TOKYO – Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is set to visit Australia to strengthen supply chains for rare-earth elements and enhance cooperation on safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, according to a Nikkei report on April 3.
The trip follows Tokyo’s recent rare earths agreement with France, announced by NHK on April 1, as Japan and Western allies intensify efforts to reduce reliance on China, the dominant global producer and supplier of these critical minerals.
Discussions between Takaichi and Australian leaders will also cover the “free and open Indo-Pacific” initiative, reflecting shared strategic goals in the region.
Australia’s mining sector has benefited from this diversification trend, with Lynas securing a potential rare earths deal with South Korea’s LS Eco Energy last week. The country’s resources minister noted on April 2 that France is poised to invest in Australian critical mineral projects, bolstering bilateral ties.
This high-level engagement underscores growing international collaboration to secure vital resources amid geopolitical tensions.