Japan to Launch Rare Earth Resource Development in Namibia

The Japanese government will launch rare earth resource development in Namibia, located in southwestern Africa. A local survey conducted by the Japan Energy and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) has confirmed Namibia’s reserves of dysprosium and terbium, used in electric vehicle (EV) motors and other applications. Recruitment of companies for mining development has begun. The construction of a refining plant to remove impurities is also being considered.

Rare earths are indispensable resources for advanced technology development. Forecasts indicate that rare earth demand will more than double by 2040 compared to 2024. Japan is diversifying its procurement network from an economic security perspective.

Currently, China controls the majority of global rare earth production. Following comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding potential threats to Taiwan, China has tightened export controls on rare earths to Japan.

JOGMEC and Sojitz Corporation jointly invested in Lynas, Australia’s largest rare earth company, in 2011. Lynas has already begun supplying dysprosium and terbium to Japan. In 2025, JOGMEC, together with Iwatani Corporation, invested in a French rare earth company and signed a supply contract that included dysprosium.