Resources & Minerals

A new mineral called Takanawaite discovered in Mt. Takanawa, Ehime Prefecture contains rare earth elements. However, commercial development faces three major barriers: mining volume, stable supply, and radioactive waste processing. This article explores Japan's path to becoming a "resource power" alongside the Minamitorishima seabed development project.

China threatens rare earth export bans following PM Takaichi's Taiwan comments. After 15 years since the 2010 Senkaku crisis, Japan's preparedness through supply chain diversification is now the model for the US, Europe, and Australia accelerating their "de-risking" from China.

Japan's JAMSTEC will conduct the world's first rare earth mud mining test from 6,000m deep ocean off Minamitorishima in January 2026. A historic project key to Japan's economic security strategy to reduce dependence on China for critical minerals.