Energy Fuels Inc. (NYSE American: UUUU) (TSX: EFR) has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Germany-based Vacuumschmelze GmbH & Co. KG and its affiliates (collectively, “VAC”) from Ara Partners in a cash-and-stock transaction valued at approximately $1.9 billion. The acquisition is designed to create a fully integrated rare earth supply chain platform spanning mining, processing, metals and alloy production, and permanent magnet manufacturing. This move strengthens Western access to critical materials used in defense, automotive, robotics, data centers, and industrial applications.
VAC brings over 100 years of advanced magnetics expertise, more than 400 patents, and manufacturing operations across North America, Europe, and Asia. Notably, VAC's recently commissioned permanent magnet facility in Sumter, South Carolina, adds significant domestic production capacity. Energy Fuels stated that the combination, alongside its planned acquisition of Australian Strategic Materials Ltd., positions the company as one of the first Western suppliers with commercial capabilities across the entire rare earth value chain—from mining and separation through finished magnet production. The transaction is expected to close in early 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions.
The deal underscores the growing strategic importance of rare earth magnets, which are critical components in electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military systems. Currently, China dominates the global supply chain for rare earth elements and magnets, posing risks for Western nations. By integrating VAC's advanced magnet manufacturing with its own upstream operations, Energy Fuels aims to reduce dependence on Chinese supply and secure a reliable source for these essential materials.
Energy Fuels is a leading U.S. critical materials company specializing in uranium, rare earth elements, heavy mineral sands, vanadium, and medical isotopes. The company owns the White Mesa Mill in Utah, the only fully licensed conventional uranium mill operating in the U.S., where it also processes rare earth elements. Additionally, Energy Fuels is developing three heavy mineral sands and rare earths projects: the Vara Mada Project in Madagascar, Bahia Project in Brazil, and Donald Project in Australia. The company's shares trade on the NYSE American and TSX.
For the full press release, visit this link. More information about Energy Fuels is available in the company’s newsroom at IBN.fm/UUUU. Rocks & Stocks is a specialized communications platform delivering insights into the mining industry and is part of the Dynamic Brand Portfolio. For more details, see Rocks & Stocks Disclaimer.
