China secures seabed exploration rights near Japan's economic zone

scmp.com

A Chinese state-owned company has gained exclusive rights to explore seabed sites near Japan's exclusive economic zone. Beijing Pioneer Hi-Tech Development Corp plans to conduct experimental mining of manganese nodules starting in August 2025, about 600 km from Minami-Torishima. The operation will cover 250,000 sq km and aims to collect up to 7,500 tonnes of nodules. The focus will be on testing equipment and assessing ecological impacts rather than large-scale mining. In June, Japanese researchers identified 230 million tonnes of valuable nodules within Japan's EEZ. These nodules contain cobalt and nickel, which are important for various industries.


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China secures seabed exploration rights near Japan's economic zone | News Minimalist