Zheng Quan Shi Bao·2025-07-10 12:00Core Viewpoint - The recent announcements from Northern Rare Earth and Baotou Steel indicate a significant increase in the price of rare earth concentrate, reflecting a broader trend of rising prices in the rare earth market driven by supply constraints and increased demand [1][2][3]. Company Performance - Northern Rare Earth expects a substantial increase in net profit for the first half of 2025, projecting a net profit of 0.9 billion to 0.96 billion yuan, which represents a year-on-year increase of 855 million to 915 million yuan, equating to a growth rate of 1882.54% to 2014.71% [3]. - The company also anticipates a non-net profit of 0.88 billion to 0.94 billion yuan, with an increase of 865 million to 925 million yuan, reflecting a growth rate of 5538.33% to 5922.76% [3]. - The performance surge is attributed to rising rare earth prices and improved operational efficiency, with the company achieving record production and sales [3]. Market Trends - The price of rare earth concentrate has been on an upward trajectory, with the proposed price for Q3 2025 set at 19,109 yuan per ton, up from 18,825 yuan in Q2 and 18,618 yuan in Q1 of 2025 [2]. - The demand for rare earth elements is expected to grow due to advancements in industries such as robotics and electric vehicles, leading to increased global demand for medium and heavy rare earths [4]. - The Ministry of Commerce has indicated a commitment to maintaining the stability of the global supply chain for rare earths, with ongoing approvals for export licenses contributing to market activity [4]. Industry Outlook - Analysts from Guotou Securities predict that the price of rare earths will continue to rise, particularly for praseodymium and neodymium, due to supply chain concerns following export controls [5]. - The demand for rare earths is expected to remain strong, driven by sectors such as new energy vehicles and wind power, with a potential supply-demand imbalance for praseodymium and neodymium [5]. - The overall market for rare earths is anticipated to experience a tightening supply situation, which could lead to further price increases [5]. Resource Distribution - Rare earth elements are classified into light and heavy categories, with heavy rare earths being rarer and more unevenly distributed, primarily concentrated in China [6]. - China holds over 80% of the global heavy rare earth reserves, with significant deposits located in provinces such as Jiangxi, Fujian, Guangdong, and Yunnan [6].