Japan extracts deep-sea mud rich in rare earths near Minamitorishima island

Japan successfully recovered rare earth-rich mud from the deep Pacific Ocean, potentially challenging China's rare earth dominance. The discovery, made near Minamitorishima island, contains elements crucial for electric vehicles and advanced electronics, as China tightens its own export controls. This deep-sea mining breakthrough could bolster Japan's supply chain security amid rising geopolitical tensions and regional competition for resources.