Solvay Plans Rare Earths Plant in the US
Solvay’s CEO, Philippe Kehren, expressed interest in building a rare earths processing plant in the United States, citing stronger government incentives there compared to Europe, according to Reuters. The Belgium-based chemical company, one of the few outside China with rare earth separation technology, began small-scale mineral production at its French facility earlier this year.
Production and Investment Plans
Scaling operations to commercial levels depends on securing sufficient support from governments and customers. Solvay has not yet approved a €50–100 million investment to expand its French site, as talks with clients and government authorities continue.
US Market Developments
- In July, MP Materials, operator of the only US rare earth mine, signed a multibillion-dollar deal with the government to boost processing capacity and start domestic magnet manufacturing.
- When asked if Solvay would establish a US plant with comparable incentives, Kehren confirmed,
“The answer is yes.”
Industry Context
Solvay remains a rare player outside China capable of rare earth separation, a key process for producing minerals for permanent magnets.
“The answer is yes.” — Philippe Kehren on establishing a US separation plant if incentives are comparable
Author’s summary: Solvay is considering a rare earths processing plant in the US due to better government support than Europe, awaiting investment approval and market interest.