Australia has ordered six shareholders to divest their stakes in rare earths company Northern Minerals Ltd., the second such intervention in two years. The Treasury mandated the sales within two weeks, targeting investors linked to China and Hong Kong to shield the critical mineral asset.

This move continues Canberra's assertive stance on foreign investment in strategic resources. The directive affects five shareholders registered in China or Hong Kong and one in the British Virgin Islands, underscoring heightened scrutiny of Beijing's reach into Australia's supply chains.

The intervention directly impacts Northern Minerals' market position and investor base. By forcing the exit of China-linked capital, Australia aims to secure its rare earths production independence, a sector vital for defense and technology manufacturing.