parent is expected to be 370 million to 430 million yuan, up 57% to 83% YoY. In Q2 2026, net profit attributable to the parent is expected to be 210 million to 270 million yuan, up 43% to 85% YoY and up 7% to 39% QoQ; deducted non-recurring net profit attributable to the parent is expected to be 190 million to 250 million yuan, up 50% to 97% YoY and up 9% to 44% QoQ. 2. What is the latest progress of the company's embodied robot business? JL MAG Rare-Earth responded: Robots liberate human productivity and represent a key direction in the new wave of technological change, with broad industry development prospects. The company is actively cooperating with world-renowned tech companies in the R&D of embodied robot motor rotors and has made small-volume product deliveries. In addition, through direct investment or participation in industrial funds, the company is making strategic deployments in key links of the relevant industry chain to accelerate industrial synergy and commercialization. 3. What about the company's raw material supply and recycling layout? JL MAG Rare-Earth responded: The company has established long-term strategic partnerships with major rare earth raw material suppliers, including China Northern Rare Earth Group and China Rare Earth Group, and fully leverages the advantage of controlling Yin Hai New Materials to deploy upstream rare earth recycling business, building a diversified rare earth resource supply system. The company was an early mover in rare earth recycling in the industry and currently holds a 51% stake in Yin Hai New Materials. Leveraging the group's manufacturing system, recyclable materials such as magnetic sludge and off-cuts generated during production at the company's various plants can be steadily supplied to Yinhai New Materials for recycling and processing, meeting its production needs while providing strong assurance for the company's raw material supply. In 2025, the company recovered a total of 3,681 mt of rare earth raw materials. Yinhai New Materials has already generated operating revenue and profit contributions. In 2025, it achieved operating revenue of 195 million yuan and net profit of 50.5 million yuan (the above are actual operating results, excluding adjustments related to purchase price allocation). Currently, Yinhai New Materials has passed ISO 14021 certification, and its main products have received certification for 100% recycled content under international standards. 4. Please elaborate on the situation regarding the company's planned acquisition of a partial stake in Baotou Rare Earth Products Exchange Co., Ltd.? JL MAG Rare-Earth responded: In order to implement the company's development strategy and enhance its overall competitiveness, the company plans to acquire, through public listing and transfer on the Inner Mongolia Property Rights Exchange Center, a 9.24% equity interest in Baotou Rare Earth Products Exchange Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as the "Rare Earth Exchange") held by China Northern Rare Earth (Group) High-Tech Co., Ltd. According to the appraisal report issued by Northern Asia Asset Appraisal Co., Ltd., as of the valuation date of December 31, 2025, the total equity value of the Rare Earth Exchange assessed using the market approach was 239 million yuan, a premium of 27.86 million yuan over the net asset book value of 211.14 million yuan as of the valuation date, representing an appreciation rate of 13.19%. The estimated transaction price for the target equity is 22.08 million yuan. Rare earths are the core raw material for producing NdFeB permanent magnet materials. The Rare Earth Exchange serves as a specialized trading platform for rare earth (metal) resources. If this equity acquisition is successfully completed, it will further enhance the company's ability to secure rare earth raw material supply, strengthen its overall competitiveness, and consolidate its market position in the rare earth permanent magnet industry. The company will, in accordance with the principle of cooperative co-construction and mutual benefit, fully leverage its own strengths to assist the Rare Earth Exchange in becoming a national-level rare earth (metal) resource trading platform. This planned acquisition of part of the Rare Earth Exchange's equity constitutes a state-owned asset transfer matter, and the transaction must strictly follow the statutory procedures for state-owned asset transactions, including approvals and listing. The company will monitor progress and fulfill its information disclosure obligations in accordance with relevant regulations. JL MAG Rare-Earth's semi-annual performance forecast released on July 1 showed: Net profit attributable to shareholders of the parent company is estimated to be between 400 million yuan and 460 million yuan in H1 2026, up 31.17% to 50.84% YoY. Regarding the reasons for the performance change, JL MAG Rare-Earth stated in its announcement: 1. In H1 2026, the company's management adhered to the annual operating policy of "upholding legal compliance, maintaining client focus, concentrating on the core magnetic materials business, adding 20,000 tons of capacity on schedule, proactively developing motor rotors for embodied robots, and scaling new heights." Through measures such as technological innovation, organizational optimization, digital transformation, and lean management, while ensuring full performance of contracts and delivery to a broad client base, the company achieved steady growth in its operating results. The company continued to strengthen its leading position in the new energy and environmental protection sectors and actively explored emerging markets. Revenue is expected to rise by approximately 30% YoY. Specifically, in the NEV and auto parts segment, revenue rose by about 30% YoY; in the robotics and industrial servo motor segment, revenue rose by approximately 90% YoY, and embodied robot motor rotor products have already seen small-batch deliveries. 2. During the reporting period, the estimated impact of non-recurring gains and losses on net profit was approximately 32 million yuan, compared with non-recurring gains and losses (after tax) of 70.94 million yuan in the same period last year. 3. During this reporting period, due to A-share and H-share equity incentives and the issuance of H-share convertible bonds, related expenses such as share-based compensation costs and financial expenses totaled approximately 121 million yuan. No such expenses existed in the same period last year. A recently issued announcement by JL MAG Rare-Earth showed that, to implement its development strategy and enhance overall competitiveness, it planned to acquire a 9.24% stake in Baotou Rare Earth Products Exchange Co., Ltd. held by China Northern Rare Earth (Group) High-Tech Co., Ltd. through a public listing and transfer process on the Inner Mongolia Equity Exchange , According to the appraisal report issued by Northern Asia Assets Appraisal Co., Ltd., the total equity value of the Rare Earth Exchange assessed using the market approach as of the valuation reference date of December 31, 2025, was 239 million yuan, representing an increase of 27.8551 million yuan over the net asset book value of 211.1449 million yuan on that date, an appreciation rate of 13.19%. The expected