G7 Countries Invest in Rare Earth Metal Extraction to Reduce Dependence on China

Japan and the United States have initiated a joint study on the potential development of rare earth element deposits in the waters around Minamitorishima Island, located 1,900 kilometers southeast of Tokyo in the Pacific Ocean. This initiative became a key topic during Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaiichi’s meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump last week. Both countries signed a framework agreement aimed at ensuring uninterrupted supplies of rare earth metals and reducing the impact of China’s dominance in the raw materials market for high-tech sectors – from the automotive industry to defense.

This is reported by AgroReview

Japan Strengthens Economic and Maritime Security

Significant deposits of sediment containing valuable rare earth elements have been discovered in the waters near Minamitorishima Island. The Japanese government is actively promoting a national project to develop the extraction of these resources, which is part of a broader strategy to enhance the country’s maritime and economic security. This move is intended not only to ensure stability in supplying the industry with raw materials but also to strengthen Japan’s position in the global high-tech market.

Canada Joins the Strategic Investment Initiative

Canada has also recently announced substantial investments in critical minerals and new partnerships with allies. The value of the projects amounts to approximately $4.6 billion. The passage of the military production act will allow Ottawa to build strategic reserves of essential minerals, mirroring similar steps already taken in the United States. Canada’s investments in this area are also part of increased defense spending within NATO, which has been discussed at the highest levels.

“Countries have signed a framework agreement to ensure the supply of rare earths to counter China’s dominance over materials used in a wide range of high-tech industries – from cars to fighter jets.”