Earlier this week the country pledged to work with the United States, India and Australia to ensure a stable supply of critical minerals, as concern grows over China’s dominance in resources vital to new technologies.
China accounts for almost two-thirds of rare earth mining production and 92 percent of global refined output, according to the International Energy Agency.
“The test to retrieve the sediments from 5,500 metres (3.4 miles) water depth is the first in the world,“ he told AFP.
The Chikyu will drill in Japanese economic waters around the remote island of Minami Torishima in the Pacific -- the easternmost point of Japan, also used as a military base.
Each tonne is expected to contain around two kilograms (4.4 pounds) of rare earth minerals, which are often used to make magnets that are essential in modern electronics.
Beijing has since April required licences to export rare earths from China, a move seen as retaliation for US curbs on the import of Chinese goods.
The International Seabed Authority, which has jurisdiction over the ocean floor outside national waters, is meeting later this month to discuss a global code to regulate mining in the ocean depths. – AFP
Read More Details
Finally We wish PressBee provided you with enough information of ( Japan plans ‘world first’ deep-sea mineral extraction )
Also on site :