Japan retrieves rare earths from seabed in deep-sea drilling test

The successful test is a significant step toward industrializing domestic rare earth production in Japan and reducing its reliance on China, which currently dominates the global supply chain for these critical minerals. Rare earths are essential components for semiconductors, electric vehicles, and defense applications.

Japanese researchers first discovered deposits rich in critical minerals, including rare earths, around Minamitori-shima in the 2010s. The country has been working on research and development in this area under its Strategic Innovation Promotion Program.

The move comes amid growing geopolitical tensions, particularly concerning China's control over rare earth production and recent suspensions of dual-use goods exports to Japan. This initiative aims to establish resilient supply chains for critical minerals, avoiding overdependence on any single nation.