The Japanese government has announced its intention to enhance its partnership with Zambia in the search for crucial minerals necessary for electric vehicles and other products.
Economy, Trade, and Industry Minister Yasutoshi Nishimura, along with Zambia’s Mines and Mineral Development Minister Paul Kabuswe, signed a collaborative agreement in Lusaka on Friday to bolster their cooperation in the mining industry.
The Japanese government plans to strengthen the supply chain for key minerals by supporting the development of mines, an often burdensome undertaking, through government-led initiatives to encourage Japanese companies to expand into Africa.
The exploration project will focus on copper produced in the south-central African country, as well as other key minerals such as cobalt and nickel, which are used as raw materials for EV batteries.
The two countries agreed to conduct exploration across Zambia using high-performance sensors mounted on Japanese satellites.
During Nishimura’s visit to Africa, both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Namibia agreed to cooperate with Japan in the exploration of key minerals and the establishment of supply networks.
With China expanding its investments in Africa to acquire raw materials, Japan also intends to promote Japanese investment in Zambia from the perspective of economic security.
In Zambia, a public-private mining investment conference saw the participation of 11 firms, including Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Nissan Motor Co., and Toyota Tsusho Corp.
Nishimura highlighted, “Resource-rich nations are increasingly aiming for economic diversification and reduced reliance on single partners.” He emphasized the importance of fostering mutually beneficial ties through assistance such as workforce development and ensuring the availability of vital minerals.
