U.S. monitors Dominican Republic’s progress in rare earth development

Santo Domingo.- U.S. officials praised the Ministry of Energy and Mines of the Dominican Republic for its rigorous approach and rapid progress in the rare earth exploration project in Pedernales. Albert DeGarmo, manager of the Energy and Minerals Governance Program at the U.S. Department of State, highlighted the government’s consolidated technical capacity and the accelerated pace of the project during a visit to the Ávila Fiscal Reserve alongside a U.S. delegation.

Minister Joel Santos emphasized President Luis Abinader’s support, noting that all necessary resources have been provided to ensure the project meets its timeline. Santos highlighted strict adherence to environmental and social protocols and outlined that resource determination is expected this year, with studies to declare a reserve planned by the end of 2026. He stressed that collaboration, adaptability, and adherence to protocols are essential to the project’s success.

The visit also included discussions on mineral processing methodology and next steps, reinforcing the Dominican Republic’s intent to maintain strong cooperation with the U.S. government.