Greenland Approves Tanbreez Mining Plan

Tanbreez, in southern Greenland, ranks among the largest undeveloped heavy rare earth deposits in the world. On October 5, 2026, Critical Metals Corp announced that it had received formal approval from the Government of Greenland of its Tanbreez mining plan through 2050, clearing a major hurdle for the project. The approval comes as the United States steps up its efforts to develop critical mineral supply chains outside China.

In this round of Quick Takes, experts from the Belfer Center's Arctic Initiative comment.

Quick Take by

Alexandra Middleton

Extraction of critical minerals is increasing due to rising demands and the imperative to secure sovereign supply non-reliant on Chinese commodities. Arctic deposits are becoming important assets for access to critical minerals. The Tanbreez Project, located in South Greenland, is an example of increasing control by multinationals over Arctic critical minerals. In April 2026, Critical Metals Corp., which is NASDAQ-listed in the United States, expanded its ownership of the Tanbreez rare-earth project from 42% to 92.5%. The official approval of the Tanbreez Project by the Government of Greenland on September 29, 2026, has been anticipated and provides more certainty for investors.

However, the questions that need to be asked are whether this development is part of a race for Arctic critical minerals, whereby, in the name of urgency to extract critical minerals, sustainability aspects may become sidelined. In accessing impact of Tanbreez Project on Greenlandic society and economy important considerations are how much value would remain in Greenland, will project lead to new infrastructure, new local jobs and overall welfare of local communities.

Quick Take by

Henry Lee

At a time when China has demonstrated a willingness to use rare earths as a lever to pressure the United States, the Tanbreez mine has the potential to significantly enhance access to these critical minerals.

Mining operations in Greenland face substantial challenges, but this project has several major factors in its favor. First, it is located at the southern tip of the island, where the coastal waters are ice-free most of the year. Thus, ships can come and go almost twelve months a year. Second, it is located near hydroelectric sites which can provide the project with inexpensive power. Third, the developers have decades of experience raising funds for mining operations, primarily in Western Australia. Fourth, the project will extract some of the most strategically important minerals, most of which are in high demand from customers, including key defense companies.

The Tanbreez project still must obtain additional permits, raise the capital, construct the mine, and operate it. All of these steps are fraught with challenges, but compared with many other proposed mining projects in Greenland, this one has strong potential to be a success.