Abstract: The present invention provides methods for the isolation and production of magnesium products from leaching of laterite material with acid. A magnesium compound is formed by downstream treatment of a leach stream after at least one of nickel or cobalt have been brought into solution. Magnesite is then obtained by adding at least one of alkali metal or alkaline earth metal carbonate to the leach stream. The magnesite may be converted into magnesium chloride by adding an acid, such as HCL.