Cook Islands and United States Establish Strategic Framework for Critical Minerals Research and Supply Chain Security

The Government of the Cook Islands and the Government of the United States have agreed a non-binding Framework for Engagement and Cooperation to strengthen supply chains for critical minerals and rare earths, including cooperation relating to deep-sea minerals.

Media ReleaseDede Mingi4 February 2026Cook Islands Government, Seabed Minerals Authortiy (SBMA), Critical Minerals, Rare Earth, International Cooperation, Ocean Governance, Supply Chain Security, Sovereignty, Environmental Protection, Science-Led Decision Making, Scientific Research, Geological Mapping, Knowledge Exchange, Capacity Building, United States, Pacific Region, Indo=Pacific

Feature Article | 60 Years of Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Sector: Then & Now Charting Our Journey from 1965 to 2025

For six decades, the Cook Islands has been on a remarkable journey, exploring the vast blue frontier beneath its waters. From early discoveries in the 1960s to becoming a leader in seabed minerals governance, this story is one of vision, resilience, and responsible resource management.

Advancing Innovation: SBMA Expands Global Collaboration for Marine Research

The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) is participating in the State Visit to China from 10-14 February, alongside the Cook Islands Government Delegation. This visit focused on capacity building, research, and scientific collaborations.

Media ReleaseDede Mingi13 February 2025Cook Islands, SBMA, Blue Economy, Scientific Research, Marine Conservation, Seabed Mining, Environmental Sustainability, Ocean Exploration, International Collaboration, Transparency And Accountability, Marine Science, Global Partnerships, Governance, Deep Sea Research, Public Engagement, Resource Management

Diaspora concerns addressed in NZ seabed mining talks, says PM

Cook Islands Government’s recent consultation tour in New Zealand was a significant success, effectively addressing numerous concerns held by the diaspora regarding seabed mining, says Prime Minister Mark Brown.

PM clarifies use of NGO logos in seabed mining consultation

Prime Minister Mark Brown has responded to concerns raised by two environmental groups, Te Ipukarea Society (TIS) and Korero o te Orau, regarding the government’s recent seabed mining consultation in New Zealand.

Deep ocean groundings

Journalist Rachel Reeves shares insights and revelations from this week’s Deep Sea Symposium hosted by the Cook Islands Centre For Research (Te Puna Vai Marama).

CI NEWSDede Mingi2 November 2024Deep Sea Syposium, Cook islands, Deep Sea Mining, Environmental Impact, Marine Science, Sustainable Development, Indigenous Knowledge, Polymetallic Nodules, Cultural Heritage, Climate Change, Economic Analysis, Marine Conservation, Scientific Research, Ocean Governance, Community Engagement, Sustainable Practices

PM declares seabed minerals ambition

Cook Islands wants to be the country that is at the forefront of the seabed minerals sector, declared Prime Minister Mark Brown.

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