Taiwan's Minister of Economic Affairs Kung Ming-hsin announced today (July 2) that the Geological Survey and Mineral Management Center will visit California and Colorado in October to inspect rare earth mineral sources and participate in local academic discussions. The visit aims to diversify Taiwan's rare earth supply chains amid efforts to boost domestic refining capacity. In February, Kung stated Taiwan plans to expand rare earth production so that by 2030, domestic capacity will meet half of the projected 2,000-ton demand, with the Industrial Technology Research Institute tasked with scaling up output.
Geological Center to Inspect California and Colorado Rare Earth Sites in October
Speaking at a Ministry of Economic Affairs meeting, Kung disclosed that geological center officials will depart in October to visit California and Colorado. The delegation will inspect mineral sources and engage in discussions with local academic organizations regarding future cooperation. Kung explained that if the inspected mineral sources meet industry requirements, the Industrial Technology Research Institute will coordinate with US counterparts to establish refining production lines.
Taiwan Pursuing Multiple Rare Earth Sources Including Australia
Kung emphasized Taiwan's multi-source approach to rare earth procurement. "For Taiwan, the more mineral sources, the better," he stated. In addition to US engagement, Taiwan is simultaneously in contact with Australia to secure alternative supply channels. This diversification strategy supports the government's goal of reducing reliance on single-source rare earth imports while building domestic refining infrastructure.
Overseas Industrial Parks Progress: Poland, Mexico, US, India
Kung provided updates on the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers' Association (TEEMA) overseas industrial park projects. Following Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk's announcement that the TEEMA technology park will be located in Miękinia, Lower Silesia Province, Kung expressed hope for groundbreaking by year-end. For the Mexico park, Kung noted an investment conference scheduled for mid-July will provide more complete progress details. Regarding the US park, Kung visited Texas and Arizona in May for site evaluations, with another delegation planned for July to finalize location decisions. The India park project is advancing but on a later timeline compared to the other locations, Kung added.
FAQ
What is the purpose of Taiwan's October visit to California and Colorado?
The Geological Survey and Mineral Management Center will inspect rare earth mineral sources in California and Colorado and participate in academic discussions to explore cooperation opportunities for Taiwan's rare earth supply chain diversification.
Why is Taiwan seeking multiple rare earth sources?
Minister Kung Ming-hsin stated Taiwan is pursuing a multi-source strategy to reduce dependence on single suppliers. The government aims to expand domestic rare earth refining capacity to meet half of the projected 2,000-ton demand by 2030, requiring diversified mineral imports from the US, Australia, and other sources.
When will the TEEMA Poland industrial park begin construction?
Minister Kung expressed hope that the TEEMA technology park in Miękinia, Lower Silesia Province, Poland, will break ground by year-end, following the site announcement by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
