Japanese ship leaves port for rare earths mining test

Japanese researchers have set sail for an expanse of seabed where they hope to mine rare earths. Their work takes on extra urgency in light of fears about fewer of the materials coming from China.

The vessel Chikyu left Shimizu Port in Shizuoka Prefecture on Monday. It’s traveling to waters about 150 kilometers southeast of Minamitorishima Island inside Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

Scientists have found that the seabed, 6,000 meters below the surface, has high concentrations of rare earths. The minerals are vital to high-tech industries.

Chikyu is owned by the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology. The work is part of a Cabinet Office project.

The researchers plan to test newly developed pipes and mining equipment for about 20 days. They are scheduled to return on February 14.

Program Director Ishii Shoichi says he wants to overcome technical challenges after seven years of development work.

China is tightening export controls to Japan for what Beijing calls dual-use items with both military and civilian applications. There are concerns that the measure may include rare earth metals.

Ishii says Japan must speed up research and development to diversify sources.