Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority
Runanga Takere Moana

Regulatory Updates

Regulatory Updates

The Seabed Minerals Authority is committed to transparent, consistent and accountable regulation of seabed mineral activities in accordance with the Seabed Minerals Act 2019.

Section 12(d) of the Act requires the Authority to share information and consult with relevant stakeholders and the community, as appropriate in the circumstances, including through publication of up-to-date information on the Authority’s website. The Authority may also publish information relating to applications, titles and regulated activities in accordance with sections 16 and 17 of the Act.

This page provides factual, up-to-date information on significant regulatory matters being considered or determined by the Authority. Information is published at the appropriate stage of a regulatory process and is limited to information that may properly be made public. Publication of an update does not replace any formal decision, statutory process, approval or notification required under the Act.

Date last updated: 20/10/2026


licence

Regulatory matter

Date received

Current status

LAst regulatory update


EL1

Change of ownership/control GSR transfer to Wetstone

xx/xx/xx

Referred to Cabinet

SBMA has completed its assessment . The matter has been submitted to Cabinet for consideration


EL2

Correspondence and supporting documentation concerning a strategic arrangement involving American Ocean Minerals

15/03/2026

Assessment underway

SBMA is assessing the notification in accordance with the Seabed Minerals Act 2019.


EL3

Notice concerning an investment by American Ocean Minerals Corporation in Ocean Minerals LLC, the parent company of Moana Minerals Limited.

29/04/2026

Assessment underway

SBMA is assessing the notification in accordance with the Seabed Minerals Act 2019.


EL1

Renewal application submitted

2/10/2026

Assessment underway


EL2

Renewal application submitted

11/9/2026

Assessment underway

Renewal application paused pending cabinet consideration for ownership transfer to Wetstone


EL3

Renewal application submitted

1/10/2026

Assessment underway