Taiwanese media Commercial Times reported on the 15th that Japan, aiming to break away from its dependence on China for rare earths, is now setting its sights on Greenland.

The article reported that the Japanese government, which is seeking to break away from its dependence on rare earths from China, plans to dispatch a delegation composed of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, trading companies, and the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security (JOGMEC) to Greenland as early as this summer. It added that the delegation plans to assess the potential for rare earth resource development on site and hold discussions with the Greenland Self-Government regarding cooperation.

It further explained, "Japan relies on imports for many of its resources. In the past, China implemented export restrictions on rare earths, which severely impacted domestic manufacturing." It stated, "Since rare earths are used in a wide range of technological fields such as electric vehicles (EVs), wind turbines, electronic devices, and defense equipment, Japan is actively promoting the diversification of its supply chains."

It then noted, "In recent months, Japan has been undertaking various initiatives to secure a stable supply of rare earths." It highlighted the successful test mining of rare earths in the deep sea off Minamitori Island for the first time in February, and the promotion of cooperation frameworks concerning rare earths and critical minerals in collaboration with the United States and various European countries in March and April.

Furthermore, as the "biggest reason" for focusing on Greenland this time, it explained, "Greenland's potential rare earth reserves could reach 400 million tons, and they are said to include elements such as dysprosium and neodymium, which are essential for high-performance magnets used in EV motors and military equipment. It also possesses significant potential in energy development, with reserves of resources like crude oil and natural gas."

The article also mentioned, "Greenland is strategically important and serves as a vital point for the Arctic Sea Route, thus attracting attention from the international community in recent years." It also touched upon the controversy in January this year when then-U.S. President Donald Trump proposed an acquisition and showed a stance not to rule out the possibility of military action, which drew strong backlash from European countries.

It concluded, "As global demand for rare earths continues to expand with the development of EVs, semiconductors, and the defense industry, Greenland is regarded as one of the most important rare earth suppliers outside of China. As Japan strengthens its efforts to secure mineral resources overseas, it is a natural progression for its attention to turn to Greenland." (Translated and Edited by Kitada)