Greenland Resources Advanced Malmbjerg Mineral Testing
The firm has collected ore and water samples for a feasibility study backed by Canadian government funding.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Geography
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Greenland Resources has transported over eight tonnes of drill core and 14 tonnes of water from Greenland to Canada for metallurgical testing. The program seeks to evaluate the potential recovery of rare earth elements and magnesium from the Malmbjerg ore body.
Why it matters
The study aims to reduce reliance on non-domestic mineral sources, as China currently controls 89% of global magnesium production and 69% of rare earth output. The European Commission has already designated the Malmbjerg project as a priority initiative for the region.
The study involves testing 8 tonnes of drill core and 14 tonnes of water, including both saline and fresh samples, to verify potential byproduct yields. The project received a $7 million grant from Natural Resources Canada to support these operations.
The players
Greenland Resources
The company is a mining explorer focused on developing the Malmbjerg molybdenum deposit in eastern Greenland.
Natural Resources Canada
This is a federal department responsible for the sustainable development of Canada's natural resources and energy sector.
European Commission
This is the politically independent executive arm of the European Union responsible for proposing legislation and managing common policies.
The details
Collected materials were shipped via the Port of Reykjavik and are slated to arrive at SGS Lakefield in Ontario by October 12, 2026. The testing program is designed to assess the viability of continuous pilot-scale operations based on initial bench-scale results.
Timeline
December 3, 2025: European Commission designated Malmbjerg a priority project.
October 12, 2026: Materials are scheduled to arrive at SGS Lakefield.
March 2028: Test program is expected to conclude.
The Big Picture
This effort marks a departure from reliance on singular dominant market suppliers for critical minerals like magnesium and rare earth elements. The project follows the pattern set by the EU's Critical Raw Materials Act to reduce dependency on third-country mineral supplies.
The success of this feasibility study could eventually lead to new, non-Chinese sources of magnesium and rare earth elements for global manufacturing. This potentially impacts future consumer costs for high-tech components and industrial materials that rely on these minerals.
The takeaway
Securing domestic or allied-country mineral supplies is a central focus of modern international trade strategy for critical electronics and manufacturing. Diversifying these sources remains a significant long-term challenge for global industrial stability.
What happens next
The project is expected to continue through March 2028, with results from the testing at SGS Lakefield to be released as they become available.
Further reading
For broader context on global mineral distribution and extraction, visit the Geography section.
More information
View the latest project updates in the Company Canadian regulatory filings.
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