transaction price for the target equity stake is 22.0836 million yuan. In accordance with the Shenzhen Stock Exchange ChiNext Listing Rules, the Company’s Articles of Association, and other relevant regulations, this external investment falls within the approval authority of the CEO. It does not constitute a connected transaction, nor does it constitute a major asset restructuring as defined under the Administrative Measures for Major Asset Restructurings of Publicly Listed Companies. In its 2025 annual report, JL MAG described its main business and product applications as follows: The company is a high-tech enterprise integrating R&D, production and sales of high-performance NdFeB permanent magnet materials, magnetic assemblies, embodied robot motor rotors, and comprehensive recycling of rare earths. It is a leading supplier of rare earth permanent magnet materials for the new energy and environmental protection sectors. Its products are widely used in NEVs and auto parts, energy-efficient inverter air conditioners, wind power generation, robotics and industrial servo motors, 3C electronics, low-altitude aircraft, energy-saving elevators, rail transit, and other fields, and it has established long-term and stable partnerships with leading enterprises in these fields both within and outside China. The company has been actively deploying in the robotics field: on one hand, it collaborates with internationally renowned technology companies on the R&D and capacity building for embodied robot motor rotors, with small-batch product deliveries; on the other hand, through direct investment or participation in industry funds, it makes strategic moves in key links of the relevant industry chain to accelerate industrial synergy and commercialization. Regarding the 2026 annual operating plan, JL MAG Rare-Earth stated in its 2025 annual report: The company's 2026 business guideline: "Adhere to legal compliance, uphold customer orientation, focus on the core business of magnetic materials, build new capacity of 20,000 mt as scheduled, actively position in embodied robot motor rotors, and scale new heights." In accordance with the company's business guideline and on the premise of legal compliance, the company will focus on advancing the following efforts: 1. Orderly release of capacity under construction. In 2026, some of the company's projects under construction will gradually release capacity. The specific release progress will comprehensively consider factors such as equipment commissioning and market demand, advancing the commissioning and ramp-up of new capacity in an orderly manner. 2. Continuous enhancement of R&D capabilities. 3. Continuous optimization of product structure. The company will center on client needs, continuously enrich the product portfolio for different application scenarios, and enhance the resilience of the product structure and client stickiness. At the same time, it will steadily advance the layout of projects such as magnetic components and embodied robot motor rotors, equip dedicated production lines and professional teams, and drive the upgrade of small-batch production lines to large-scale, standardized manufacturing and quality systems. 4. Continuous improvement of operational capabilities. 5. Strengthening capital expenditure efficiency. 6. Improving incentive mechanisms and shareholder returns. 7. Advancing ESG system construction. As for the risks the company may face, JL MAG Rare-Earth stated when introducing the risk of price fluctuations in rare earth raw materials: Rare earth metals are the main raw materials for producing NdFeB magnetic steel. China is an important global supply hub for rare earth raw materials. Wild swings in rare earth raw material prices will adversely impact the company's production and sales in the short term. Countermeasures: The company has built manufacturing plants in Ganzhou, Jiangxi, a major production area for heavy rare earth, and Baotou, Inner Mongolia, a major production area for light rare earth. The company has established long-term cooperative relationships with major rare earth raw material suppliers, including China Northern Rare Earth Group and China Rare Earth Group. At the same time, the company strives to mitigate the adverse impact of rare earth raw material price fluctuations on its operating performance through measures such as pre-purchasing rare earth raw materials based on orders on hand, establishing price adjustment mechanisms with key clients, optimizing formulations, and improving processes. Looking back at the price performance of Pr-Nd alloy in H1 this year, it can be seen that: : The average price of Pr-Nd alloy on June 30 was 905,000 yuan/mt. Compared with its average price of 735,000 yuan/mt on December 31, 2025, the increase in H1 was 23.13%. The annual daily average price of Pr-Nd alloy in H1 this year was 904,650.86 yuan/mt, compared with 529,559.83 yuan/mt in H1 2025, with the semi-annual daily average price increasing by 375,091.03 yuan/mt, for a YoY increase of 70.83%. According to SMM's price quotes, on July 17, the price of Pr-Nd alloy was 920,000-930,000 yuan/mt, with an average price of 925,000 yuan/mt, down 0.54% from the previous trading day. Currently, rare earth market prices are trending slightly downward. Focusing on the Pr-Nd market, Pr-Nd oxide futures prices declined, while spot market inquiries were sluggish. Affected by this, suppliers lowered their offers for Pr-Nd oxide. However, most industry participants remain confident about the market outlook and show a strong willingness to hold prices firm, resulting in a relatively small actual decline in oxide prices, with low-priced goods still scarce and hard to find. Metal market prices also slipped. New orders at magnetic material enterprises were poor, limiting their capacity to accept high-priced metals, with procurement mainly driven by rigid restocking demand, leading to sluggish metal market inquiries. The upstream-downstream stalemate persisted in negotiations, with the metal side continuing to face pressure. It is expected that in the short term, due to sluggish trading activity, Pr-Nd product prices will likely move sideways in a narrow range. Recommended Reads:

Overseas rare earth markets diverged this week between light and heavy types. Driven by the uptrend in China, terbium oxide and terbium metal prices rose, while light rare earths remained stable. Trading-wise, heavy rare earths saw few transactions due to export controls. On the industrial front, U.S. companies accelerated domestic recycling and purification, while European and Japanese firms advanced R&D on magnetic material recycling and rare-earth-free alternative technologies. Meanwhile, Indo-Pacific and South Korean players actively restructured supply chains, and resource development and processing projects were intensively launched in locations such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Brazil. The global “de-risking” layout for rare earths continued to deepen.

China’s rare earth exports in H1 2026 operated under a temporary regulatory pause, set to expire on November 10. This resulted in a bifurcated market: light rare earths traded efficiently with high volumes, while heavy rare earths remained constrained, creating significant price premiums.

