Japan has recovered deep-sea mud containing significant amounts of rare-earth elements from the seabed near the remote Pacific island of Minamitorishima [1].
This discovery is a strategic move to secure domestic supplies of critical minerals. By developing its own sources, Japan aims to reduce its heavy reliance on rare-earth exports from China [1, 2].
The samples were retrieved earlier this year from a depth of six km (3.7 miles) below the sea surface [3]. Analysis conducted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry revealed that medium and heavy rare-earth elements accounted for about 54% of the rare-earth content found in the mud sample [1].
These specific types of rare earths are essential for high-tech manufacturing and green energy technologies. The government's effort to extract them from such extreme depths represents a significant technical challenge — one that Japan is now attempting to scale.
According to government plans, full-scale test mining is scheduled for February 2027 [3]. This phase will determine if the minerals can be extracted commercially and sustainably from the ocean floor [3].
The project follows a series of explorations in the Pacific to identify seabed deposits that can stabilize the national supply chain [1, 2].
“Medium and heavy rare earth elements accounted for about 54% of the rare-earth content in the mud sample”
This development signals a shift toward deep-sea mining as a viable geopolitical tool. By targeting medium and heavy rare earths — which are often harder to source than light rare earths — Japan is attempting to insulate its high-tech industry from potential trade disruptions and export quotas imposed by dominant market players.
