Tokyo, Japan – August 2025:
Japan is intensifying its global search for rare earth supplies, turning to Africa in a strategic bid to secure long-term access to critical minerals essential for clean energy technologies, advanced electronics, and defense manufacturing.
At a recent industry forum in Tokyo, Japanese officials revealed ongoing negotiations with multiple African nations—particularly in West and Southern Africa—where deposits of rare earth elements (REEs) such as neodymium, dysprosium, and praseodymium are abundant. These minerals are indispensable for the production of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, wind turbine magnets, semiconductors, and military technologies.
Why Africa Matters in Rare Earth Supply
Africa is increasingly emerging as the world’s next frontier for critical mineral development. Countries such as Tanzania, Burundi, Malawi, Madagascar, South Africa, and Nigeria host significant rare earth reserves, many of which remain underdeveloped.
Japan, whose technology-driven economy relies heavily on external sources for raw materials, is seeking to diversify away from China’s dominance in the rare earth market. China currently controls more than 60% of global rare earth production and nearly 90% of processing capacity, giving it an outsized influence over supply chains.
With rising geopolitical tensions and growing demand from the clean energy transition, Japan is taking proactive steps to secure alternative suppliers.
Japan-Africa Partnerships in Motion
Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) has initiated high-level dialogues with African governments, focusing on investment in mining, local processing, and infrastructure development. Officials say Japan is ready to offer:
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Technology transfer and capacity building to strengthen Africa’s mineral beneficiation industries.
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Long-term offtake agreements guaranteeing purchase of REEs for Japanese manufacturers.
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Sustainable mining practices to ensure environmental and social responsibility.
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Financing partnerships via the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and Japanese private investors.
Industry experts believe these partnerships could help Africa unlock its vast mineral wealth, while also enabling Japan to stabilize its critical supply chains for decades to come.
Rare Earths and the Global Clean Energy Race
Demand for rare earth elements is expected to surge by over 400% by 2040, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). With the EV industry booming and renewable energy installations accelerating, the global race for REE security is heating up.
Japan’s latest outreach reflects a broader trend of advanced economies forging strategic mineral partnerships with Africa. Similar moves have been made by the United States, the European Union, and South Korea—all seeking to reduce their reliance on China.
Opportunities and Challenges Ahead
While Africa holds immense potential, challenges remain. Many African mining jurisdictions face regulatory bottlenecks, infrastructure gaps, political instability, and illegal mining activities. For Japan’s strategy to succeed, sustainable governance frameworks and mutually beneficial agreements will be key.
For African nations, however, Japan’s interest could signal a transformative moment—offering not only export revenues but also opportunities for local processing, job creation, and industrial growth.
