Japan’s trading house Marubeni Corp has announced an investment in RZ Resources’ mineral sands project in New South Wales, Australia, signalling a step-up in securing critical minerals outside Chinese supply chains. The deal sees Marubeni contributing A$15 million (~US$9.75 million) for options and rights to participate in heavy mineral sands production including rutile, ilmenite, zircon and monazite.

Source: Reuters

In a broader context, the investment comes amid mounting global competition for critical minerals—essential for clean energy, defence and tech industries. With China tightening export controls, Japan and its allies are turning to Australia as a strategic alternative. The RZ project is the latest example of this shift.

Key Findings:
– Marubeni's A$15 million stake provides access to Australia’s mineral sands rich in heavy minerals.
– Mineral sands such as rutile and ilmenite are crucial for aerospace, defence and high-tech manufacturing.
– The deal aligns with global efforts to diversify supply chains away from China’s dominant position.
– Investments like these highlight the mining sector’s increasing role in geopolitics and national security.

Expert Insight:
“Securing raw materials has become as strategic as securing oil and gas reserves in previous decades.”

EVSUD Mining Perspective:
At EVSUD Mining, we recognise the growing strategic importance of critical mineral supply chains. Our project planning emphasises partnerships, regional diversification, and resilience to ensure our operations remain aligned with the needs of global end-markets, not just commodity cycles.