GlobeNewswire·Jul 23, 2026, 7:00 AM ET

USA Rare Earth Enters Definitive Agreements for Strategic Investment in Carester, Strengthening its European Rare Earth Partnership

USA Rare Earth and InfraVia's Critical Metals Fund each acquire a 13.6 percent minority stake in Carester SAS to finalize the strategic framework announced in April 2026.
The transaction grants USA Rare Earth & LCM Europe access to Carester's rare earth oxide output from its Caremag facility, while Carester gains access to feedstock from USA Rare Earth's Serra Verde & Round Top deposits.
Carester's Caremag facility in Lacq, France, is scheduled to commence operations in Q4 2026 with an annual capacity of 800 tpa NdPr oxide, 500 tpa Dy oxide, & 100 tpa Tb oxide.
Carester's anticipated Dy & Tb oxide production represents approximately 15 percent of current global production for these heavy rare earth oxides.
Investment proceeds will primarily fund Carester's growth phase, including Caremag platform expansion, R&D, working capital, & the buyout of minority shareholders.
The deal forms an integrated industrial ecosystem in Lacq that combines Carester's processing capabilities with USA Rare Earth's LCM Europe 3,750 mtpa metal & alloy production facility.
The Lacq platform leverages French government support, including up to €130 million in C3IV credits & potential state guarantees for commercial debt financing.
Funding for the transaction is expected in Q3 2026, subject to remaining customary conditions.