United States – Japan Framework for Securing the Supply of Critical Minerals and Rare Earths through Mining and Processing

Key Points

• The United States and Japan team up to secure minerals for batteries, phones, and defense gear, aiming to cut reliance on risky sources.
• Governments and companies will fund mines and processing with loans, grants, insurance, and purchase deals to boost supply and new projects.
• Agencies plan to speed up permits for mining and processing and work on fair pricing rules to push back on unfair trade practices.
• A rapid response team and joint stockpiles will manage shortages, while both countries review risky mine and refinery sales on national security grounds.
• More supply could lower costs and reduce delays for electric cars and electronics, but new mines may bring local environmental and community concerns.