Trump and Takaichi Forge “New Golden Age” — U.S. and Japan Sign Historic Deal on Rare Earths and Critical Minerals

In a landmark moment for international trade and strategic cooperation, U.S. President Donald Trump and Japan’s first female Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi, signed a groundbreaking framework agreement on Tuesday aimed at securing global supply chains for rare earths and critical minerals. The deal, signed at the White House during Takaichi’s historic visit, establishes a joint initiative between Washington and Tokyo to develop diversified mining and processing capabilities for key materials essential to renewable energy, electronics, and defense technologies. The agreement marks a turning point in both nations’ economic and geopolitical posture, as they seek to curb global reliance on China’s near-monopoly over rare earth processing — a sector that currently dominates more than 90% of the global market.

Under the agreement, both countries will coordinate investments, streamline permitting processes, and create a joint “Rapid Response Group” to quickly address supply vulnerabilities and ensure the steady flow of materials vital for magnets, batteries, and electric vehicles. Within six months, the alliance is expected to identify and fund new mining and refining projects, with provisions for a joint stockpiling system and collaboration with like-minded partners such as Australia and the European Union. In a joint statement, the White House and Japan’s Ministry of Economy emphasized their shared goal of creating a “transparent, sustainable, and resilient” critical minerals market that resists manipulation and foreign trade distortions.

During the signing ceremony, Prime Minister Takaichi hailed the deal as the dawn of a “new golden age” in U.S.-Japan relations, pledging Japan’s commitment to strengthen not only trade ties but also cultural friendship — symbolized by Tokyo’s plan to gift 250 cherry trees to Washington next year in celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. President Trump praised the agreement as a “massive step toward securing America’s energy independence and manufacturing future,” underscoring its significance amid growing tensions with Beijing. As the U.S. races to reduce dependence on Chinese minerals, Tuesday’s pact signals a powerful alliance between two economic giants determined to reshape the future of global supply chains — with faith, friendship, and shared purpose at its core.