Solvay expands La Rochelle rare-earth plant for €15-20m

Belgian chemicals group Solvay announced on 29 July 2026, alongside its half-year results, additional strategic investments of €15–20 m to expand the separation capacity of its French plant in La Rochelle. The company describes the site as one of the largest rare-earth separation facilities outside China. While around €10 m had previously gone into producing light rare earths, the new tranche targets the more demanding production of heavy rare earths. It follows a letter of intent announced in early June with Australian company Viridis Mining and Minerals to secure rare-earth supplies from Brazil from 2028. The report gives no figure for new jobs.