Japan to Test Mine Seabed Mud for Rare Earths in 2026

Japan’s Seabed Mining Project for Rare Earths

Japan will launch a pioneering test mining project in 2026 to extract rare earth elements from deep seabed mud near Minamitori Island. The government-backed initiative uses advanced technology from JAMSTEC to collect mud at depths of 5,000 to 6,000 meters. If successful, Japan aims to process 350 tonnes daily by 2027, securing critical materials like neodymium and dysprosium for electric vehicle motors and high-tech applications.

The project builds on recent findings by the University of Tokyo and Nippon Foundation, revealing over 200 million tonnes of manganese nodules rich in battery metals in the Pacific. These include cobalt and nickel deposits sufficient to meet Japan’s demand for decades. This seabed resource development could reduce Japan’s reliance on global imports amid tightening export controls.

Environmental and Regulatory Challenges of Seabed Mining

However, deep sea mining at such extreme depths presents technical and environmental hurdles. Experts, including BMO Capital Markets analyst Colin Hamilton, urge further impact assessments before full commercial operations begin. Major banks like Credit Suisse and Lloyds currently restrict funding for seabed mining until regulations and environmental safeguards improve.

The International Seabed Authority (ISA) is set to finalize mining regulations by 2025, potentially enabling commercial extraction in international waters. The ISA’s upcoming meetings in July in Kingston, Jamaica, will be crucial for establishing a regulatory framework to balance resource extraction with ocean protection.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Japan’s test mining initiative highlights the strategic importance of securing rare earths for clean technology industries. Although the project is groundbreaking, its success hinges on overcoming technical complexities and environmental risks. The upcoming ISA regulations will shape the future of seabed mining globally. Investors and stakeholders must monitor regulatory progress and environmental studies carefully. Japan’s move signals growing competition for critical minerals, pushing innovation while raising sustainability questions.