Dominican Republic seeks rare earths partnership with South Africa

The Dominican Republic is exploring a strategic partnership with South Africa to boost its mining sector, particularly in the exploration and development of rare earth elements—vital for clean energy and technological innovation. The initiative is led by the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and MSMEs (MICM), with Minister Víctor “Ito” Bisonó currently on an official visit to South Africa to strengthen bilateral cooperation.

During a key meeting with South African Minister of Energy and Mines, Gwede Mantashe, Bisonó emphasized the potential of rare earths to drive industrial, scientific, and commercial progress in the Dominican Republic. The dialogue, coordinated with the Dominican Ministry of Energy and Mines under Minister Joel Santos, focused on establishing collaborative frameworks for sustainable and responsible mining practices.

The ministers agreed to maintain a technical dialogue to exchange knowledge, technology, and best practices. They also discussed joint business missions involving EMIDOM, the Dominican state-owned rare earth exploration company. Additionally, the Dominican Republic is considering participation in the prestigious Mining Indaba 2025 conference in Cape Town.