Japanese government officials have warned that national stockpiles of essential rare earths, including yttrium, are rapidly depleting due to tightening Chinese export controls. Officials stress that the crisis is a matter of months rather than years, threatening severe downstream bottlenecks for global automotive, electronics, and industrial sectors. In response, Tokyo has appealed to the United States for diplomatic assistance in persuading Beijing to ease the severe chokehold on critical mineral supplies. Analysts note that Japan’s acute vulnerability highlights the systemic risks facing international supply chains amid escalating geopolitical and trade friction between superpowers. While Japanese industries scramble to accelerate conservation efforts and secure alternative sources, experts warn that without immediate relief, global manufacturing operations face unprecedented disruption.

Full report : Tokyo urges Washington to help ease Beijing’s export curbs on critical minerals, warning of systemic risks to global manufacturing.