Japan Eyes Australia for Rare Earth Supply as PM Sanae Takaichi Seeks to Reduce China Dependence

TOKYO, April — Japan is intensifying efforts to secure alternative sources of critical minerals as Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi prepares to visit Australia to discuss cooperation on rare earth supply chains and maritime security.

The planned visit highlights Tokyo’s growing concern over reliance on China for rare earth elements—critical materials used in advanced technologies such as electric vehicles, wind turbines, smartphones, and military equipment.

Rare earth elements are essential components for modern high-tech manufacturing and clean energy industries, making them strategically important for countries seeking technological and industrial independence.

Japan’s diplomatic push comes shortly after Tokyo signed a rare earth cooperation agreement with France, part of broader efforts to diversify supply chains and reduce vulnerability to geopolitical tensions involving China.

During her upcoming visit to Australia, Takaichi is expected to discuss strengthening cooperation on mining, processing, and supply of rare earth materials. The talks may also include discussions on maritime security and maintaining safe navigation through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

Australia has emerged as one of the most promising partners for Japan due to its significant reserves of critical minerals and its advanced mining sector. The country hosts several major rare earth producers and is considered one of the few alternatives to China in the global supply chain.

Japan and Western allies have increasingly sought to diversify their supply sources because China currently dominates global rare earth production and refining capacity. This dominance has raised concerns among industrialized nations about potential supply disruptions during geopolitical disputes.

The initiative is also part of a broader strategic framework promoting a “free and open Indo-Pacific”, which encourages closer economic and security cooperation among countries in the region.

Analysts say Japan’s move to strengthen partnerships with Australia and other allies reflects a long-term strategy to secure critical mineral supply chains amid rising global competition for resources essential to the technology and energy sectors.

If successful, the partnership could further reshape the global rare earth market by strengthening alternative supply networks and reducing China’s dominance in this strategically important industry