You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
The Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA), in collaboration with other partners such as the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA), University of California Santa Barbara, and Kiva Marine, recently went volcano hunting without a seabed mineral in sight. Keep reading if you want to find out why and how.
Read MoreThe Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) recently participated in the first of its kind Ministerial Talanoa on Deep Sea Minerals (DSM), convened by the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat in Suva, Fiji, from 18 to 21 February 2025.
The Talanoa brought together Pacific Island Forum leaders, ministers and senior officials, and regional and international stakeholders to discuss the opportunities and challenges of DSM development and governance in the Pacific.
Read MoreThe Cook Islands has reached a significant milestone with the first-ever deployment of three deep-sea environmental monitoring mooring arrays north of Aitutaki (figure 1). Conducted under approved exploration licences, this initiative was a joint effort between Moana Minerals Limited (MML) and Cobalt Seabed Resources Limited (CSR).
Read MoreCook Islands and China have agreed to cooperate on blue economy investments, including new port wharves and deep sea minerals development, under a newly signed memorandum of understanding (MoU).
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreThe National Environment Service (NES) says it plays a crucial role in assessing and reviewing environmental matters associated with seabed mineral activities.
This includes the administration of applications for environmental consents and permits. In collaboration with the Seabed Mining Authority (SBMA), the NES ensures regulatory oversight and compliance with environmental management and reporting requirements set forth by license conditions and environmental consents or permits.
Read MoreCook 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.
Read MorePrime 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.
Read MoreOpposition leader Tina Browne has claimed that the meaning of the word “consultation” is lost on the Government, following a government-led seabed minerals meeting that was held in New Zealand last week.
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