The Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources convened an oversight hearing to discuss the potential and challenges of deep-sea mining. The session focused on how regulatory and statutory barriers affect the development of this sector.
Subcommittee Chairman Pete Stauber (R-Minn.) commented on the issue, stating, “As China seeks to corner the global market for critical minerals, we must have an all-the-above mining strategy that includes support for both domestic mining and the growing deep-sea mining sector. We must cut regulatory red tape, unleash innovation, and lead the world in responsibly harvesting these resources to build resilient supply chains, protecting our economic and national security.”
Minerals are considered essential for U.S. national security, economic competitiveness, and energy infrastructure. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, there are 60 mineral commodities that are critical to the country’s economy and defense which face increasing risks due to potential disruptions in supply chains. These minerals play a key role in batteries, electronics, advanced manufacturing, and defense technologies.
Significant deposits of critical minerals exist on the ocean floor. Accessing these resources could help strengthen domestic mineral supply chains, decrease reliance on foreign sources, and encourage technological innovation in resource development.
However, current regulations create uncertainty and delays in permitting processes for seabed mineral exploration and development. At the same time, China is expanding its presence in deep-sea mining and global mineral supply chains. This situation has raised concerns about U.S. competitiveness and security.
The hearing highlighted the need to review existing legal frameworks so that the United States can develop seabed mineral resources responsibly while supporting innovation and securing reliable supply chains important for national interests.
