Japan and South Africa strengthen critical minerals and investment cooperation

Japan and South Africa have agreed to strengthen cooperation on critical mineral supply chains and economic investment following talks in Pretoria between Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and South African International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola.

According to Japan’s Foreign Ministry, both sides also pledged to support corporate investment initiatives aimed at helping revive South Africa’s slowing economy. The discussions formed part of Motegi’s wider diplomatic tour across Africa, which included visits to Zambia, Angola and Kenya.

South Africa remains Japan’s largest trading partner in Africa and a major producer of platinum group metals and manganese, both considered strategically important minerals.

Key developments

  • Japan and South Africa agreed to enhance critical mineral supply chain cooperation.
  • The ministers discussed expanding Japanese corporate investment in South Africa.
  • Both sides reaffirmed support for a “free and open Indo-Pacific”.
  • Motegi also held talks with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

ℹ️ The Mainichi

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Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, left, shakes hands with his South African counterpart Ronald Lamola in Pretoria, May 5, 2026. (Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan)
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Japan and South Africa strengthen critical minerals and investment cooperation
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