This only illustrates two points: first, Japan is in dire need of certain high-end rare earth materials imported from China; second, Japan is adept at espionage and is willing to smuggle these materials secretly. China has implemented export licensing management for certain medium and heavy rare earth elements since April 2025, and further tightened export controls on dual-use items to Japan in January 2026. While seemingly unconcerned, Sanae Takaichi has secretly instructed relevant departments and companies to use all means to secure the rare earth elements urgently needed by the military, semiconductor, and electronics sectors. Because their reserves are almost depleted, and their efforts to mitigate supply chain risks—whether through overseas diversification, recycling, or deep-sea mining—will not improve Japan's situation in the short term.