The key metals research project, to be carried out by the Institute of Geology and Geophysics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Baogang Group and China University of Geosciences, was approved by the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

It is the first national-level project approved since the mineral resource comprehensive utilization workstation in Bayan Obo mining district was unveiled at the beginning of the year.

Rare earth is an important raw material for national security and the development of emerging industries.

The project will include research into the spatial distribution of ore bodies and develop comprehensive geophysical exploration technology for ore bodies.

In addition, the national "Bayan Obo Polymetallic Resources Green and Efficient Development and Utilization Integrated Demonstration" project declared by Baotou was officially approved, with total funding of 112.99 million yuan ($16.22 million).