Japan Expands Critical Mineral Exploration Partnerships in Africa to Diversify Supply Chain
In a strategic effort to reduce dependency on China for crucial minerals essential in high-tech industries, Japan has inked agreements with five African nations.
The agreements were signed to facilitate the exploration and extraction of critical minerals like rare earths, cobalt, lithium, and nickel, aiding Japan’s drive to secure its supply chain.
Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Yasutoshi Nishimura, accompanied by Ichiro Takahara, Chairman and CEO of Japan’s state-owned Organization for Metals and Energy Security, embarked on a week-long journey to Namibia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Zambia, Angola, and Madagascar.
Their mission led to significant agreements with each country. In Namibia, partnerships will focus on rare earth mineral deposits, while Angola will witness trade cooperation advancements.
The delegation’s endeavors in the DRC resulted in agreements securing exploration rights for minerals vital to electric vehicles, such as cobalt, lithium, and copper. Zambia witnessed the signing of a joint statement on mining sector collaboration.
Meanwhile, Madagascar’s agreements center around participation in the nation’s nickel and cobalt mining and refining ventures.
Minister Nishimura emphasized Japan’s leadership role in shaping concrete strategies to advance exploration, mine development, smelting operations, technological alternatives, and emergency stockpiles.
These agreements position Japanese companies to expand their African operations, backed by government support. This expansion strategy aims to diversify Japan’s sources of critical minerals, bolstering economic security and fostering private investment.
Japan’s proactive stance seeks to ensure a resilient supply chain for its high-tech industries, ultimately lessening its reliance on any single source.
