Japan aims to dig rare earths

A JAPANESE research vessel yesterday began a historic voyage to attempt to dig deep-sea rare earths at a depth of 6 000m to curb dependence on China.

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Scientific drilling boat called the Chikyu left Shimizu Port in Shizuoka around 9am for the remote island of Minami Torishima in the Pacific, where surrounding waters are believed to contain a rich trove of valuable minerals.

The test cruise comes as China - by far the world's biggest supplier of rare earths - ramps up pressure on its neighbour after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested in November that Tokyo could react militarily to an attack on Taiwan.

Beijing claims self-ruled Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to seize it by force if necessary.