Can US Seize China’s Mineral Throne With Deep-Sea Mining? Here’s What Experts Say

Deep-sea mining could be a $20 trillion industry, but the cost to get there is immense. One analyst said it’s really a power play to be the next ‘Moonshot.’

Clouds coming in from the Pacific Ocean during a rain storm in Bolsa Chica, near Huntington Beach, Calif., on Feb. 1, 2024. David Swanson/AFP

America is taking on China in the race to the bottom of the sea, hoping that new mining techniques will help break Beijing’s grip on global minerals.

Supporters say the deep-sea mining industry offers a “$20 trillion opportunity,” or say security gains outweigh the financial costs.