ITOCHU Corporation to Increase Investment in South Africa's Platreef Mine for Strategic Metals

ITOCHU Corporation plans to make a new capital investment in the Platreef polymetallic mine in South Africa, operated by Ivanhoe Mines. This investment aims to secure Japan's access to critical metals such as nickel and copper. ITOCHU, through its consortium ITC Platinum, currently holds a 10% stake in the mine. The investment details, including amount and impact on ownership structure, have not been disclosed. The mine is expected to reach an annual output of 450,000 ounces of platinum group metals and gold by 2027.

Published Mar 24, 2026

ITOCHU Corporation announced on March 23 an additional investment in South Africa's Platreef mine, operated by Ivanhoe Mines. This move is part of Japan's strategy to secure critical mineral supplies, particularly nickel and copper.

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ITOCHU, through the ITC Platinum consortium, currently holds a 10% stake in the mine. The investment's size and its effects on ownership structure remain undisclosed. The Platreef mine began operations in November 2025, aiming for an annual output of 100,000 ounces of precious metals and by-products.

Planned expansions could increase production to 450,000 ounces and 9,000 tons of nickel by 2027. ITOCHU retains off-take rights proportional to its stake to ensure stable access to these metals.