Japan Rare Earth and Tungsten Imports Decrease in February

Japanese rare earth import decreased by 12% to 313 tonnes in February from a year earlier, according to Ministry of Finance. Tungsten import decreased by 77% to 23 tonnes. Rare earth is used for permanent magnets of motors while tungsten is mainly consumed for cemented carbide tools. The world largest rare earth producer, China has strengthened volume regulation on its rare earth export in recent years. Rare earth procurement from China has become more difficult for Japanese consumers.

On the other hand, indium import increased by 54% to 43 tonnes in February from a year earlier, which is used mainly for transparent electrode of liquid crystal panels. Inventory adjustment completed in liquid crystal panel market and Japanese sputtering target material makers seemed to increase indium procurement. However, the import may decrease in and after March due to occurrence of Japan Earthquake.