On July 3, JL MAG Rare-Earth's share price rose, closing 3.79% higher at 34.25 yuan per share. On the news front, JL MAG's H1 performance forecast released on July 1 showed: net profit attributable to parent for H1 2026 is expected to be 400 million to 460 million yuan, up 31.17% to 50.84% YoY. Regarding the reasons for performance changes, JL MAG stated in an announcement: 1. In H1 2026, the management adhered to the annual operating policy of "adhering to compliance and regulations, being customer-oriented, focusing on the magnetic materials main business, constructing 20,000 mt of new capacity on schedule, actively deploying embodied robot motor rotors, and reaching new heights." Through measures including technological innovation, organizational optimization, digitalization, and lean management, the company ensured full contract fulfillment and delivery to customers while achieving steady business growth. The company continued to strengthen its leading position in new energy and environmental protection sectors and actively explored emerging markets, with revenue expected to increase by about 30% YoY. Specifically, revenue from the NEV and auto parts sector rose about 30% YoY; in the robot and industrial servo motor sector, revenue rose about 90% YoY, with small-batch deliveries of embodied robot motor rotors already underway. 2. During the reporting period, non-recurring gains and losses are expected to impact net profit by approximately 32.00 million yuan, compared to 70.9405 million yuan (after tax) in the same period last year. 3. In this reporting period, due to A-share and H-share equity incentives as well as H-share convertible bond issuance, total related share-based payment expenses and financial expenses amounted to about 121 million yuan. There were no such expenses in the same period last year. A recent JL MAG announcement shows: to implement the company's development strategy and strengthen comprehensive competitiveness, it plans to acquire a 9.24% equity stake in Baotou Rare Earth Products Exchange Co., Ltd. held by China Northern Rare Earth, through public listing and transfer on the Inner Mongolia Property Rights Exchange Center . According to the valuation report issued by Northern Yashi Asset Evaluation Co., Ltd., as of the valuation date December 31, 2025, the total equity value of the exchange under the market approach was 239.00 million yuan, representing an appreciation of 27.8551 million yuan, or 13.19%, over the net asset book value of 211.1449 million yuan. The expected transaction price for the subject equity is 22.0836 million yuan. Under the Shenzhen Stock Exchange ChiNext Listing Rules and the company's articles of association, this external investment falls within the CEO's approval authority. This investment does not constitute a related party transaction, nor does it constitute a material asset restructuring as defined in the *Administrative Measures for the Material Asset Restructuring of Publicly Listed Firms*. Regarding the company's main business and product applications, JL MAG Rare-Earth introduced in its 2025 annual report: The company is a high-tech enterprise integrating R&D, production, and sales of high-performance NdFeB permanent magnet materials, magnetic assemblies, embodied robot motor rotors, and comprehensive utilization of rare earth recycling. It is a leading supplier of rare earth permanent magnet materials in the new energy and environmental protection sectors. The company’s products are widely used in NEVs and auto parts, energy-saving variable-frequency air conditioners, wind power generation, robotics and industrial servo motors, 3C, low-altitude aircraft, energy-saving elevators, rail transit, and other fields, and it has established long-term and stable cooperative relationships with industry leaders both in and outside China in these sectors. The company actively positions itself in the robotics field. On one hand, it collaborates with internationally renowned technology companies to conduct R&D and capacity building for embodied robot motor rotors, with small-batch product deliveries already made. On the other hand, through direct investment or participation in industry funds, it strategically lays out key links in the relevant industry chain to accelerate industrial synergy and commercialization. Regarding the operating plan for 2026, JL MAG Rare-Earth introduced in its 2025 annual report: The company's operating policy for 2026: "Adhere to legal compliance, adhere to client orientation, focus on the magnetic material main business, build 20,000 mt of new capacity on schedule, actively position embodied robot motor rotors, and scale new peaks." Based on this operating policy and under the premise of legal compliance, the company will focus on advancing the following tasks: 1. Orderly release of capacity under construction. In 2026, some of the company's projects under construction will gradually release capacity. The specific release progress will consider factors such as equipment commissioning and market demand, advancing the commissioning and ramp-up of new capacity in an orderly manner. 2. Continuous improvement of R&D capabilities. 3. Continuous optimization of the product mix. The company will continue to enrich its product matrix for different application scenarios based on client needs, enhancing product structure resilience and client stickiness. Meanwhile, it will steadily advance the layout of projects such as magnetic assemblies and embodied robot motor rotors, equip dedicated production lines and professional teams, and drive the upgrade of small-batch pilot lines to large-scale, standardized manufacturing and quality systems. 4. Continuous improvement of operational capabilities. 5. Strengthening capital expenditure efficiency. 6. Improving incentive mechanisms and shareholder returns. 7. Advancing the construction of the ESG system. Regarding potential risks the company may face, when introducing the risk of rare earth raw material price fluctuations, JL MAG Rare-Earth stated: Rare earth metals are the main raw materials for producing NdFeB magnets. China is an important global supply base for rare earth raw materials, and wild swings in rare earth raw material prices will adversely affect the company's production and sales in the short term. Mitigation measures: The company has built production plants in Ganzhou, Jiangxi, the main production area for heavy rare earth, and in Baotou, Inner Mongolia, the main production area for light rare earth. The company has established long-term cooperative relationships with major rare earth raw material suppliers, including China Northern Rare Earth Group and China Rare Earth Group. Meanwhile, through measures such as procuring rare earth raw material in advance based on orders on hand, establishing price adjustment mechanisms with key clients, optimizing formulations, and improving processes, the company strives to reduce the adverse impact of rare earth raw material price fluctuations on its operating performance. A review of Pr-Nd alloy’s price performance in H1 this year shows : The average price of Pr-Nd alloy on