Chemical
USA Rare Earth to build major metal and alloy plant in France
The facilities are designed to create a fully integrated European platform for rare earth processing, metal production and alloy manufacturing
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By ICN Bureau | January 23, 2026
USA Rare Earth has announced plans to build a 3,750-metric-ton-per-year rare earth metal and alloy production facility in Lacq, France, marking a significant expansion of Europe’s critical minerals supply chain.
The project will be developed through the company’s subsidiary, Less Common Metals (LCM) Europe SAS, and will be co-located with Carester SAS’ 1,600-metric-ton-per-year Caremag oxide processing plant, which is expected to come online in late 2026. Together, the facilities are designed to create a fully integrated European platform for rare earth processing, metal production and alloy manufacturing.
The French government has committed to support the project across both capital and operating needs. LCM Europe has been approved for direct credits under France’s C3IV program covering up to 45% of eligible equipment costs, as well as up to €130 million for real estate. Additional government backing is expected to support hiring and workforce training as the facility ramps up operations.
“The development of an integrated rare earth processing and metal-making platform in France enhances USAR’s integrated rare earth value chain, to the benefit of the United States and our allies,” said Barbara Humpton, Chief Executive Officer of USAR. “We are proud to establish Europe’s first metal-making platform, which will accelerate the realization of a secure, sustainable transatlantic rare earth value chain.”
USA Rare Earth said the Lacq project reflects its broader strategy to strengthen Europe’s rare earth industrial base, improve supply chain resilience and secure critical materials needed for advanced manufacturing and the energy transition.
