Japan will conduct its first continuous deep-seabed mining trial of rare-earth-rich mud off Minamitori Island, roughly 1,900 kilometres southeast of Tokyo, from January 11 to February 14, 2026. The operation aims to lift mud from depths of approximately 6,000 meters onto a vessel while monitoring environmental impacts both on the seabed and aboard the research ship.
Shoichi Ishii, program director for Japan’s Cabinet Office national platform for innovative ocean developments, said the project seeks to establish a domestic supply chain for rare earth minerals critical to industry. No production target has been set for this initial trial, with a full-scale mining operation planned for February 2027 if successful.
The government-funded initiative, which has spent around 40 billion yen ($256 million) since 2018, remains non-disclosed regarding estimated reserves. The January trial will test the system’s ability to lift 350 metric tons of mud per day.
Ishii also noted a prior incident in June 2025, when a Chinese naval fleet entered waters near Minamitori Island while Japan conducted rare-earth surveys within its exclusive economic zone (EEZ). China’s foreign ministry responded that its vessels were operating within international law and called on Japan to avoid escalating tensions.
The trial is part of Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen maritime and economic security amid tighter Chinese export controls on rare earth minerals.
