Building a rare metal procurement network from Australia, Japan is promoting supply diversification

GateUser-40edb63b · 2026-02-27T18:11:36+00:00

Japan is rapidly establishing new procurement routes for rare metals to support its high-tech industry. Sojitz, a major trading company, plans to significantly increase imports from Australia, expanding from 2 to up to 6 types of rare metals by mid-2027. Key to this strategy is Sojitz's partnership with Australian company Lynas, which will ensure stable supply through mining and refining operations. A new refining facility in Malaysia will enhance the supply chain, bolstering Japan's competitiveness in the high-tech sector.

GateUser-40edb63b

2026-02-27 18:11:36

Abstract generation in progress

To ensure a stable supply of rare metals supporting Japan’s high-tech industry, the construction of new procurement routes is rapidly advancing. According to Jin10, Japan’s major general trading company Sojitz plans to significantly expand its procurement of rare metals from Australia. Currently limited to two types of elements, the imported items are scheduled to increase to over six types by mid-2027, with samarium imports set to begin anew in April.

Strategic Partnership Leveraging Australian Resources

The partnership between Australia’s largest rare metal company, Lynas, and Sojitz is key to this diversification strategy. Sojitz is a partial investor in Lynas and involved in mining operations in Western Australia to ensure stable supply. Through their collaboration, they aim to establish an integrated system from mining to refining, moving beyond mere import procurement.

Full Operation Expected with the Completion of Malaysian Facility

Lynas is currently constructing a separation and refining facility in Malaysia, which is scheduled to become operational soon. Once completed, this facility will highly refine the rare metals mined in Australia, significantly improving supply to Japan and other countries. The diversification of supply sources promoted by Sojitz is not just a corporate strategy but a movement to secure vital competitiveness for Japan’s entire high-tech industry.

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