June 30 was 905,000 yuan/mt. Compared with its average price of 735,000 yuan/mt on December 31, 2025, the increase in H1 this year was 23.13%. The annual daily average price of Pr-Nd alloy in H1 this year was 904,650.86 yuan/mt. Compared with its annual daily average price of 529,559.83 yuan/mt in H1 2025, the semiannual daily average price rose by 375,091.03 yuan/mt, up 70.83% YoY. According to SMM quotations: On July 3, the Pr-Nd alloy price was 920,000-930,000 yuan/mt, with an average of 925,000 yuan/mt, up 1.09% from the previous trading day. Currently, rare earth market prices overall are showing a broad upward trend. Driven by a marked increase in market trading activity on July 2, low-priced supply of Pr-Nd oxide tightened, and suppliers of oxides raised their quotations one after another. However, overall inquiry activity in the market declined somewhat compared with yesterday, and actual transactions were not ideal. In the metal market, supported by oxide costs, prices also rose. However, downstream magnetic material enterprises made fewer inquiries, and metal enterprises were not very proactive in offering quotations, resulting in a generally sluggish trading atmosphere and relatively strong wait-and-see sentiment. In the short term, affected by the tightening of low-priced supply in the market, Pr-Nd product prices are expected to drift higher amid consolidation. Recommended reading:

On June 30, JL MAG Rare-Earth's stock price rose. As of the close on June 30, JL MAG gained 4.83%, closing at 30.85 yuan per share. On the news front: An announcement released by JL MAG Rare-Earth earlier showed that, in order to implement the company's development strategy and enhance its comprehensive competitiveness, it plans to acquire a 9.24% equity stake in Baotou Rare Earth Products Exchange Co., Ltd. held by China Northern Rare Earth (Group) High-Tech Co., Ltd. through a public listing and transfer on the Inner Mongolia Property Rights Exchange Center. According to the appraisal report issued by North Asia Asset Appraisal Co., Ltd., as of the appraisal base date of December 31, 2025, the total equity value of the Exchange appraised using the market approach was 239 million yuan, representing an increase of 27.8551 million yuan over the net asset book value of 211.1449 million yuan on the base date, reflecting a value-added rate of 13.19%. The expected transaction price for the target equity is 22.0836 million yuan. In accordance with relevant provisions such as the Rules Governing the Listing of Stocks on the ChiNext Board of the Shenzhen Stock Exchange and the Articles of Association, this external investment falls within the approval authority of the company's CEO. This investment does not constitute a related-party transaction, nor does it constitute a major asset restructuring as defined by the Administrative Measures for the Material Asset Restructurings of Listed Companies. Discussing the purpose of the investment and its impact on the company, the JL MAG announcement stated: Rare earths are the core raw material for producing NdFeB permanent magnet materials. The Exchange serves as a specialized trading platform for rare earth (metal) resources. If this equity acquisition is successfully completed, it will further enhance the company's ability to secure rare earth raw material supply, strengthen its overall competitiveness, and consolidate its market position in the rare earth permanent magnet industry. In line with the principles of cooperative, co-construction, and mutual benefit, the company will fully leverage and utilize its own advantages to support the Exchange's efforts to build a national-level rare earth (metal) resource trading platform. Funds for this acquisition of the Exchange's equity will come from the company's own funds and will not have a material adverse impact on the company's financial condition and operating results. It is conducive to achieving the company's strategic objectives and does not compromise the interests of the company and its shareholders. In its announcement, JL MAG Rare-Earth also highlighted existing risks: 1. The company's planned acquisition of a partial stake in the Exchange constitutes a transfer of state-owned assets, requiring strict compliance with statutory procedures such as state-owned asset transaction approvals and public listings. There is uncertainty as to whether this equity transfer will be implemented smoothly. 2. As a domestic spot exchange specializing in various rare earth products, the Exchange provides services to upstream and downstream enterprises in the rare earth industry chain, and its operations will be subject to various factors including macroeconomic conditions, industry cycles, and the market environment. Regarding the main risks of the investment, the company will promptly follow up on and cooperate with the approval process for this state-owned asset transfer, while leveraging its own industrial strengths to strengthen collaborative development with the Rare Earth Exchange and manage post-investment and risk control effectively to mitigate investment risks. The company will fulfill its information disclosure obligations in strict compliance with relevant regulations based on subsequent progress of this equity transfer. Investors are advised to exercise caution regarding investment risks. In terms of performance, JL MAG Rare-Earth’s previously disclosed Q1 2026 report showed that during the quarter, the company achieved total revenue of RMB 2.036 billion, up 16.05% YoY, with a net profit attributable to the parent company of RMB 193 million, up 20.09% YoY. JL MAG Rare-Earth’s Q1 2026 report revealed: In Q1 2026, facing a complex landscape where total NEV sales declined YoY while the price of the key raw material Pr-Nd experienced short-term wild swings, the company’s management upheld the annual operating policy of "adhering to legal and regulatory compliance, maintaining a client-centric approach, focusing on the core magnetic materials business, constructing 20,000 mt of new capacity on schedule, actively deploying embodied robot motor rotors, and scaling new heights." By driving technological innovation, organizational optimization, digital transformation, and lean management initiatives, the company mobilized employee initiative to ensure contract fulfillment and on-time delivery to clients while achieving steady business performance growth. In Q1 2026, the company recorded revenue of RMB 2.036 billion, up 16.05% YoY; net profit attributable to shareholders of the publicly listed firm of RMB 193 million, up 20.09% YoY; and non-recurring gain/loss-adjusted net profit attributable to shareholders of the publicly listed firm of RMB 176 million, up 65.95% YoY. The income statement included equity incentive-related share-based payment expenses of RMB 49.9682 million. Net profit excluding the share-based payment impact was RMB 235 million, up 44.57% YoY, and non-recurring gain/loss-adjusted net profit excluding the share-based payment impact was RMB 219 million, up 106.82% YoY. Robots liberate human productivity and represent a critical direction in the next