Story perspectives

Trump Eases Deep-Sea Mining Rules Amid China Competition

1/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Trump administration streamlines permitting for deep-sea mineral exploration in waters to counter China's lead in critical metals, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a rule consolidating licensing into a shorter review.
Canadian miner The Metals Company pursues exploration licenses targeting polymetallic nodules rich in nickel, copper, cobalt.
Environmental groups warn that deep-sea mining could cause irreversible biodiversity loss.

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Story summary

The Trump administration streamlines permitting for deep-sea mineral exploration in waters to counter China's lead in critical metals, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s executive order.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a rule consolidating licensing into a shorter review.
Canadian miner The Metals Company pursues exploration licenses targeting polymetallic nodules rich in nickel, copper, cobalt.
Environmental groups warn that deep-sea mining could cause irreversible biodiversity loss.