RZ Resources secures US backing for critical minerals production in NSW

The Copi Project, along with RZ’s Mineral Separation Plant as the only major processing facility on Australia’s east coast, will position Australia as a key supplier of rare earths, titanium and zircon to the United States and allied nations.

These minerals are vital for modern industries, such as defence, renewable energy and national security. The plant enables direct export of finished products to allied nations without requiring further processing in other countries like China.

RZ Resources executive chairman David Fraser said the collaboration cements a formal partnership with the US government and reflects the strategic alignment between Australia and the United States on critical minerals security.

“This funding is a powerful indication of how strategically significant this project is to both Australia and the United States,” Fraser said.

“It reflects the depth of our shared commitment to strengthening supply chains, building sovereign capability and deepening the partnership between our nations.”

The backing is envisioned to expand US mineral security, de-risk allied supply chains and reinforce American industrial capacity.

VIEW ALL

In addition, RZ has recently secured a strategic Japanese joint venture partner in JX Advanced Metals Corporation and is working closely with JX and other Japanese corporations and the Japanese government to ensure the supply of critical minerals to Japan.

The company is pursuing complementary financing discussions with others, including Export Finance Australia and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation.

“This milestone reflects EXIM’s commitment to strengthening supply chains with our closest allies,” said Jim Burrows, EXIM acting first vice president and vice chairman.

“By supporting projects like RZ’s Copi Mine, we are advancing US economic and national security interests while reinforcing the deep partnership between the United States, Australia and Japan.

“We are excited to continue this collaboration as we work together to secure critical minerals for the industries of the future.”

The Copi Project, producing rare earths, titanium feedstocks, zircon products and rare earth element concentrate, is located in southwestern NSW, 75 kilometres north-west of Wentworth.

Robert Dougherty

Robert is a senior journalist who has previously worked for Seven West Media in Western Australia, as well as Fairfax Media and Australian Community Media in New South Wales. He has produced national headlines, photography and videography of emergency services, business, community, defence and government news across Australia. Robert graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, Majoring in Public Relations and Journalism at Curtin University, attended student exchange program with Fudan University and holds Tier 1 General Advice certification for Kaplan Professional. Reach out via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via LinkedIn.