wave of technological transformation, with broad industry growth prospects. In Q1 2026, the company’s robotics and industrial servo motor segment generated revenue of RMB 118 million, up 81.84% YoY, serving clients that include multiple global industrial robot and servo motor producers. The company is actively collaborating with a world-renowned tech firm on the R&D of embodied robot motor rotors and has delivered small-batch products. Additionally, through direct investments and participation in industry funds, the company is making strategic moves in key nodes of the industry chain to accelerate industrial synergy and commercialization. After the introduction of export control measures on medium-heavy rare earth-related items, the company carried out export declaration work in accordance with relevant national regulations, has successively obtained export licenses issued by the national competent authority, and became one of the first enterprises granted a general license by the state. The company's export business was basically stable. During the reporting period, export sales revenue reached 381 million yuan, accounting for 18.7% of operating revenue, up 22.16% YoY. The company has established long-term strategic partnerships with major rare earth raw material suppliers, including China Northern Rare Earth Group and China Rare Earth Group, and fully leverages the advantage of its controlled subsidiary Yinhai New Materials' upstream rare earth recycling business to build a diversified rare earth resource supply system. In Q1 2026, the company achieved a consolidated gross margin of 21.83%, an increase of 6.13 percentage points YoY; net cash flow from operating activities was 358 million yuan, a significant improvement from -350 million yuan in the same period last year, with overall operating cash flow remaining healthy; as of the end of the reporting period, the company held cash and cash equivalents of 3.298 billion yuan, certificates of deposit maturing within one year of 860 million yuan, and certificates of deposit maturing beyond one year of 571 million yuan, reflecting a strong cash reserve. In addition, JL MAG Rare-Earth's 2025 annual report shows: In 2025, the company achieved total operating revenue of 7.718 billion yuan and core business revenue of 7.028 billion yuan, up 14.11% and 19.00% YoY, respectively, both hitting record highs. Of this, domestic sales revenue was 6.447 billion yuan, up 16.36% YoY; overseas sales revenue was 1.27 billion yuan, up 3.92% YoY, of which export sales to the US were 501 million yuan, up 39.80% YoY. Net profit attributable to shareholders of the publicly listed firm was 706 million yuan, up 142.44% YoY; net profit attributable to shareholders of the publicly listed firm after deducting non-recurring gains and losses was 620 million yuan, up 264.00% YoY. The consolidated gross margin reached 21.18%, up 10.05 percentage points from 11.13% in the previous year. The income statement included share-based payment expenses from equity incentives and financial expenses for convertible bonds recognized using the effective interest method, totaling approximately 107 million yuan, of which only 5.11 million yuan will require actual cash outflow in the future. Overall operating cash flow remained healthy. Regarding the company's main businesses and product applications, JL MAG Rare-Earth's 2025 annual report describes: The company is a high-tech enterprise integrating R&D, production, and sales of high-performance NdFeB permanent magnet materials, magnetic assemblies, motor rotors for embodied robots, and comprehensive rare earth recycling. It is a leading supplier of rare earth permanent magnet materials in the new energy and energy-saving and environmental protection sectors. The company's products are widely used in NEVs and automotive parts, energy-saving inverter air conditioners, wind power generation, robots and industrial servo motors, 3C, low-altitude aircraft, energy-saving elevators, rail transit, and other fields, and it has established long-term, stable cooperative relationships with industry leaders both in and outside China in each field. The company has actively deployed in the robotics field: on the one hand, it cooperates with internationally renowned technology companies to conduct R&D on motor rotors for embodied robots and capacity building, with small-batch product deliveries already achieved; on the other hand, through direct investments or participation in industry funds, it strategically deploys in key links of the relevant industry chain, accelerating industry synergy and commercialization. JL MAG Rare-Earth, in its annual report, discussed its industry situation during the reporting period and touched on rare earth price trends: In 2025, Pr-Nd alloy prices fluctuated upward overall. According to data from the China Rare Earth Industry Association, the average price of Pr-Nd alloy in 2025 was 601,300 yuan/mt, a YoY increase of 23.8%. Rare earth prices are generally determined by the interplay of multiple factors, including supply, demand, policies, inventory, and market expectations. Meanwhile, compared to short-term fluctuations in rare earth prices, the industry places greater emphasis on medium- and long-term changes, as relatively stable rare earth prices are conducive to the industry's high-quality development. Regarding its outlook for future development, JL MAG Rare-Earth stated: (1) Corporate Development Strategy The company will continue to uphold its vision of "becoming a global leader in the rare earth permanent magnet industry" and its development strategy of "providing clients with full-category magnetic material solutions," centered on rare earth permanent magnets, focusing on application scenarios related to new energy and energy conservation and emission reduction, to continuously enhance product performance and cost efficiency. At the same time, the company adheres to group-oriented operations and collaborative industry chain deployment, guided by client needs and the principle of long-termism, steadily advancing capacity construction and technological upgrades. 1. Commitment to Stable Operations: The company steadfastly upholds intrinsic safety bottom lines, strictly implements national regulations in areas such as export permits, production safety, and environmental protection, solidly pursues compliant operations and comprehensive risk control, and always maintains a prudent financial strategy. It remains focused on its core business, making technological innovation and process improvement long-term core investment priorities, continuously strengthening the automation, digitalization, and intelligent construction of production operations, and gradually building sustainable capabilities for product iteration and lean cost optimization. 