Tariff Shock for Japan’s Trade: The U.S. renewed forced-labor-linked tariffs on 60 economies, with Japan calling the move “regrettable” and saying no extra burden beyond last year’s agreed level is expected. Market Pressure from Oil and Bonds: Oil back above $100 is reviving inflation fears and hammering global bonds, with Japan’s yields near late-1990s levels—raising the stakes for the BOJ and corporate funding costs. Rare-Earth Supply Push: Japan says deep-sea mud near Minamitori Island contains medium/heavy rare earths (including yttrium), and plans a full-scale mining trial from February to cut reliance on China. UNESCO Sado Mines Update: UNESCO urged Japan to improve Sado gold-mine exhibits to reflect the “whole story,” including Korean forced labor context. Energy/Industry Deals: Sharp Energy Solutions will fully own its Vietnam solar EPC/O&M unit, while L&T Heavy Engineering landed large refinery and fertilizer orders tied to major overseas projects. AI and Materials Angle: A report highlights how Japan’s “non-chip” makers (specialty materials) are quietly benefiting from the AI boom. Consumer/Pop-Culture Regulation: Japan’s ruling LDP is examining rules for Pokémon and other trading cards amid counterfeiting, scalping, and money-laundering concerns.