Critical Materials Study Series (CMSS) ー Vol. 2: Rare Earth Elements
Commencing the 2nd Critical Material Study Series (CMSS) hosted by IR Universe that will be held on 26th June, 2026.
The theme is on Rare Earth Elements.
Sign-up form:https://go.iru-miru.com/l/986721/2026-05-26/qc4x9n
◾️Seminar Highlight
Theme: Industry legends discuss the past, present, and future of the rare earth and rare metal industry.
This seminar will feature industry legends who have led Japan's rare earth and rare metal industry, specifically:
- Untold history of the Rare Earth Industry
- The Rise of China and Changes in Supply Structure
- The Competitiveness of Japanese Companies and Supply Chains
- Relationship with Magnets, EVs, and Economic Security
- Next-Generation Technologies and Future Market Outlook
The seminar discusses this from the perspective of the time axis of "past, present, and future."
In recent years, rare earth elements have once again attracted global attention as strategic materials supporting EVs, motors, defense, semiconductors, robotics, and more. However, the industry is also facing increasingly complex challenges, including dependence on China, supply risks, price fluctuations, and resource nationalism.
This seminar will not simply provide a market overview, but will delve deeply into the following questions from the perspectives of frontline experts, engineers, and practitioners:
"Why did the market structure become what it is today?"
"What will be the next supply crisis?"
"Do Japanese companies have a chance of success?"
Date and Time: Friday, June 26, 2026, 14:00-19:00 (including business networking session)
Registration starts at 13:30
会場:新橋ビジネスフォーラ/Shimbashi Business Forum
Venue: Shinbashi Business Forum
8F, 1-18-21 Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo 105-0004, Japan

◾️Speakers
- Mr. Isao Konishi, Former San-toku Corporation
"The Dawn of Japan’s Rare Earth Industry: Untold History and Eye-Opening Stories" - Mr. Shigeo Nakamura, Chairman and Representative Director, UMC (Urban Mines Co., Ltd.)
" (TENTATIVE Title): Rare Earths and Rare Metals: Rise of China - Resource Control"

◾️Event Schedule (Tentative)
| Time | Speakers (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| 14:00–14:10 | Greetings & What is IRunvierse? |
| 14:10–15:40 (90 mins) | Lecture: Mr. Isao Konishi |
| 15:40–16:00 | Break |
| 16:00–17:00 (60 mins) | Lecture: Mr. Shigeo Nakamura |
| 17:00–17:40 (40 mins) | Speaker (currently being contacted) |
| 17:40–18:00 | Government Official (currently being contacted) |
| 18:00–19:00 | Social Gathering |
◾️Participation Fee
MIRU Members:10,000 yen(tax included)
General Fee:15,000円(tax included)
Students:5,000円(tax included)
*The participation fee includes the social gathering, but you are free to join or leave at any time.
*MIRU member pricing is only available to those with a MIRU annual contract.
*Seats are limited, so please apply early.
◾️Who Should Attend
- For those who want to systematically understand the history and prospects of the rare earth and rare metal market.
- Those interested in the latest trends in resource security, such as dependence on China, supply risks, and price increases.
- Those involved in magnets, motors, EVs, batteries, non-ferrous metals, and recycling-related businesses.
- Those who want to learn about rare earth procurement, pricing, and market trends from a practical, on-the-ground perspective.
- Those from trading companies, manufacturers, investment firms, market research firms, consulting firms, government agencies, and academia.
- Those who want to learn directly from industry leaders and legends and expand their network.
- Those interested in global resource strategies, including Japan, China, Europe, the United States, and India.
- Those seeking opportunities for cross-industry information exchange and business collaboration.
◾️Sponsors
〜Recruiting〜
◾️Participating Companies
Released periodically
◾️Sign Up Form:
https://go.iru-miru.com/l/986721/2026-05-26/qc4x9n
Sponsors wanted! Panel, brochure, and logo placement available.
Contact:
日本担当|Japan Contact
大城 七香nanakao★iruniverse.co.jp
Overseas Contact
Risa Sugihara risas★iruniverse.co.jp
(★ Please convert this to "@")
IRuniverse Co., Ltd.
105-0004
2-16-1 Shinbashi, Minato-ku, Tokyo, New Shinbashi Building 1114
TEL:03-5847-6015
FAX:03-5847-6016
(IRuniverse)