Japan and the U.S. attain deal on vital EV battery minerals to chop reliance on China

The deal resulting from be signed later Tuesday is anticipated to assist electrical automobiles utilizing metals processed in Japan qualify for tax incentives underneath President Joe Biden’s Inflation Discount Act.

“This announcement is proof of President Biden’s dedication to constructing resilient and safe provide chains,” U.S. Commerce Consultant Katherine Tai stated in an announcement.

The Inflation Discount Act, enacted in August, requires a portion of the vital minerals utilized in EV batteries to be mined in or processed domestically or from international locations with which the U.S. has free commerce agreements. Japan and the U.S. don’t have any such FTA, however the deal will grant Japan the identical therapy as an FTA companion relating to such minerals, Japanese officers stated.

In consequence, the 2 sides stated they agreed to not impose export duties on commerce in lithium, cobalt, manganese, nickel and graphite — all strategically essential minerals.

The U.S. and Japan have been looking for to construct up home manufacturing capability in such sources and increase provide networks.

Tai stated the U.S. “would proceed to work with our allies and companions to strengthen provide chains for vital minerals, together with by way of the Inflation Discount Act.”