Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Japan Launches Deep-Sea Mining Test Amid Rare Earth Rush

12/24/2025

50 8 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Japan will begin a January 2026 deep-sea mining test off Minamitorishima at 6,000 meters to assess the viability of extracting heavy rare earths such as dysprosium and terbium.
Environmental impacts will be monitored.
No production target is set.
The effort supports Japan's aim to reduce reliance on Chinese rare earth supplies.
Global interest is rising as other nations, including China and Canada, explore seabed mining.

1 of 1

Story summary

Japan will begin a January 2026 deep-sea mining test off Minamitorishima at 6,000 meters to assess the viability of extracting heavy rare earths such as dysprosium and terbium.
Environmental impacts will be monitored.
No production target is set.
The effort supports Japan's aim to reduce reliance on Chinese rare earth supplies.
Global interest is rising as other nations, including China and Canada, explore seabed mining.