Story perspectives

Japan's Strategy: Reducing Rare Earths Reliance Amid Challenges

2/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 4, 2026, the Center for Asia Policy Studies at Brookings hosted a workshop on Japan's critical minerals strategy, highlighting vulnerabilities from China's embargoes.
Japan reduced reliance on Chinese rare earths from 85% in 2009 to 58% in 2020 through technology and alternative sourcing.
Challenges remain for middle and heavy rare earths due to high refining costs.
Private companies face structural challenges aligning with Pax Silica and government goals.

1 of 1

Story summary

On February 4, 2026, the Center for Asia Policy Studies at Brookings hosted a workshop on Japan's critical minerals strategy, highlighting vulnerabilities from China's embargoes.
Japan reduced reliance on Chinese rare earths from 85% in 2009 to 58% in 2020 through technology and alternative sourcing.
Challenges remain for middle and heavy rare earths due to high refining costs.
Private companies face structural challenges aligning with Pax Silica and government goals.