Japan Deep-Sea Rare Earth Mining

Japan has launched a pioneering deep-sea mining mission near Japan — Minamitorishima to extract rare earth elements from seabed mud. This initiative, led by Shoichi Ishii and involving the test vessel Chikyū, aims to secure a domestic supply of critical minerals and reduce Japan's dependence on China. The mission gains urgency as China has tightened export controls on rare earths and dual-use items to Japan, amidst a diplomatic dispute. The project, which has received 40 billion yen in government funding, is a long-term play with a full-scale mining trial planned for February 2027 if the current tests prove viable. Experts like Takahide Kiuchi of Nomura Research Institute and Kotaro Shimizu of Mitsubishi UFJ Research and Consulting highlight the strategic importance and economic potential of the project, especially if supply disruptions from China continue. China has been closely monitoring the situation, with its naval ships observed near the research site, which Japan has condemned as intimidating actions. The G7 finance ministers are also discussing rare earth supplies, underscoring the international significance of this event.