In a landmark meeting in Tokyo, US President Donald Trump and Japan&rsquo;s first female Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi signed a framework agreement on critical minerals and rare earths, aiming to secure global supply chains and reduce dependency on rival markets. The pact marks a renewed phase in US&ndash;Japan relations, blending strategic diplomacy with economic pragmatism.
The White House said both nations will work to &ldquo;address non-market policies and unfair trade practices&rdquo; while ensuring steady access to key minerals for technology and defense sectors. Within six months, Japan and the US plan to support projects producing end-products for buyers across allied nations. The framework forms part of a broader effort to counter China&rsquo;s dominance in the rare earth market.
In their first meeting since Takaichi took office, she hailed Trump as a partner in a &ldquo;new golden era&rdquo; of the Japan&ndash;US alliance. Trump praised Japan as &ldquo;a great ally,&rdquo; promising full American support: &ldquo;Any time you have any question, any doubt, anything you want, we will be there.&rdquo; Takaichi&rsquo;s poised debut on the global stage reflects both her conservative roots and her intent to cement Japan&rsquo;s standing as a regional power.
Trade remained a key focus, with Trump pressing for greater US access to Japan&rsquo;s markets in automobiles, agriculture, and technology. The two sides finalized a 15% tariff rate for most Japanese exports, a long-pending deal that relieves Japan&rsquo;s automakers from the earlier 24% duty. Japan also pledged to invest $550 billion in projects advancing shared economic and security interests.
Takaichi&rsquo;s decision to host Trump just days after taking office underscored her diplomatic boldness. Reports suggest she may even recommend Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, joining other nations that have done so. As the two leaders clasped hands, it was clear, the world&rsquo;s oldest democracy and Asia&rsquo;s rising female leader were setting the tone for a new trans-Pacific era built on trade, trust, and technological power.

Trump, Takaichi Seal Rare Earths Pact in Tokyo

US and Japan strengthen trade, tech, and rare earth supply chains in new strategic deal

Trump, Takaichi Seal Rare Earths Pact in Tokyo

US and Japan strengthen trade, tech, and rare earth supply chains in new strategic deal

October 28, 2025 | 14:05 IST