Japan will extract deep-sea minerals in world-first trial

Japan will begin a "world first" deep-sea extraction of rare earth minerals in January, aiming to secure resources vital for technology. This initiative is driven by concerns over China's dominance in the supply of these critical materials. The test will involve the Chikyu drilling vessel retrieving sediment from 5,500 meters deep near Minami Torishima. The mission, lasting about three weeks, seeks to test equipment, with an estimated 35 tonnes of mud extracted, potentially containing rare earth minerals. This move follows Japan's pledge to collaborate with the US, India, and Australia on mineral supply. Deep-sea mining faces environmental concerns and geopolitical tensions, especially with China's export controls on rare earths.