EWIT enlightenment: MP Materials

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Rare earth elements like neodymium (Nd) and praseodymium (Pr) power magnets inside smartphones, EV motors, wind turbines, and defence systems. For years, the west relied almost entirely on China for these materials – a growing vulnerability amid rising geopolitical tensions. In late 2024, China tightened export controls and banned certain rare earth exports to the US.

In response, the US and allies moved to rebuild domestic supply chains, with Edinburgh Worldwide holding MP Materials rapidly emerging as a central player.

Defence partnership fuels domestic expansion

In July 2025, MP announced a multibillion-dollar public-private partnership with the US Department of Defence (DoD) to establish a complete domestic rare earth magnet supply chain. With equity and low-interest loans, the Pentagon became one of MP’s largest shareholders. The deal will fund a new “10X” magnet facility, scaling US magnet output tenfold - from 1,000 to 10,000 metric tons annually by 2028.

Beyond funding, the partnership guarantees stable economics for MP, including a floor price for NdPr and a full offtake agreement for magnets from the 10X facility. This support ensures MP can compete even if China cuts prices, while securing critical supply for US defence. CEO James Litinsky called the initiative “transformational” – a view we share. It marks MP as a vertically integrated national security asset.

Apple joins forces for sustainable magnets

Days later, MP unveiled a long-term partnership with Apple. In a $500 million deal, MP will supply US-made magnets produced from 100 per cent recycled rare earths. These magnets will be manufactured in Texas using recycled feedstock processed at Mountain Pass – advancing Apple’s goal of building a circular supply chain.

This agreement builds on years of collaboration since 2018 to recover rare earths from scrap and old devices. To meet Apple’s vast demand, MP will expand its Texas plant and build a dedicated recycling line, with Apple prepaying $200 million to support this scale-up. By 2027, MP expects to supply recycled-content magnets for Apple’s full product line. CEO Litinsky said the partnership boosts vertical integration, supply resilience, and US industrial strength. Apple’s endorsement further validates MP’s technology and leadership.

A new era of independence

Together, the DoD and Apple deals signal a step-change for MP and US rare earth independence. By 2028, US magnet-making capacity could grow tenfold – enough to close the gap with Asia and support domestic demand across tech and defence sectors.

MP remains uniquely positioned in the west with government protection, locked-in demand, and proprietary tech. Geopolitical shifts and rising “friend-shoring”, where supply chains are relocated to friendly nations, further enhance its strategic edge.

In sum, MP Materials stands stronger, more relevant, and more essential than ever.

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