Kuala Lumpur: China is set to share its rare earth processing technology with Malaysia, a development expected to significantly enhance the value of Malaysian mineral exports by shifting from raw material sales to processed goods.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan highlighted the economic benefits of this technology transfer, stating that processing rare earths within Malaysia could boost national revenue and provide additional benefits to state governments that have jurisdiction over mineral resources. President Xi Jinping conveyed China’s willingness to share this technology during a recent meeting with Malaysian officials, underscoring the potential value increase of rare earths by 10 to 15 times when processed, compared to selling them raw.

Xi’s three-day state visit to Malaysia, which was initiated at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, marks his second official visit in 12 years. The visit underscores the strengthening of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Xi’s first visit in 2013.