Overview
- The research vessel Chikyu left Shimizu for waters near Minamitorishima to attempt the first continuous lifting of rare-earth-rich mud from roughly 6,000 metres.
- The test campaign is scheduled through February 14, with initial samples expected later in January before evaluations of technical and economic feasibility.
- Officials say a successful trial could pave the way for full-scale mining experiments targeted for February 2027, subject to results.
- China has announced controls on exports of dual-use items to certain Japanese military end users, while state-owned firms have reportedly refused new rare-earth contracts for some Japanese buyers and may cancel existing deals.
- Japan has raised rare-earth security with G7 finance ministers meeting in Washington as companies build stockpiles and reliance on Chinese supply, reduced to about 60%, remains acute for some heavy elements.