Exploration of Mineral and Energy Resources in and by Japan from 2009 to 2010

Abstract

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico from the April 20, 2010, is one of the most sensational topics in this one year. It is also one of most sensational topics that Gold prices recorded the highest of 1266 US$/oz (COMEX) on June 21, 2010. In spite of the sensational topics, Japanese mining, petroleum and trading companies, and JOGMEC (Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation) continue their activities steadily, and get many fruitful results in exploration and development of mineral and energy resources, which have been carried out in these several years and decades. For example, Toyota Tsusho Corporation signed a contract together with Orocobre Ltd to carry out jointly a feasibility study for the development of lithium resources in Salar de Olaroz in Argentina in order to supply important raw materials for lithium battery used in hybrid and electric vehicles.