The Financial Times reports that Japan's vulnerability stems from China's tightening control over the global supply of essential rare earths. To prevent an industrial collapse, Tokyo is seeking diplomatic intervention through Washington to restore a steady flow of the mineral from China.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Japan’s Yttrium Supplies to Run Out in Months After China Squeeze
Commodities13 hours ago
The Japanese government has petitioned the United States to help pressure Beijing into easing its restrictions on rare earth metal imports. Tokyo is within months of exhausting its reserves of yttrium, a critical mineral, after China tightened its supply. The shortage threatens to force a total shutdown of the Japanese manufacturing sector if new supplies are not secured.
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