U.S.–Japan deal secures rare-earths and nuclear power collaboration

The United States Department of Energy and Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry Japan signed a framework agreement focused on next-generation nuclear reactors and rare-earth supply chains — areas dominated by China. The deal aims to foster bilateral investment, stock-piling and collaborative development of diversified suppliers over the next six months. The arrangement underscores U.S. concerns about supply-chain security and Japan’s push to revive its nuclear-technology export sector, while signalling intensifying geopolitical competition around critical minerals and energy infrastructure.