Japan, Australia affirm closer cooperation in securing minerals, energy amid supply challenges

Canberra: Japan and Australia affirmed commitment on Monday, May 4, 2026, to step up their collaboration to ensure stable supplies of critical minerals, energy and other essentials amid China's rare earth dominance and the conflict in the Middle East.

This came during a meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and her Australian counterpart Anthony Albanese in the Australian capital, Canberra, emphasizing the importance of focusing on building resilient supply chains for rare earths, energy resources and food products, among other items.

The two sides issued five outcome documents, including a joint declaration on economic security cooperation focused on building resilient supply chains for essential resources used in advanced industries, such as electric vehicles and semiconductors.