Tokyo Eyes Dedicated Ship for Deep Sea Rare Earths Mining Japan's ambitious plan to establish itself as a major global supplier of rare earths by tapping into its vast maritime exclusive economic zone (EEZ) has raised concerns about the country's over reliance on imported strategic minerals, particularly from China.
The risks associated with this reliance are well documented. Historically, Japan's economy has been vulnerable to disruptions in supply chains and pricing controversies due to its dependence on imported raw materials.
This vulnerability was starkly illustrated during the 2010 11 rare earths embargo imposed by China on Japan.