Japan will expand the scope of its rare metal reserves to include such substances as platinum, indium and rare earth metals as increased demand from China has triggered concern about global supply shortages, according to government sources.
The Natural Resources and Energy Agency under the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry will review its policy on metals for the first time in about 20 years to ensure a stable supply of rare metals that are used in manufacturing items with cutting-edge technology, the sources said earlier this week.
Platinum is used in the production of fuel cells and emission purifiers in vehicles, while indium and rare earth metals are indispensable in making liquid-crystal displays and hybrid cars.