Researchers and leaders of the Universidad del Caribe (UNICARIBE) and its Research Center CAYEI, have published a Technical Report entitled “Intelligence Report on Critical Materials – Rare Earths” as an open access white paper to be used by academics, investors, government and companies interested in the topic of Critical Materials and Rare Earths in the Dominican Republic. Universities play a critical role in the development of this type of projects; in fact, the mission of universities is to train the professionals required by this industry, with the requirements and profile of graduates aligned to the demands of the labor market.

The intelligence report on critical materials and rare earths highlights the importance of these resources for the transition to clean energy and advanced technologies. Rare earths, composed of 17 chemical elements, are essential to manufacture magnets, catalysts, electronic devices, semiconductors, electric batteries, etc.. According to the documents reviewed in this report, the Dominican Republic has significant potential in the exploitation of these materials, especially in the Pedernales region, where traces of rare earths have been identified in bauxites. The report stresses the need for an efficient mining value chain, from exploration to commercialization, using technologies such as automation and artificial intelligence to improve sustainability and reduce costs. It also emphasizes the importance of economic diversification, integrating advanced manufacturing processes and attracting international investment. Mining in the Dominican Republic not only contributes to gross domestic product (GDP), but also generates employment and regional development. However, investment in infrastructure, technology, and training of specialized talent is required to meet future challenges. The report concludes that responsible and sustainable exploitation of these resources could position the Dominican Republic as a key player in the global supply chain of strategic materials, boosting its economic and technological development.

Ricardo A. Ramírez-Mendoza, Julián C. Pena-Bermúdez, Emilio Mínguez Torres and José Alejandro Aybar M. Critical Materials Intelligence Report – Rare Earths; February 2025, DOI: 10.13140/RG.2.2.31538.93121, Report number: 012025

Author:
Phd. Ricardo Ramírez Mendoza – Vice Rector of Strategy and Growth.
Eng. Julián Peña – Director of the Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Management and Renewable Energies and CAYEI-UNICARIBE Research Center.