Japan and US Partner on Deep-Sea Mining to Counter China’s Rare Earth Monopoly

Japan and the United States have announced a strategic collaboration to develop deep-sea mining operations near Japan’s Minamitorishima Island, aiming to secure rare earth resources vital for advanced technologies and defence. The move is part of a broader effort to counter China’s near-total dominance over the global rare earth supply chain.

Strategic Collaboration for Mineral Security

The agreement follows a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi last month. Both leaders pledged to strengthen cooperation across the mining, smelting, and processing chain for rare earth elements essential to manufacturing electric vehicles, clean energy systems, and military equipment. Prime Minister Takaichi stated that both nations “must secure diverse procurement methods” and are evaluating joint projects to ensure resource independence.

Exploration Near Minamitorishima Island

The focus area lies near Minamitorishima, a small Japanese island in the Pacific Ocean that anchors a vast exclusive economic zone (EEZ) spanning nearly 429,000 square kilometres. Geological surveys have revealed mud layers at depths of 5,000 to 6,000 metres rich in rare earth elements. Japan plans to begin pilot extraction in January 2026 to test the feasibility of raising mineral-rich mud from the seabed. Despite the technical challenges, the reserves could significantly reduce global reliance on Chinese sources for critical minerals.

China’s Tightening Control Over Rare Earth Exports

China currently produces more than 90 per cent of the world’s refined rare earths and magnets, making it indispensable to high-tech industries. In recent months, Beijing has added several refining technologies to its export control list and imposed new restrictions on 12 rare earth elements, including holmium, erbium, thulium, europium, and ytterbium. These minerals are crucial in applications such as semiconductors, radar systems, and electric motors, raising concerns about potential supply disruptions.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Japan and the US are collaborating on deep-sea mining near Minamitorishima Island.
• The project targets rare earth mud deposits located 5,000–6,000 metres underwater.
• China produces over 90% of the world’s processed rare earths and magnets.
• Japan’s EEZ around Minamitorishima covers nearly 429,000 sq km of seabed resources.

Global Implications of the Partnership

The Japan-US initiative is viewed as a significant step toward diversifying global rare earth supply chains. Analysts believe that successful deep-sea extraction could transform the strategic balance of resource control, reducing vulnerability to Chinese export policies. Both nations are also exploring environmentally responsible mining methods to mitigate ecological impact, underscoring their shared goal of sustainable resource development for global technological resilience.