Japan's Sojitz expands rare earths sourcing to Southeast Asia, reflecting global supply chain diversification
Original framing: “Japan’s Sojitz eyes Southeast Asia for new rare earths supply” — The Japan Times
The current push for rare earth diversification echoes colonial-era resource extraction patterns, where powerful nations exploited the natural wealth of weaker states. Historical precedents, such as the British exploitation of Indian minerals during the 19th century, show how economic interests can override local sovereignty and environmental concerns.
The expansion of Sojitz into Southeast Asia reflects systemic pressures in global supply chains driven by geopolitical competition and the demand for green technologies.
However, this narrative obscures the environmental and social costs borne by local communities and fails to consider alternative models of resource governance. By integrating Indigenous knowledge, strengthening local governance, and promoting circular economy practices, it is possible to develop a more sustainable and equitable approach to rare earth sourcing. Historical parallels to colonial extraction and the insights of cross-cultural perspectives highlight the need for a more holistic and inclusive approach to resource management. The trickster’s lens reveals the contradictions in framing extraction as 'secure' while perpetuating patterns of exploitation.