2. Collaborative Industry Chain Deployment: The company follows an industry chain layout approach of "upstream recycling collaboration, midstream product diversification, and downstream component extension," comprehensively enhancing collaborative operational efficiency in the industry chain and strengthening its resistance to market fluctuations. Upstream, the company will build a recycling system and deepen resource synergy cooperation, promote the diversification of raw material supply sources, and continuously optimize procurement and inventory management efficiency. Midstream, leveraging existing areas of strength, it will closely target the differentiated needs for magnetic materials across various application scenarios, continuously improve its product portfolio and optimize product structure, steadily transforming from a “single-product supplier” to a “comprehensive solution provider.” Downstream, deeply aligning with core client needs, the company will steadily advance R&D and production capacity building for magnetic assemblies, motor rotors, and other products, continuously enhancing assembly precision and full-process quality control, effectively increasing client stickiness and product added value. 3. Synergistic Strategic Investments In terms of strategic investments, the company will carry out prudent equity investments or partnerships around client needs and key links in the industry chain, adhering to the principle of mutual empowerment between investments and the company’s principal operations. Leveraging industrial funds established in collaboration with professional investment institutions, it will focus on strategic tracks such as high-end manufacturing, embodied AI, and new energy, deepen project layout and value cultivation, and promote industry resource synergy and long-term value enhancement. (II) 2026 Annual Operating Plan The company’s operating policy for 2026: “Adhere to legal and compliant operations, uphold client orientation, focus on the magnetic materials main business, build the 20,000 mt new capacity on schedule, actively position in motor rotors for embodied robots, and reach new heights.” In line with this policy and on the premise of legal and compliant operations, the company will prioritize the following work: 1. Orderly Release of Capacity under Construction In 2026, some of the company’s projects under construction will gradually release capacity. The specific release progress will comprehensively consider factors such as equipment commissioning and market demand, advancing the commissioning and ramp-up of new capacity in an orderly manner. 2. Continuous Enhancement of R&D Capabilities. 3. Continuous Optimization of Product Structure The company will continue to enrich its product matrix for different application scenarios based on client needs, enhancing product structure resilience and client stickiness. At the same time, it will steadily advance the layout of projects such as magnetic assemblies and motor rotors for embodied robots, equip dedicated production lines and specialized teams, and upgrade small-batch production lines to large-scale, standardized manufacturing and quality systems. 4. Continuous Improvement of Operational Capabilities. 5. Strengthening Capital Expenditure Efficiency. 6. Improving Incentive Mechanisms and Shareholder Returns. 7. Advancing the ESG System. Regarding risks the company may face, JL MAG Rare-Earth noted when describing the risk of rare earth raw material price fluctuations: Rare earth metals are the main raw materials for producing NdFeB magnets. China is an important global supplier of rare earth raw materials. Wild swings in rare earth raw material prices will, in the short term, adversely affect the company’s production and sales. Countermeasures: The company has built production plants in Ganzhou, Jiangxi, a major heavy rare earth production area, and Baotou, Inner Mongolia, a major light rare earth production area. It has established long-term cooperative relationships with major rare earth raw material suppliers, including China Northern Rare Earth Group and China Rare Earth Group. At the same time, through measures such as purchasing rare earth raw materials in advance based on orders on hand, setting up price adjustment mechanisms with major clients, optimizing formulations, and improving processes, the company strives to mitigate the adverse impact of rare earth raw material price fluctuations on its business performance. Looking back at the price performance of Pr-Nd alloy in 2025, : The average price of Pr-Nd alloy on December 31, 2025, was 735,000 yuan/mt, compared with the average price of 489,000 yuan/mt on December 31, 2024, representing a 2025 increase of 50.31%. The annual daily average price of Pr-Nd alloy in 2025 was 602,181.07 yuan/mt, compared with the annual daily average of 484,704.55 yuan/mt in 2024, increasing by 117,476.52 yuan/mt, a YoY increase of 24.24%. According to SMM's quotation display: on June 30, the Pr-Nd alloy price was 900,000~910,000 yuan/mt, with an average price of 905,000 yuan/mt, down 0.56% from the previous trading day. Focusing on the Pr-Nd market, on June 30, the increase in Pr-Nd oxide futures prices drove a synchronized rise in suppliers’ spot offer prices, making low-priced oxide hard to find in the market. However, metal enterprises showed a cautious purchasing attitude due to unsatisfactory metal inquiries, resulting in generally moderate overall trading activity. In the metal market, inquiry activity picked up somewhat in the afternoon of the 30th, mainly driven by tender purchases from large magnetic material enterprises. However, most magnetic material enterprises remained on the sidelines, and overall transaction performance was poor. In the short term, given the lack of significant improvement in downstream demand, Pr-Nd product prices are expected to move sideways. Recommended reading:

SMM, June 18: The Regulations for the Implementation of the Mineral Resources Law of the People's Republic of China, which took effect on June 15, listed 36 types of minerals, including rare earths, tungsten, lithium, cobalt, gallium, and germanium, as national-level strategic minerals, subjecting them to full-chain, high-intensity control. The prices of Pr-Nd oxide, dysprosium oxide, and terbium oxide saw their third consecutive daily increase on June 17; Orient Zirconium issued a price adjustment notice, raising the prices of its related zirconium products effective June 18, 2026; and the favor of some market funds all contributed to the opening strength of the minor metal sector. As of around 9:57 on June 18, the minor metal industry sector rose by 3.09%. In terms of individual stocks: Orient Zirconium, Shenghe Resources, and Zhongxi Nonferrous hit the daily limit; China Rare Earth, Jintian Titanium, China Northern Rare Earth, China Tungsten High-Tech, Tin Industry Co., and Yunnan Germanium led the gains. Market News Orient Zirconium raised the prices of its related zirconium products effective June 18, 2026 On June 18, Orient Zirconium issued a product price adjustment notice. The notice indicated that based on current market conditions, Orient Zirconium decided to raise the prices of its related zirconium products starting from June 18, 2026, with the price adjustments as follows: zirconium oxychloride products (including mother liquor materials) increased by 1,500 yuan/mt; zirconium dioxide products increased by 4,500 yuan/mt; fused