MRG Metals Reports Up to 4.85% TREO at Newly Acquired Garies Project
MRG Metals has expanded its rare earth portfolio through the acquisition of the high-grade Garies Rare Earth Project in South Africa, while also progressing key projects in Mozambique, signalling a diversified growth strategy in critical minerals.
- Acquisition of Garies Rare Earth Project adds high-grade rare earth assets and experienced executives
- Bulk sampling at Garies shows up to 4.85% total rare earth oxides (TREO), with strong monazite content
- Exploration at Adriano–Fotinho corridor confirms multiple high-grade alluvial rare earth targets
- Mozambique Heavy Mineral Sands Joint Venture advances with regulatory approvals and production planning
- Completed $0.73 million placement to fund project development and exploration activities
Strategic Expansion into High-Grade Rare Earths
MRG Metals Limited (ASX – MRQ) has marked a significant milestone in its growth trajectory with the acquisition of the Garies Rare Earth Project in South Africa. This high-grade asset, located near the renowned Steenkampskraal Monazite Mine, brings not only promising mineralisation but also the addition of seasoned mining executives Jacob Deysel and Ian Egan to MRG’s leadership team. The acquisition, completed in January 2026, signals MRG’s transition from a single-project focus to a diversified portfolio player in the critical minerals sector.
Bulk sampling at Garies has returned impressive grades of up to 4.85% total rare earth oxides (TREO), equating to approximately 8% monazite content. The rare earth element mix is particularly favourable, featuring neodymium and praseodymium at around 24.1% of TREO, dysprosium and terbium at 1.4%, and heavy rare earth oxides comprising about 9%. These elements are critical for high-performance permanent magnets used in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and defence applications, underpinning the project’s potential value.
Advancing Exploration in Mozambique
Alongside the Garies acquisition, MRG continues to make strides in Mozambique with its Adriano–Fotinho Rare Earth Corridor and the Heavy Mineral Sands Joint Venture. Exploration at Adriano has confirmed multiple high-grade alluvial targets, with 100% of 37 auger holes returning visible heavy mineral concentrate and several samples exceeding 6% total heavy minerals. This supports the interpretation of a district-scale rare earth system with both alluvial and hard-rock potential.
The adjacent Fotinho licence exploration has commenced, aiming to test the continuity of mineralisation observed at Adriano. Together, these projects form a connected corridor that could underpin long-term rare earth supply in a strategically important region.
Progress in Heavy Mineral Sands and Funding
MRG’s Heavy Mineral Sands Joint Venture in Mozambique, underpinned by a 2.39-billion-tonne JORC resource, is advancing towards initial production targeted within 12 to 18 months. The joint venture partner Sinowin Lithium has deployed funds to support development activities, and regulatory processes are progressing, including the recent approval of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment for Corridor Central.
To support these developments, MRG completed a $0.73 million placement, attracting institutional and sophisticated investors. Directors from both MRG and Sheerartar Minerals have also committed additional funds, demonstrating confidence in the company’s strategy. These funds will be directed towards advancing the Garies project towards a mining licence, ongoing exploration in Mozambique, and general working capital.
Looking Ahead
MRG is poised for a busy 2026, with near-term milestones including the delivery of a maiden JORC resource for Garies, submission of environmental assessments, and mining licence applications. The company’s modular, chemical-free processing approach at Garies aligns with ESG principles, potentially offering a low-capital, scalable development pathway.
With a strengthened executive team, diversified asset base, and committed funding, MRG Metals is positioning itself as a notable player in the rare earths and heavy mineral sands sectors, sectors critical to the global transition to clean energy and advanced technologies.
Bottom Line?
MRG’s diversified rare earth and mineral sands portfolio, bolstered by strategic acquisitions and exploration success, sets the stage for value-defining milestones in 2026.
Questions in the middle?
- What will the maiden JORC resource reveal about the scale and grade of the Garies project?
- How quickly can MRG advance permitting and production at Garies given its favourable location and infrastructure?
- What are the potential market impacts of MRG’s expanding rare earth supply amid global demand for critical minerals?
