Japan to commence rare-earth mud seabed mining trials in early 2026

Japan will begin test mining for rare-earth-rich mud from the deep seabed off Minamitori Island, some 1,900 kilometres southeast of Tokyo, in January next year, the head of the government-backed project said on Friday.

Tokyo is seeking to secure stable supplies of critical minerals amid tightening export controls by China, the dominant supplier of rare earths. Global manufacturers are concerned China’s decision to curb exports of rare-earths alloys, mixtures and magnets could slow production and disrupt supply chains.