zirconium products increased by 2,000 yuan/mt; at the same time, the prices of other zirconium series products from Orient Zirconium will be adjusted accordingly. [Aidite: The company has already laid out a powder substitute plan and fully implemented it; the new material can replace the original imported powder] On June 17, Aidite stated on an interactive platform while answering investor questions that the company had received a notice from Japan's Tosoh regarding the suspension of zirconia powder supply. To ensure the stability of its own supply, the company had already laid out a powder substitute plan and fully implemented it; the new material can replace the original imported powder, and the entire new product line has passed rigorous customer verification. Currently, several core major clients have completed the switch and signed long-term orders at the recent dealer conference. The company will actively take a series of measures to avoid any adverse impact from the Japanese powder supply disruption. In the future, the company will seize the window of opportunity for high-quality material breakthroughs and, leveraging its technical and delivery advantages, continue to expand its market share. Spot Market Zirconium According to the SMM price assessment, on June 18, the price of zirconium oxychloride (Zr(Hf)O2≥36%) was quoted at 17,500-18,000 yuan/mt, with an average of 17,750 yuan/mt, up 5.97% from the previous trading day. The zirconium industry chain had long been under pressure, with sluggish traditional demand from ceramics and high industry inventories. Zircon sand and zirconium oxide prices persistently hovered at lows, trading was sluggish, and the market was at the bottom of the cycle. Since entering Q2 this year, driven by export controls on zirconium products to Japan, price hikes by overseas zirconium ore producers, and demand expectations for solid-state batteries, zirconium raw material prices stopped falling and stabilized, inventories destocked, and the industry moved out of the bottom range, embarking on a volatile recovery trend. Upstream zircon sand imports have tightened, overseas miners continue to raise prices, and cost support has been strengthening. Dongfang Zirconium Industry completed a round of price hikes in April and raised zirconium product prices again on June 18. For the zirconium market outlook, supported by tightening raw material supply, zirconium prices will hold up well in the short term. Going forward, attention should be paid to changes in raw material supply and downstream demand. Rare Earth In the rare earth market: Rare earth oxide prices were relatively stable overall, but downstream purchasing activity has decreased as the holiday approaches. Pr-Nd oxide and dysprosium oxide ended their three-day winning streak and both pulled back slightly on June 18, while terbium oxide prices held steady on June 18 after a previous three-day rise. Expectations for production cuts in the scrap recycling sector and news-driven factors previously drove Pr-Nd prices, dysprosium oxide, and terbium oxide higher. However, after the afternoon session on June 17, shipments of Pr-Nd oxide from traders increased slightly, and the center of the actual trading range shifted lower. For medium-heavy rare earths, oxide suppliers held firm offer prices, but actual buying from metal enterprises was limited, and downstream magnetic material enterprises showed limited acceptance of high metal prices. Affected by the stalemate in market trading, rare earth prices are expected to move sideways in the short term. Tin Additionally, in the tin market: On June 18, the average price of SMM 1# tin fell 0.93% from the previous trading day. Driven by the US Fed keeping rates unchanged but signaling a hawkish bias, with half of policymakers expecting rate hikes this year, nonferrous metals fell overall and tin prices also pulled back. Currently, on the fundamental side: (1) Supply side: In June, most smelters focused on maintaining stable production. (2) Demand side: Downstream purchases were cautious, buying according to orders. Spot market: Overall trading sentiment in the spot market was light. Although tin prices have pulled back, they remain at relatively high levels and the holiday is approaching. Additionally, as the electronics industry enters its traditional off-season, downstream enterprises such as solder makers are only purchasing on a "buy on dips for essential needs" basis. Institutional Views Guojin Securities’ research report on June 14 showed: Rare Earth: Dysprosium oxide may benefit from the boost by MLCC, with a significant rebound trend from price lows. From the start of the year, the price center has continued to rise. We believe this is likely related to supply-side documents released in 2024-2025, with ongoing supply-side reform in the industry. Exports fell 1% YoY for full-year 2025, while exports from early 2026 to date have increased significantly, indicating strong restocking demand outside China. The rare earth sector will continue to see dual improvements in valuation and performance, and 2026 is also a key year for resolving industry competition among key targets. On the resource side, attention is recommended for China Rare Earth (medium-heavy rare earth leader, biggest beneficiary of supply-side reform), Zhongxi Nonferrous (undervalued, high-growth South China rare earth leader), and China Northern Rare Earth (light rare earth leader, with significant cost advantages); other related targets include Bao Gang United Steel, JL MAG Rare-Earth, etc. Tin: It believes that invisible inventory of tin ingots is gradually drying up, so tin prices are expected to strengthen under the backfill of macro liquidity or spillover from tech markets. The supply-demand pattern for tin will improve in the long term. Tungsten: This period, tungsten prices continued their rebound trend. It believes that against the backdrop of increased strategic stockpiling outside China, tungsten may have higher priority; tungsten's supply-demand fundamentals have seen strong resonance. Molybdenum: The destocking of imported ore has been significant, and domestic molybdenum prices have stabilized and rebounded. Steel procurement volume remains robust, destocking along the industry chain is progressing, and the deadlock of molybdenum prices with "volume but no price" is gradually being broken, with the upward channel becoming clearer. Molybdenum is also a military metal, with persistently low inventory, and increased defense spending outside China may further boost molybdenum prices. Huafu Securities’ research report on June 14 showed: Other Minor Metals: Industry leaders' long-term contract performance was impressive, and market sentiment in tungsten clearly stabilized. The tungsten market overall has walked out of a mild recovery, with the previous consolidation at lows being reversed somewhat. Industry leaders' long-term contract transactions were impressive, serving as a key driver for the upward movement in futures, and overall market sentiment clearly stabilized. However, the spot and scattered cargo atmosphere remained mediocre, with