Nordic Battery Forum - Japan

Japan's battery industry holds a significant position globally, characterized by several key aspects:

1. Quality and Reliability: Japanese batteries are known for their high quality and reliability. This reputation is built on stringent manufacturing standards and rigorous quality control processes, making Japanese batteries highly sought after worldwide.

2. Technological Leadership: Japan is a pioneer in battery technology, particularly in lithium-ion batteries. Companies like Panasonic, Sony, and Toshiba are renowned for their innovations and high-quality products. Japan's focus on advanced technologies, such as solid-state batteries, positions it as a leader in the global market.

3. Government Support: The Japanese government actively supports the battery industry through various initiatives and policies. This includes funding for research and development, subsidies for battery production, and regulations that promote the adoption of electric vehicles and renewable energy.

4. Market Size and Growth: The Japanese battery market is substantial and growing. This growth is driven by the increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), consumer electronics, and grid applications for renewable energy introduction.

• In August 2022, Japan launched a national battery strategy to invigorate its battery industry, aiming at establishing a domestic manufacturing base for batteries and materials totaling 150 GWh per year by 2030.

• In addition, Japan aims for 20% share of global battery market by 2030 by boosting global output capacity at Japanese companies by tenfold to 600 GWh by 2030. The government underlines the key role global alliances will play in this.

• The Japanese battery strategy focuses particularly on the development of all-solid-state batteries.

• The Japanese battery industry aims to regain global battery market share by leading the commercialization of next generation batteries and aims to enable full-scale commercialization of solid-state batteries by 2030.

• To meet the goals in the 2022 Battery Strategy, the Japanese government calls for USD 24 bn in investment from both public and private sectors.

• Measures to reach the policy goals by 2030 is to train 30.000 skilled workers for their battery and supply chains, and develop partnerships and investments abroad to secure the supply of minerals in the order of:

  • 380,000 tonnes of lithium

  • 310,000 tonnes of nickel

  • 60,000 tonnes of cobalt

  • 600,000 tonnes of graphite

  • 50,000 tonnes of manganese

• Japanese companies hold a strong position in global patent generation related to battery manufacturing, especially in the fields of active material (cathode and anode material) and solid-state batteries.

• A key enabler in this ambition is Japan’s domestic R&D capacities and research infrastructure. Private sector initiatives are matched with cutting-edge research, joint development and testing projects at universities and research institutes.

Information from: Japan

Read more about the Battery Industry Strategy published by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry: 0520_001a.pdf