An Overview of the Current Situation of the Metals and Minerals Market

Abstract

Exploiting the chemical and physical properties of metals and minerals, it has become possible to develop new applications that improve the technical performance and to deliver greater value to businesses and consumers, and to reduce environmental burdens. In recent years the global nature of the metals and minerals market has been made very evident as many emerging economies have become significant consumers of various raw mineral products. With increasing restrictions on Chinese exports of the Rare Earths, Tungsten etc., it is very important for Japanese industries to develop secure supply options. The Japanese government has implemented to promote mineral exploration and development projects in the world, to promote technical development to reduce the recycling cost of recovering metals from used manufactured products and so on.