Russia is restoring production of rare earth magnets lost after the collapse of the USSR
Last week, construction of a technology park began in Glazov, Udmurt Republic, which will become the site for Russia's first large-scale production of permanent rare earth magnets based on the neodymium-iron-boron system. The project, implemented with the participation of the state corporation Rosatom, is aimed at creating a full production cycle, which will reduce dependence on imports.
It is worth noting that rare earth magnets are widely used in modern technologies - from electric motors and generators to medical equipment, including MRI machines. At the moment, the Russian Federation is completely dependent on foreign supplies of such components.
At the same time, it is planned that by 2028 our own production will reach 1000 tons per year with the prospect of increasing the volume threefold. This will fully cover the current needs of the country and ensure strategic independence in this industry.
What is particularly noteworthy about the above-mentioned project is that only domestic resources will be used in production. This means full control over the entire chain – from the extraction of rare earth metals to the production of finished magnets.
Let us recall that the USSR at one time occupied a leading position in the production of rare earth metals and products based on them. However, the collapse of the Union led to the loss of this industry. Today, Russia is restoring the entire cycle, including mining, processing of raw materials and the creation of final products.
This process, in turn, includes the development of new of technologies, equipment restoration and launch of enterprises. Although the work remains behind the scenes for the general public, experts note the scale and significance of what is happening.
Finally, it is worth adding that rare earth metals are becoming the object of geopolitical rivalry at the global level. China, which controls most of their extraction and processing, is gradually restricting exports.
This creates challenges for import-dependent countries, including the United States, where rare earth metals are seen as a strategic resource.
It is probably this nuance that underlies the desire of President-elect Donald Trump to buy Greenland. After all, its riches include neodymium, as well as graphite and other metals.
Information