You can read all the latest news and updates on the Cook Islands seabed minerals sector here.
After four years of development and two rounds of public consultations, the Seabed Minerals (Minerals Harvesting and Other Mining) Regulations 2024 (MH Regulations) have now been passed.
The adoption of these regulations is a crucial step in establishing a comprehensive legal framework, providing all stakeholders with clarity and certainty regarding the Cook Islands' legal regime for seabed minerals governance, and are administered by the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA).
Read MoreOver 100 stakeholders and marine minerals experts from all across the globe have gathered for the International Underwater Minerals Conference (UMC) 2024 in Rarotonga this week.
The four-day conference, which began in 1970, will be held from Monday to Thursday this week at the National Auditorium, gathering marine minerals experts from over 25 countries.
UMC is the world’s largest gathering of ocean mineral stakeholders, including government, academic, and commercial sector professionals.
Read MoreWelcome to the latest in our science series, proudly brought to you by the Seabed Minerals Authority. Our goal is simple—to educate and empower readers by exploring the fundamental science behind deep ocean seabed minerals. Through these articles, we aim to unravel the mysteries of the deep sea and its rich resources, while showcasing the importance of sustainable and responsible exploration. Dive in with us as we journey to the ocean’s depths, discovering how each new finding brings us closer to better understanding our planet and safeguarding its future. Be sure to visit our website for more exciting science articles!
Read MorePrime Minister Mark Brown, accompanied by officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Seabed Minerals Authority, and the Cook Islands High Commission, recently held a productive meeting with the University of Auckland to explore potential areas of collaboration in ocean research.
Read MoreA Cook Islands delegation, led by Assistant Minister to the Prime Minister, Honourable Sonny Williams, attended the International Seabed Authority's (ISA) 29th Council and Assembly Sessions, held in Kingston, Jamaica, from 15 July to 2 August. The Commissioner Alex Herman and Senior Knowledge Management Officer Rima Browne from the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) attended the Council meetings and were later joined by the Assistant Minister and Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Foreign Service Officer, Tatryanna Utanga, for the Assembly.
Read MoreLast month marked two years since the country’s first seabed minerals exploration licences were issued on 23 February 2022. A major milestone and achievement for the Cook Islands after many years of preparation.
Read MoreParliament unanimously approved the Seabed Minerals Amendment Bill 2024 yesterday.
The purpose of the amendments were to improve the overall seabed minerals regime. This included making the intent of some sections clearer, as well as changes to enable the Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) to fulfil its functions more effectively.
Read MoreThe Seabed Minerals Authority (SBMA) manages a Research Permit for small environmental programs in the Cook Islands waters, granted by the National Research Council (rpSEP).
Read MoreCook Islands concludes public consultation for seabed mineral exploration guidelines, while the Prime Minister emphasises exploration’s potential for future prosperity and responsible resource extraction.
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