UPDATE 1.50pm: A controversial Malaysian plant run by rare earths miner Lynas has produced its first products for sale.

The Lynas Advanced Materials Plant began production in November, after long delays caused by legal action brought by opponents to its operation, who are concerned about pollution and possible health threats.

Lynas mines rare earths - metallic elements used in products ranging from digital televisions, mp3 players and fluorescent light bulbs - from Mt Weld near Laverton.

Lynas said the processing plant in Malaysia had produced its first rare earths products for customers.