Japan builds supply chain for EV battery minerals in Africa

Tokyo eyes exploration with Zambia, Congo and Namibia to counter China

20230801N copper-cobalt ore

Raw ore taken from an industrial copper-cobalt mine in the Democratic Republic of Congo. © Reuters

ANNA NISHINO, Nikkei staff writer

TOKYO -- Japan's government plans to work with three African nations to develop supply chains for cobalt and other minerals critical in making electric vehicle batteries, Nikkei has learned.

Tokyo will team with Zambia, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Namibia to expand joint exploration in each country. The projects are due to start as soon as within the year.

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