Japan aims to deepen ties with India over critical minerals

Related Japanese ministries and the Japan External Trade Organization co-hosted the event held at the Japanese Embassy.

Amid concerns about China's dominant share in the refining and processing of critical minerals, the event brought together a total of some 70 companies from both countries, including members of the Battery Association for Supply Chain, a Japanese industry group.

It was participated by about 200 people, including government officials of the two countries.

Panel discussions took place on such topics as production and recycling of batteries used in electric vehicles and other products.

Companies also had opportunities for individual business negotiations.

Many Japanese companies that participated in the event have technological advantages, Japanese Ambassador to India Keiichi Ono said in a speech.

"Collaboration with Indian companies to scale up production will lead to building resilient supply chains," he added.

In the wake of China's tightened rare earth export controls, the Indian government has reportedly asked state-run firms to temporarily suspend exports of such critical resources to Japan in a bid to put priority on domestic supplies.