Japanese deep sea expedition returns home with rare earth samples

A Japanese research vessel has successfully retrieved sediment rich in rare earth minerals from depths of 6,000 metres (20,000ft). The Chikyu and its crew collected the samples on a test mission off the remote Pacific island of Minamitorishima. China has banned exports of rare earths with military potential to Japan amid tensions over comments made by a Japanese leader about Taiwan. Resulting supply disruptions have accelerated Japan’s efforts to reduce its reliance on Chinese imports.