Japan and US have announced a strategic partnership to explore and develop deep-sea mining operations near Minamitorishima Island in Japan. This project aims to secure rare earth elements essential for high-tech industries, electric vehicles, clean energy, and defence equipment. The collaboration is a direct response to China’s overwhelming control of the global rare earth supply chain.
Japan and US Partner on Deep-Sea Mining Near Minamitorishima to Secure Rare Earth Resources
Strategic Partnership for Mineral Security
The agreement was finalised after a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Both leaders agreed to strengthen cooperation in mining, refining, and processing rare earth elements to reduce dependency on a single source.
Prime Minister Takaichi emphasized that both countries “must secure diverse procurement methods” and are planning joint projects to achieve resource independence and ensure economic resilience.
Exploration Around Minamitorishima Island
The exploration site is located near Minamitorishima Island, a remote Japanese island in the Pacific Ocean. The region’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) covers nearly 429,000 square kilometres of seabed rich in rare earth minerals.
Geological studies found mineral-rich mud deposits at depths between 5,000 and 6,000 metres, making it one of the world’s most promising deep-sea reserves. Japan aims to start pilot extraction in January 2026 to test the feasibility of bringing these resources to the surface.
If successful, the project could significantly reduce global reliance on China for critical minerals.
China’s Control Over Rare Earths
Currently, China produces more than 90% of the world’s refined rare earths and magnets used in technologies such as semiconductors, radar systems, and electric motors.
Recently, China has tightened its control by restricting exports of 12 rare earth elements, including holmium, erbium, thulium, europium, and ytterbium.
This has raised concerns among major economies about supply security and the need for alternative sources of critical minerals.
Global Importance of the Japan-US Partnership
The Japan-US initiative is expected to reshape global supply chains for rare earth materials. Experts believe that successful deep-sea extraction will help both nations reduce dependency on China and stabilise the global market.
Additionally, both countries are committed to environmentally responsible mining to minimise ecological risks, ensuring that technological advancement and sustainability progress together.
This cooperation reflects a shared global strategy for resource diversification, technological security, and environmental responsibility.
Exam-Oriented Notes
- Japan and the US announced a partnership for deep-sea mining near Minamitorishima Island.
- The goal is to secure rare earth resources for technology and defence.
- The pilot extraction begins in January 2026.
- China controls over 90% of the world’s processed rare earth supply.
- Japan’s EEZ near Minamitorishima covers about 429,000 sq km.
- The collaboration aims to reduce dependency on Chinese exports and promote sustainable mining.
Question & Answer
Q1. Japan and the US have partnered for deep-sea mining near which island?
(a) Okinawa Island
(b) Minamitorishima Island
(c) Kyushu Island
(d) Shikoku Island
Answer: Minamitorishima Island
Q2. The deep-sea mining collaboration between Japan and the US mainly targets which resource?
(a) Oil and Gas
(b) Rare Earth Elements
(c) Coal Reserves
(d) Lithium Deposits
Answer: Rare Earth Elements
Q3. What percentage of the world’s refined rare earths is currently produced by China?
(a) 60%
(b) 70%
(c) 80%
(d) Over 90%
Answer: Over 90%
Q4. When is Japan planning to begin pilot extraction near Minamitorishima Island?
(a) January 2025
(b) January 2026
(c) December 2025
(d) March 2027
Answer: January 2026
Q5. The Japan-US rare earth collaboration aims to reduce dependency on which country?
(a) Russia
(b) India
(c) China
(d) South Korea
Answer: China
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