Lindian Resources Ltd (ASX:LIN, OTC:LINIF) says its Kangankunde Rare Earths Project in Malawi remains unaffected by the country’s reported intention to restrict the export of raw minerals.
The company noted that the President’s Executive Order No. 2 of 2025 includes an exemption for minerals that are “processed, refined, or value-added in Malawi” under the nation’s mining laws. Lindian said its development plan already aligns with that requirement: ore from Kangankunde will be processed in-country into a concentrate before export — currently the highest practical level of beneficiation available domestically.
Lindian added that Malawian authorities are aware of its beneficiation plans and that the company will continue to operate fully within local laws and regulations. It characterised the government’s stance as a good-faith move intended to maximise national benefit from mining and said it will keep working collaboratively with officials and the broader industry.
The company confirmed there is no change to current activities at Kangankunde and that it remains compliant with all exploration, environmental and community engagement obligations.
Lindian targets 2026 production at Kangankunde
Lindian CFO Teck Lim spoke with Proactive a couple of weeks ago about early works at Kangankunde, which have been finished on schedule and within budget, including a 5.5-kilometre site access road. With the final investment decision made in August, the company raised A$91.5 million at a 48% premium and signed a 15-year offtake and funding deal with Iluka Resources. Major contracts have been let — Mota-Engil for civil construction — and key equipment from Komatsu and Sandvik is in hand to support a low-cost, owner-operator model.
Main construction is due to start in January 2026, with first rare earth concentrate targeted for the fourth quarter of 2026. “By December 2026, we’ll be producing rare earth concentrate,” Lim said. The project is described as low cost, high grade and long life, with a 45-year mine life and expansion potential extending beyond 200 years.
Lindian is now finalising major project agreements and moving to appoint a design-and-construct contractor while feasibility and expansion studies progress. The company says it is the only fully funded rare earths project to have reached FID and is set to enter production in 2026.