Japan makes a groundbreaking discovery in the realm of electric vehicles as massive mineral deposits have been found near an isolated island in the country’s exclusive economic zone. The mineral resources found near Minami-Torishima are a game-changer for the nation, as they have the potential to meet Japan’s cobalt consumption needs for 75 years and provide over a decade’s supply of nickel.
With approximately 230 million tonnes of manganese deposits in the form of fist-sized nodules containing essential elements like cobalt and nickel, Japan’s EV industry is set to receive a significant boost. Manganese, cobalt, and nickel are crucial components of lithium-ion batteries, making these mineral deposits invaluable for advancing EV production.
A detailed survey conducted starting in April last year unveiled the promising mineral deposits, indicating around 610,000 tonnes of cobalt and 740,000 tons of nickel within an area of approximately 10,000 square meters on the seabed.
This discovery will reduce Japan’s reliance on other countries for essential EV battery materials and position the nation as a strong contender in the global market, especially against competitors like China. The team of researchers plans to begin extracting the mineral resources in an experimental project by the end of March 2026, with the aim of commercializing production and establishing a domestic supply chain for manufacturing eco-friendly products and technologies.
Ultimately, this discovery is not only a significant milestone for Japan’s EV industry but also holds the key to establishing the nation as a science, technology, and ocean-oriented powerhouse in the global arena. The potential economic and industrial growth that this mineral deposit discovery brings to Japan is immense and sets a new standard for sustainable resource utilization in the electric vehicle era.
