Japan and Australia Strengthen Rare-Earth Elements Alliance

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi plans an Australia visit to discuss rare-earth element supply chains and safe Strait of Hormuz navigation. The visit follows Japan's rare-earths deal with France, amid efforts to reduce reliance on China's supply chain dominance. Discussions will also cover Indo-Pacific initiatives.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is embarking on a diplomatic visit to Australia, with an agenda focused on bolstering supply chains for rare-earth elements and ensuring safe maritime navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a report by the Nikkei newspaper on Friday.

This visit comes on the heels of a rare-earths agreement between Japan and France, as reported by Japan's public broadcaster NHK on Wednesday. The deal marks a strategic effort by Japan and Western allies to reduce their heavy dependency on China, which currently dominates the global supply of these essential minerals.

Additionally, Japanese and Australian leaders are set to deliberate on the 'free and open Indo-Pacific' strategy. With Western nations seeking to diversify their sources, Australian miners have seized opportunities, highlighted by Lynas' potential deal with South Korea's LS Eco Energy signed last week. The Australian resources minister revealed that France plans to invest in significant Australian mineral projects.

(With inputs from agencies.)