Japan’s push to reduce reliance on China by deepening ties with Vietnam raises questions: Does it really view global supply chains as easily reconfigurable building blocks, like LEGO?

Japan Expands Rare Earth Supply Channels, Vietnam Emerges as Key Partner

A report by the South China Morning Post on November 11 noted that Japan and Vietnam plan to strengthen cooperation in critical minerals to leverage Vietnam’s abundant mineral resources, diversify Japan’s rare earth supply chains, and reduce reliance on Chinese sources.

During Vietnamese President To Lam’s visit to Tokyo this week, both countries issued a joint vision statement agreeing to study and implement collaborative projects in critical minerals.

Analysts observe that Vietnam is becoming an increasingly important partner for Japan in advancing economic security through diversified supply chain initiatives. However, China remains the world’s largest supplier of rare earth elements, and Vietnam’s resource development and supply chain infrastructure will require time to mature. Fully replacing China’s role in the global market is not currently feasible.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1881558020240384/

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