As Japan’s Finance Minister Satsuki Katayama recently emphasized, working together is key. She argues Japan needs to coordinate with the United States and Europe to develop a robust economy-friendly supply chain for rare earths. Katayama showed her concerns in an interview with Nikkei on January 9, 2024. She underscored the potential way that China can wield its control of rare earths as an economic blade against other countries.
During the interview, which was published on January 10, 2026, at 03:45 JST, Katayama highlighted the urgent need for Japan to diminish its dependence on China for these critical minerals. She noted that China’s stranglehold on rare earths has introduced significant instability for Japanese enterprises. These sectors of the economy rely heavily on these materials to both produce goods and innovate.
In broadening that picture, Katayama envisions a market of democracies. He hopes to create a partnership between the United States and Europe to provide a predictable and secure supply chain for rare earths. This restrictive strategy is motivated by a desire to protect Japanese economic interests. It strives to minimize hazards related to geopolitical strains that could occur as a result of China’s supremacy in this area.
The finance minister’s comments reflect a broader trend in Japan’s economic policy, shifting focus toward enhancing national security through resource independence. By fostering partnerships with Western allies, Katayama believes that Japan can safeguard its economy and ensure a steady flow of essential materials.
Rare earths are essential to many industries, such as electronics, renewable energy, and defense. Today, their supply chain—colloquially known as the “Taiwan issue”—has become the focal point of international relations. This narrative has changed particularly in the context of increasing estrangement between China and the West.
The article includes Katayama’s comments and highlights this stunning photo by Manami Yamada. This unique combination underscores how crucial this issue is in today’s political climate. As Japan navigates its economic future, the finance minister’s proactive approach underscores a commitment to reducing vulnerabilities linked to foreign dependency.