Japan to test mine rare-earth mud from deep seabed, Pg15

Key Highlights:

• Japan will conduct test mining of rare-earth-rich mud from the deep seabed off Minamitori Island from January 11 to February 14.
• The operation marks the world's first attempt to continuously lift rare-earth mud from a depth of around 6,000 meters onto a vessel.
• The project aims to secure stable supplies of critical minerals amid tightening export controls by China.
• The Japanese government has invested about 40 billion yen ($280 million) in the project since 2018.
• A Chinese naval fleet entered Japan's exclusive economic zone (EEZ) around Minamitori Island during rare-earth surveys in June 2024.

Detailed Insights:

• The test will focus on connecting the deep-sea mining system and lifting 350 metric tons of rare-earth mud per day, while monitoring environmental impacts.
• If the test is successful, a full-scale mining trial will be conducted in February 2027.
• The project is part of Japan's broader efforts to strengthen maritime and economic security amid concerns over resource supply chains.
• Rare earth elements (REEs) are essential for various industries, including electronics, renewable energy, and defense, making their stable supply a strategic priority.
• China, the dominant supplier of rare earths, has been tightening export controls, prompting countries like Japan to seek alternative sources.
• The incident involving the Chinese naval fleet highlights the geopolitical tensions surrounding resource exploration in the EEZ.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Rare Earth Elements (REEs): A set of seventeen metallic elements crucial for various modern technologies.
• Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): A sea zone extending 200 nautical miles from a country's coastline, granting it special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources.
• Critical Minerals: Minerals essential to modern technologies and economies, with supply chains vulnerable to disruption.