no widespread price-following adjustments upstream or downstream, and the rebound pace was gentle, with the market overall in a stage of steady recovery. Open Source Securities' 2026 mid-year investment strategy for the metals industry showed: Copper: Supply side, most miners outside China still face declining grades and recovery rates, and disruptive factors persist (Ivanhoe’s KK copper mine, Codelco’s El Teniente copper mine). While Chinese enterprises are increasing output, the overall increase is limited. Under an optimistic scenario, global supply growth may be below 2% in 2026-2027. Demand side, H1 electricity demand in China and the US maintained high growth rates, which may contribute marginal increments to copper demand. Open Source Securities believes that the supply-demand structure contradiction for copper will further highlight in 2026, supporting the rise in copper price center. Lithium: On the supply side of the lithium industry, capital spending cuts and the gradual formation of supply discipline, coupled with frequent disruptions, have led to a marked decline in supply elasticity compared with the past. Meanwhile, sustained strong demand from the energy storage sector is improving the structure of lithium demand, while industry inventory pressure is easing marginally. Lithium prices are expected to see a phased recovery. Enterprises with advantages in resource security, low costs and integrated layout are likely to show stronger earnings recovery than the industry average. Lithium mines and lithium chemicals companies with high resource self-sufficiency and strong cost control deserve attention. Tungsten: As an advantaged strategic metal in China, tungsten mine supply is constrained by resource depletion, environmental protection and other factors. Together with the total mining volume control implemented by the state, tungsten mine production release is limited. On the demand side, emerging sectors are boosting tungsten demand, which is expected to support tungsten prices over the long term. Recommended reading:

In May, the rare earth market entered its traditional off-season. Although occasional factors such as major producers' procurement briefly boosted rare earth prices, weak downstream demand kept prices under pressure and pulling back overall throughout May. Pr-Nd oxide and dysprosium oxide fell 11% and 11.79% respectively in May, while terbium oxide also edged down. On the supply side, however, an increasing trend emerged — domestic rare earth oxide production was up MoM across the board in May. Combined with continued inflows of ex-China sources, imports of unlisted rare earth oxides in the first four months surged 103% YoY. This supply-demand mismatch further suppressed rare earth price performance in May. Since early June, Pr-Nd oxide and other rare earth products have seen slight price rebounds, driven by major producers' restocking and futures fluctuations. However, the off-season demand shortfall persists — how will the rare earth market perform going forward? Pr-Nd Oxide Down 11% in May, Dysprosium Oxide Down 11.79%, Terbium Oxide Down 1.63% Light rare earth prices: Taking the historical price trend of Pr-Nd oxide as an example, according to SMM quotes: the average price of Pr-Nd oxide on May 29 was 687,500 yuan/mt, compared with its April 30 average price of 772,500 yuan/mt, representing a decline of 85,000 yuan/mt in May, with a monthly drop of 11%. Entering June, Pr-Nd oxide continued to rise, with an average price of 700,500 yuan/mt on June 2. Medium-heavy rare earth prices: Taking the trend of dysprosium oxide as an example, according to SMM quotes: the average price of dysprosium oxide on May 29 was 1,230 yuan/kg, compared with its April 30 average price of 1,375 yuan/kg, representing a decline of 145 yuan/kg in May, with a monthly drop of 11.79%. Entering June, dysprosium oxide prices edged up slightly, with an average price of 1,240 yuan/kg on June 2. Taking the trend of terbium oxide as an example, according to SMM quotes: the average price of terbium oxide on May 29 was 6,025 yuan/kg, compared with its April 30 average price of 6,125 yuan/kg, representing a decline of 100 yuan/kg in May, with a monthly drop of 1.63%. Entering June, terbium oxide prices rose slightly, with an average price of 6,035 yuan/kg on June 2. Oxide Production Up MoM Across the Board in May Production: Due to increased production from scrap recycling enterprises and production resumptions at some enterprises that had previously undergone equipment maintenance, production of Pr-Nd oxide and other rare earth oxides edged up in May compared with April. Imports of Unlisted Rare Earth Oxides Up 103% YoY, January-April According to data from the General Administration of Customs, China's imports of thorium ore and concentrates totaled 21,443 mt from January to April 2026, nearly flat YoY. Imports in April were 4,081 mt, up 22% MoM but up 32% YoY. From January to April 2026, China's imports of unlisted rare earth oxides reached approximately 26,123 mt, a significant YoY increase of 103%. Currently, the operating rate of ex-China rare earth mines remains relatively high, keeping actual supply in the international market at ample levels. Outlook Recently, rare earth prices rose due to futures market price fluctuations and periodic restocking by some large enterprises. However, as downstream orders were unsatisfactory, even though raw material inventory at downstream enterprises remained at relatively low levels, end-user wait-and-see sentiment was strong and enterprises showed little enthusiasm for restocking and stockpiling. It is expected that rare earth prices will be in the doldrums again until downstream orders see a notable increase and market confidence shows clear recovery. Recommended reading:

Recently, the General Administration of Customs released import and export data for January-April 2026. According to the latest data, China's imports of thorium ore and concentrates from January to April 2026 totaled 21,443 mt, nearly flat YoY. Of this, imports in April were 4,081 mt, up 22% MoM but up 32% YoY. From January to April 2026, China's imports of unlisted rare earth oxides were approximately 26,123 mt, surging 103% YoY. Currently, the operating rate of ex-China rare earth mines remains relatively high, keeping actual supply in the international market at ample levels. Demand side, in China, affected by tightening environmental protection policies and declining orders from downstream magnetic material enterprises, the overall operating rate of rare earth separation plants has remained low for an extended period, resulting in persistently weak capacity to absorb imported ore. This supply-demand mismatch has led to a distinctive "hot outside, cold inside" phenomenon in China's rare earth market: on one hand, both import volumes and prices are rising; on the other hand, social inventory continues to accumulate. If downstream demand fails to recover in a timely manner, this divergence of "rising imports and growing inventory" may persist over the long term, which could in turn force some mines to adjust their production plans.