US Deep-Sea Mineral Stockpile Plan Criticized by China

Chinese analysts have expressed concerns regarding the United States' plan to stockpile deep-sea minerals, viewing it as a "panicked" response aimed at countering China's dominance in the supply chains of battery minerals and rare earths. The US is reportedly drafting an executive order to facilitate the stockpiling of metals found on the Pacific Ocean seabed. This move is seen as an attempt to achieve self-sufficiency in these critical minerals.

The proposed plan involves the acquisition of potato-sized nodules found on the sea floor, which contain valuable metals like nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, essential for various applications, including batteries and electrical wiring. Experts suggest that the US approach may be an attempt to control areas with potentially exploitable seabed resources. However, the current state of deep-sea mining technology is considered immature.

Analysts argue that the US strategy is likely to disrupt global supply chains and face significant economic and logistical challenges. They emphasize that global cooperation, rather than unilateral stockpiling, is the more effective approach to critical mineral development. The plan has also raised international concerns, with opponents highlighting the potential environmental damage to deep-sea ecosystems, including harm to life forms living thousands of meters below the surface.