Japan and the United States aim to enhance shipbuilding capabilities and escape the situation of being dependent on rare earths.
The Asahi Shimbun reported on its front page that the Japanese and U.S. governments have begun coordinating towards a memorandum of understanding on shipbuilding cooperation, in line with President Trump's visit to Japan on the 27th. A working group will be established in both countries to enhance shipbuilding capabilities. The purpose is to improve maritime transportation capabilities critical to security and compete with China, a world-leading shipbuilding country.
Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Kako and U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass will sign it. According to the draft memorandum of understanding, a "Japan-U.S. Shipbuilding Working Group" will be established to promote cooperation in the shipbuilding industry. Japanese and U.S. companies will work together to invest in the construction and maintenance of shipyards to enhance competitiveness and efficiency.
Shipbuilding is one of the areas of cooperation for American investment of 55 billion dollars (approximately 8 trillion yen) under the Japan-U.S. tariff negotiation agreement. The draft memorandum clearly states that "a strong and innovative shipbuilding industry is crucial for the economic security, resilience, and competitiveness of the two countries."
According to the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, China's share of global shipbuilding has been expanding in recent years. The number of orders reflected in the future construction volume in 2024 will exceed 70%. Japan's order volume is on a downward trend, at only 8% in 2024. Both Japan and the United States realize that if their dependence on China increases in shipbuilding, it could disrupt maritime transport in an emergency.
To enhance the compatibility of shipbuilding between Japan and the United States, we will also consider standardizing ship designs and component specifications. In addition to promoting joint technology development, the company seems to be considering producing parts designed by Japanese companies in U.S. shipyards. We hope to be able to adapt to each other in terms of maintenance and parts supply.
We will also strengthen the acquisition and training of human resources needed for the shipbuilding industry. The draft memorandum also includes the development and introduction of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) to improve ship design and functionality.
Combined with the summit meeting between Prime Minister Kishida and Trump on the 28th, it is expected that the two countries will sign a memorandum of understanding to strengthen the ability to supply important mineral resources such as rare earths. It is expected to include investments to promote joint development and diversification of supply. It aims to establish a supply network for rare earths that does not rely on Chinese regulation of rare earth exports.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1846997383676940/
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