Japan and US to Jointly Explore Rare Earth Mining Near Minamitori Island

TOKYO, Japan — Japan and the United States will jointly study the development of rare earth mining in the waters around Minamitori Island, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi announced on Thursday. This co-development was a key discussion point during Takaichi’s meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump last week.

The two countries signed a framework agreement aimed at securing rare earth supplies, which are crucial for various industries, including automotive and defense. Takaichi highlighted that significant deposits of mud containing rare earth elements have been identified around Minamitori Island, located approximately 1,900 kilometers (1,180 miles) southeast of Tokyo.

In January, Japan plans to commence test mining from a depth of 6,000 meters in order to assess the viability of extracting the rare earth-rich mud. “We will consider specific ways to promote cooperation between Japan and the United States on rare earth development… around Minamitori Island,” Takaichi stated during a parliamentary session.

The Japanese government is advancing a national initiative to enhance domestic production of rare earth materials as part of broader efforts to strengthen maritime and economic security amidst growing concerns about China’s dominance in the global rare earth market.

Surveys have indicated the presence of rich rare earth deposits at depths between 5,000 and 6,000 meters within Japan’s exclusive economic zone near Minamitori Island, according to officials from the government-backed project. If tests are successful, the initiative aims to launch trial operations capable of recovering 350 metric tons of mud daily starting in January 2027.

China currently leads the global extraction of rare earth materials, while the United States and Myanmar control approximately 12% and 8% of global production, respectively, according to reports from the Eurasia Group.