Japan and the United States plan joint extraction of rare earth minerals near Minamitorishima to reduce both countries dependence on China.
Japan and the United States have announced a joint initiative to extract rare earth minerals from waters near the remote Pacific island of Minamitorishima, as both countries seek to reduce their reliance on China for these critical resources.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said the project will begin with a demonstration test in January 2026, targeting mud deposits located approximately 6,000 meters below the ocean surface. Surveys conducted near the island, about 1,950 kilometers southeast of central Tokyo, indicate significant concentrations of rare earth elements within the seabed sediments.
Rare earth minerals are essential for a wide range of modern technologies, including smartphones, electric vehicles, wind turbines, and military equipment. China currently dominates global production, making access to alternative sources a strategic priority for the United States, Japan, and other industrialized nations.
The joint initiative represents a significant step in Tokyo and Washington’s broader efforts to secure supply chains for critical materials, amid growing geopolitical concerns and trade vulnerabilities. By collaborating on extraction technology and operational planning, the two allies aim to establish a sustainable and economically viable source of rare earths outside of Chinese control.
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“Working together with the United States, we are taking concrete steps to secure critical resources vital for our economy and national security,” Prime Minister Takaichi said.
While deep-sea mining presents potential economic benefits, environmental experts have warned of risks to marine ecosystems. Mining operations at such depths can disrupt habitats and biodiversity, prompting calls for strict oversight and environmental safeguards. Japanese officials have emphasized that the project will proceed under careful scientific monitoring to minimize ecological impact.
The Minamitorishima initiative is part of a growing trend among countries seeking to diversify rare earth supply chains, reflecting the strategic importance of these minerals in global technology and defense sectors. Analysts say the project could serve as a model for future collaboration between nations aiming to secure critical resources while balancing environmental responsibilities.
Both Japan and the United States have indicated that successful demonstration tests could lead to expanded commercial-scale operations in the coming years, marking a new chapter in trans-Pacific cooperation on strategic materials.
