The Lynas Rare Earths Ltd (ASX: LYC) share price is pushing higher in Wednesday morning trade.
At the time of writing, shares in the rare earths producer are up 13.94% to $20.19.
The move follows an announcement released after market close on Tuesday outlining an updated long-term agreement with a key Japanese partner.
Here is what investors need to know.
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Lynas secures long-term Japanese supply deal
Lynas revealed it has updated its marketing agreement with Japan Australia Rare Earths (JARE), extending the partnership through to 2038.
The revised agreement strengthens Lynas' position as a major supplier of rare earth materials to Japan's industrial sector.
Under the terms of the deal, JARE has committed to purchasing 5,000 tonnes per year of NdPr (neodymium and praseodymium). These rare earth elements are important components used in powerful magnets found in electric vehicles, wind turbines, robotics, and advanced electronics.
In addition to this fixed volume, JARE will also purchase 50% of all heavy rare earth oxides produced by Lynas for the Japanese market.
The arrangement effectively locks in long-term demand for a significant portion of Lynas' production.
Pricing structure includes floor and upside sharing
The updated agreement also introduces a market-linked pricing model.
Sales will be based on a market referenced price with a floor of US$110 per kilogram of NdPr. This provides Lynas with some protection if rare earths prices weaken.
At the same time, the agreement includes an upside sharing mechanism. If prices rise above US$150 per kilogram, a portion of the additional revenue will be shared with JARE.
Lynas also confirmed that the upside sharing payments will be capped at US$10 million per year.
Management said this pricing structure helps reduce price volatility while still allowing the company to benefit from stronger market conditions.
Strategic partnership strengthens supply chain
The agreement continues a long-running partnership between Lynas and Japanese organisations, including JOGMEC and Sojitz.
Japan has been working for years to diversify its rare earths supply away from China. Lynas plays an important role in that strategy as one of the few major producers outside China.
Lynas' Chief Executive Officer, Amanda Lacaze, said the updated agreement builds on more than a decade of collaboration.
She noted the partnership has helped support investment in processing capacity and ensures a reliable supply of critical minerals to the Japanese industry.
The revised agreement also follows Lynas achieving first production of separated heavy rare earth oxides in 2025, thereby strengthening its strategic importance.
What it means for investors
Lynas Rare Earths is one of the world's largest producers of rare earths materials outside China.
Demand for these materials continues to grow as industries expand across electric vehicles, renewable energy, defence technologies, and advanced manufacturing.
By securing a long-term supply agreement with Japan through to 2038, Lynas has improved visibility over future sales.
That stronger outlook appears to be the reason investors are bidding the Lynas share price higher today.
