The Japanese government plans to collaborate with the US on rare earth supply chains, as China has recently imposed export restrictions on these critical minerals. It is reported that the cooperation plan will cover the seven rare earth elements that China has banned from exporting, as well as the supply chain for China's cessation of importing liquefied natural gas from the US. The proposal also includes technical and process support to facilitate rare earth processing and refining. Japan is considering direct cooperation with the US, while also exploring the use of third-country expertise and lower costs to process these minerals. This initiative aims to address the situation where US President Trump views China as the "primary target" and seeks compromise between the two countries. Japan's chief negotiator is currently in Washington for the fifth round of negotiations, with discussions focusing not only on rare earths but also on broader trade and economic security issues. Meanwhile, Akazawa Ryo, Japan's Minister for Economic Revitalization, is set to head to the US to negotiate tariff issues.