Japan launches deep sea rare earth test near Minamitori
Japan's drillship Chikyu began a month-long test to recover rare earth mud near Minamitori Island amid rising China supply risk.
Cook Islands Extends Seabed Exploration to 2032
The Cook Islands extended its seabed minerals exploration programme, pushing any commercial nodule mining decision to at least 2032.
China’s Deep-Sea Research Mission in the Cook Islands Raises Regional Alarm
China's research vessel Da Yang Hao began a seabed survey off the Cook Islands, prompting New Zealand to cut nearly $16 million in aid.
Japan and U.S. Advance Joint Study on Deep-Sea Rare Earth Mining Near Minamitori Island
Japan and the U.S. launched a joint study of deep-sea rare earth mud near Minamitori Island, targeting 350 tonnes a day by 2027.