Japan, US to form working group on deep-sea resources: Nikkei

Japan and the United States have announced plans to establish a joint working group focused on advancing research and development of deep-sea resource extraction technologies, according to a report by Nikkei. The initiative, formalized during recent bilateral trade discussions, aims to address technical challenges associated with mining rare earth elements and critical minerals from the ocean floor. These resources are vital for manufacturing advanced electronics, renewable energy infrastructure, and defense technologies.

The collaboration reflects growing global demand for materials essential to clean energy transitions and technological innovation. Japan, which lacks significant terrestrial mineral reserves, has long invested in deep-sea exploration, while the U.S. seeks to diversify supply chains for strategic commodities. The working group will prioritize environmental risk mitigation, regulatory alignment, and joint R&D efforts, with potential implications for international maritime law frameworks.

Financial markets have responded cautiously, with shares of deep-sea technology firms showing modest gains. Analysts note that while the partnership could accelerate commercialization timelines, high operational costs and ecological concerns may delay profitability. The initiative also raises questions about geopolitical competition for undersea resources, particularly in the Pacific.

For investors, the development underscores the intersection of resource scarcity, technological advancement, and regulatory dynamics. Stakeholders in mining, environmental technology, and geopolitical risk analysis may need to reassess portfolios as the working group progresses. The first joint report is expected by mid-2026, with pilot projects potentially following in subsequent years.

[引用越界:1]: Nikkei reported the announcement on March 13, 2026.