Japan to Conduct Deep-Sea Mining Test for Rare Earth Minerals

Tokyo. In a strategy to secure the supply of rare earth minerals used in high-tech applications, Japan will conduct a full-scale deep-sea mining test at a depth of approximately 6,000 meters in the Pacific Ocean in February. The government announced this plan after successfully collecting samples from the seabed recently.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi informed that yttrium was found in samples brought from a deep-sea drilling ship near Minami Torishima Island earlier this year. According to her, yttrium is a globally rare mineral.

Its use in semiconductor production equipment, the automotive industry, and pollution control technology is extensive, making its strategic importance high for Japan.

Prime Minister Takaichi stated that based on this achievement, a full-scale deep-sea mining test will be conducted in February next year. She also mentioned that the supply chain for rare minerals will be further strengthened through joint participation of the government and private sector to reduce dependence on any single country.

According to the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC), approximately 50 tons of samples collected from the seabed contained yttrium along with other rare earth elements such as gadolinium and dysprosium.

Japan, the United States, and some other countries are trying to reduce their reliance on China for rare minerals needed for high-tech products like missiles, semiconductors, electric vehicles, and wind turbines.

In March, Prime Minister Takaichi had informed that discussions were underway with the United States regarding cooperation on potential deep-sea mining development in the Minami Torishima region. Previous studies have shown that the seabed around the coral island, located about two thousand kilometers from Tokyo, contains millions of tons of rare earth minerals, which could meet the demand for some minerals for hundreds of years.

However, environmental protection advocates have warned that deep-sea mining could have serious impacts on marine ecosystems. According to the International Energy Agency, China accounts for about two-thirds of the world's rare earth mineral production and 92% of refined production.

Following Prime Minister Takaichi's remarks regarding Taiwan, Beijing imposed strict restrictions on rare mineral supplies to Japan when relations chilled.

Japanese officials have also stated plans to initiate preliminary studies on the Minami Torishima region as a potential nuclear waste management site. There is no permanent settlement on the island, and entry is prohibited for the general public and tourists.