Final Flare? High City Reports Joy: "Rare Earths Discovered in Sediments Near Minami-Tori-shima"
On the 24th, Japan's National Institute of Oceanography announced that analysis of rare earth-bearing sediments collected by the deep-sea research vessel "Chikyū" from the seabed near Minami-Tori-shima has detected multiple "middle and heavy rare earth elements"—materials vital and highly valuable for Japan’s high-tech industries. Based on these results, a full-scale mining trial will be conducted in the same area in February 2027.
The Japanese government plans to begin considering industrial-scale testing—including cost assessments—starting in March 2028.
According to agencies such as the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, most of Japan’s imported rare earths come from China.
At a meeting in June, Taro Akiyama stated: "We must rapidly advance development."
The Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) noted that middle and heavy rare earths are used in magnets for electric vehicle (EV) drive motors. The sample showed the highest concentration of yttrium, followed by gadolinium and dysprosium. The remaining approximately 46% consisted of light rare earths, such as neodymium.
Upon confirming the discovery of rare earths in the seabed sediments near Minami-Tori-shima, Akiyama quickly updated her X account, expressing particular interest in the finding of "yttrium," calling it "extremely important," and added: "I once again extend my respect to the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology (JAMSTEC) and all involved parties for their efforts."
She also emphasized: "For critical materials including rare earths, we will work across all departments to strengthen our supply chains and avoid over-reliance on any single country."
Prime Minister Akiyama’s cabinet is currently facing a difficult situation both domestically and internationally, with declining approval ratings and disapproval exceeding approval for the first time.
Could this sudden announcement of a “major breakthrough in rare earths” be an attempt to revive its fortunes?
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871578536351884/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author