Iwatani Corporation: Investment with JOGMEC in Caremag SAS Rare Earth Supply Diversifications for the Japanese Market
Nishimura & Asahi advised Iwatani Corporation [TSE: 8088](“Iwatani”) on its joint investment with the Japan Organization for Metals and Energy Security of up to 110 million euros in equity and debt in Caremag SAS (“Caremag”) through their jointly established SPC, Japan France Rare Earths Co., Ltd.,. In addition to financing both parties signed a long-term offtake agreement to supply heavy rare earth oxides produced by Caremag to Japan. Through their investment in Caremag, Iwatani will strengthen the supply chain of rare earth oxides for the Japanese market.
The team was led by partners Yoshiyuki Kizu and Alexander Woody, supported by Wataru Inagaki and Aoi Kato.
People
Alexander Woody advises clients on energy and natural resources project investments, development and financing. He has over 20 years' experience in Japan, with a focus on cross-border LNG investments, tolling and purchase agreements and transportation arrangements.
Alex has worked extensively with arbitration specialists to provide strategic advice and assist clients to resolve disputes arising during the course of these long-term projects. He has also advised clients on solar, battery and wind power investments, as well as early stage hydrogen projects.
Alex is ranked by Chambers Global 2022 and Chambers Asia-Pacific 2022 as a Leading Lawyer for Projects & Energy: International - Japan. He is also ranked by the Legal 500 Asia Pacific 2022 as a Leading Individual: Gaiben for Projects and Energy: International Firms and Joint Ventures - Japan.
Yoshi’s practice covers various M&A transactions, cross border deals, and day-to-day commercial businesses, with a focus on Europe-related matters. He lived in Europe approx. 8 years including studying at the master of law at UCL in London, working approx. 3 years in leading firms in Frankfurt, Paris and Italy, a short secondment in Barcelona/Madrid and having regular business trips all across Europe including the Netherlands, Nordic countries and Eastern Europe. As a leading partner of Europe practice and cross-border team, Yoshi provides a tailored legal services in a timely and flexible manner.
*Legal advice in the UK is provided under the name of Nishimura & Asahi UK Limited, a legal entity independent from, and a subsidiary of, Nishimura & Asahi (Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo). None of Nishimura & Asahi (Gaikokuho Kyodo Jigyo), Nishimura & Asahi UK Limited or, the representative, Yoshiyuki Kizu is authorized by the Solicitors Regulation Authority for England and Wales, and none will undertake any reserved legal activity as defined in the United Kingdom Legal Services Act 2007.