Japan targets Minamitori Island for deep-sea rare earth mining

Japan is accelerating deep-sea mining operations near Minamitori Island to secure critical rare earth elements and reduce its heavy reliance on China. Recent tests conducted at depths of approximately 6,000 meters successfully recovered mud containing significant amounts of heavy rare earths, including yttrium, dysprosium, and gadolinium. Estimates suggest the seabed resources could provide enough yttrium to meet global demand for roughly 780 years.

The project is a strategic move to establish an independent supply chain for high-tech industries such as semiconductors, electric vehicle motors, and defense systems. Japan plans to conduct large-scale trial mining in 2027, with a commercial feasibility assessment expected by 2028. To support these efforts, the Japanese government anticipates investing approximately $5.7 billion in public and private funds by 2040.

Japan is seeking to strengthen cooperation with the United States to bolster this initiative. While Japan possesses advanced deep-sea exploration capabilities, American companies could provide mature oil and gas drilling technologies. This partnership aims to create a closed-loop supply chain from mining to magnet manufacturing, countering Chinese influence in the region. However, the project faces challenges, including extreme water pressure, high extraction costs, and environmental concerns.