ASIA

Japan on cusp of test mining rare earth mud from deep seabed

A world-first attempt

Aerial view of Minamitori Island (Minami-Torishima), Japan. There is a runway which supported the US Coast Guard station located there prior to 1993. Minamitori Island is the easternmost island of the Japanese archipelago.

Aerial view of Minamitori Island (Minami-Torishima), Japan. There is a runway which supported the US Coast Guard station located there prior to 1993. Minamitori Island is the easternmost island of the Japanese archipelago. | Credits: Chief Master Sergeant Don Sutherland, U.S. Air Force.

Japan plans to begin pioneering test mining for rare-earth-rich mud from the deep seabed in January next year, the head of the government-backed project told Reuters on July 4.  "The goal is to secure...

Start a free trial to continue reading this article

Already have an account?

Subscribe now

Expert-led Insights reports built on robust data, rigorous analysis and expert commentary covering mining Exploration, Future Fleets, Automation and Digitalisation, and ESG.

Expert-led Insights reports built on robust data, rigorous analysis and expert commentary covering mining Exploration, Future Fleets, Automation and Digitalisation, and ESG.

editions

Automation and Digitalisation Insights 2025

Discover how mining companies and investors are adopting, deploying and evaluating new technologies.

editions

Mining IQ Exploration Insights 2025

Gain exclusive insights into the world of exploration in a comprehensive review of the top trending technologies, intercepts, discoveries and more.

editions

Future Fleets Insights 2025

Mining IQ Future Fleets Insights 2025 looks at how companies are using alternative energy sources to cut greenhouse gas emmissions

editions

Automation and Digitalisation Insights 2024

Exclusive research for Mining IQ Automation and Digitalisation Insights 2024 shows mining companies are embracing cutting-edge tech