This report examines the Deep-Sea Mining Industry, including its leading companies. The report aims to give a general picture of the current environment as well as global and regional affairs that influence the development of the various segments of the industry, using available data.
Deep-sea mining refers to extracting valuable minerals from the seabed at depths greater than 500 meters. Although it was first considered in the 1960s as an alternative to land mining, technological limitations and new land-based mineral discoveries delayed its commercial development.
While shallow-water mining has been practiced for years within countries' territorial seas and exclusive economic zones (EEZs), deep-sea mining has largely remained in the experimental stage. The last non-commercial deep-sea mining occurred in 1978.
In recent years, interest has grown due to advances in technology, the depletion and declining quality of land-based minerals, and concerns over supply security.
Deep-sea mining remains financially uncertain, with the commercial viability of extracting seabed minerals still unproven.
- 1. Executive Summary
- 2. Industry Overview
- 3. Introduction
- 3.1 National Government Interest
- 3.2 Exploration Contracts with the International Seabed Authority
- 3.3 Exploration Activity within National Maritime Boundaries
- 3.4 National and Regional (Framework) Legislation
- 3.5 The International Seabed Authority’s Mining Code
- 3.6 Remaining Challenges
- 4. Categories of Deep-Sea Mineral Deposits
- 4.1 Polymetallic Nodules
- 4.2 Polymetallic Sulphides
- 4.3 Cobalt-rich Crusts
- 5. Market Drivers
- 5.1 Demand for Metals on the Rise
- 5.2 The Need to Secure Metal Supply
- 5.3 The High Costs of Terrestrial Mines
- 5.4 Dispersal of Terrestrial Resources
- 5.5 Technological Advances
- 6. Market Barriers
- 7. Key References
Research Assistance
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.
Download eBook