#Japan #Tokyo #Rare Earth #SSK Seminar #Yoshiyuki Otsuki

Upcoming Seminar on Rare Earth Development in Japan

A seminar titled "Rare Earth Development Projects in Japan's EEZ" will be held on February 3, 2026, led by Yoshiyuki Otsuki, a special counsel at Anderson, Mori & Tokyu Law Offices. This event promises to shed light on the regulatory and legal considerations surrounding the development of rare earth resources within Japan's territory and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Seminar Details

• - Date & Time: February 3, 2026 (Tuesday), from 4 PM to 6 PM JST
• - Location: SSK Seminar Room, 4th Floor, Zaimax Nishi-Shinbashi Building, 2-6-2 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo
• - Online Participation: Available via Zoom webinar with accessible archived content for two weeks.

Why Rare Earth Matters

Rare earth elements are crucial for the production of modern technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) and smartphones. However, the majority of these resources are currently sourced from China. With escalating U.S.-China tensions and other geopolitical factors affecting supply chains, there is a rising concern regarding the security of rare earth materials. Consequently, Japan's efforts to develop these resources in its territorial waters or EEZ have gained prominence.

Key Topics to be Discussed

The seminar will concentrate on the legal framework introduced by the amendments to the Mining Act in 2022 and how they pertain to rare earth development in Japan:

1. Introduction: International Context of Rare Earth Elements
- An overview of the global situation surrounding rare earth elements and their importance in today's economy.

2. Application of the Mining Act in Japan's Territorial Waters
- 2022 Revisions to the Mining Act: Examination of the background and implications of the recent changes.
- Positioning of Rare Earths under the Revised Act: How rare earths are classified and regulated.
- Legal Applications Concerning Exploration: Addressing the regulatory requirements for exploration activities prior to obtaining mining rights.
- Process of Granting Mining Rights for Specific Minerals: Discussion on criteria and processes, including considerations set forth by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry.
- Current Positioning of Rare Earth Projects in Japan: Clarifying the current state of rare earth development projects within Japan's jurisdiction.

3. Future Prospects and Considerations
- Analysis of how Japan’s mining laws may evolve, as well as the anticipated future trajectory of rare earth development projects.

4. Q&A Session and Networking
- An opportunity for attendees to ask questions and network for potential collaborations.

Note: The program may be adjusted in response to the latest trends and developments in the sector.

Contact Information

For inquiries, please reach out to the New Social Systems Research Institute (SSK):

• - Address: 4th Floor, Zaimax Nishi-Shinbashi Building, 2-6-2 Nishi-Shinbashi, Minato City, Tokyo
• - Email: [email protected]
• - Phone: +81-3-5532-8850
• - Fax: +81-3-5532-8851
• - Website: SSK Official Site

About New Social Systems Research Institute (SSK)

Established on December 6, 1996, SSK has been a leader in organizing approximately 500 business seminars annually for over 28 years. Our focus is on providing high-level strategic information aimed at fostering business growth and innovation. We aim to support various facets of business through market research, seminar planning, and consultation services. At SSK, we are committed to delivering cutting-edge insights, positioning ourselves as a vital strategic partner for our clients.