Japan seeks to release rare earths, 10 other critical items from China's grip

Dec 22 (Nikkei) - Japan designated semiconductors, batteries and nine other items as strategically critical material on Tuesday, in a bid to reduce the exposure of those supply chains to China.

"This is the first step in advancing the resiliency of critical supply chains to safeguard the survival, livelihoods and economic activities of our citizens," Economic Security Minister Sanae Takaichi told reporters.

Strengthening supply chains represents one of the four planks in economic security legislation passed in May. The provisions direct the country to develop alternative supplies of important resources and products like chips and medical supplies, as well as stockpile material and find new suppliers.

Standing behind this push are risks connected to China, especially the looming potential of a Taiwan crisis.

For example, 90% of injectable antimicrobial agents sold in Japan are of the beta lactam type. However, almost all of the raw materials for beta lactam antimicrobials come from China. In 2019, Japan experienced an interruption in supplies, which forced hospitals to postpone surgeries. ...continue reading

Crane Injures 4 Women at Osaka Music Festival

A camera crane collapsed at a music festival venue in Osaka, injuring at least four people.

Massive Solar Flare Raises Risk of Satellite and GPS Disruptions

Japan's National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) has reported the occurrence of a major solar flare on October 3rd.

Red Gate Remains Shut for Tokyo University Students

Tokyo University's iconic Red Gate, which has long been a symbol for prospective students to pass through, has remained closed for the past three years, leaving many students unable to experience walking through it.

Ishiba Frames Three Pillars

Prime Minister Ishiba has instructed relevant ministers to draft economic measures focused on addressing rising prices, strengthening growth, and ensuring safety and security.

Man Evades Arrest After Series of Violent Robberies

A man who was placed on the public wanted list Thursday is suspected of playing a key role in a series of robberies in Tokyo and Saitama.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Business NEWS

Japanese Rice Snack Makers Struggle as Costs Soar

Rice snack manufacturers are facing a tough business environment as the price of rice soars.

Controversial 'Proxy Shopping' Surges on Flea Market Sites

Disney's exclusive merchandise releases in Japan have sparked a new controversy, not just over traditional resale but also a trend known as 'proxy shopping.'

Japan's Used Smartphone Market Booms

The used smartphone market in Japan is booming, particularly following the release of Apple's latest iPhone model. Despite the new iPhone 16 hitting the market last month, more consumers are opting for pre-owned devices due to their significantly lower prices.

Can Minimum Wage Be Raised to 1,500 Yen Under 'Ishibanomics'?

Under Prime Minister Ishiba’s new economic policy, termed "Ishibanomics," what will happen to prices, wages, and ultimately, our daily lives? Ishiba's unusual remarks on interest rates have caused stock market volatility, leaving many to question the future direction of the government's economic policies.