China advances seawater resource technology to unlock strategic mineral reserves

China is accelerating the development of advanced seawater resource technologies as the country seeks to unlock vast reserves of strategic minerals contained in the world's oceans, according to a new report released by the Ministry of Natural Resources.

The report highlights significant progress in seawater utilisation, including advances in the extraction of valuable elements such as uranium, lithium and deuterium. Researchers have successfully achieved kilogram-scale uranium extraction in real marine environments, marking an important milestone in the development of next-generation resource technologies.

Experts note that the oceans contain enormous quantities of strategic minerals essential for energy security, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies, as reported by Xinhua News Agency, a TV BRICS partner. Global seawater reserves of uranium alone are estimated at around 4.5 billion tonnes, vastly exceeding known terrestrial reserves and highlighting the long-term potential of marine resources.

The report also underscores the continued expansion of China's seawater desalination and comprehensive utilisation sector. Desalination capacity has grown steadily in recent years, supporting water security, industrial development and sustainable resource management.

Alongside freshwater production, seawater is playing an increasingly important role in industrial applications, reflecting broader efforts to optimise resource use and improve environmental sustainability.

During the country's 2026–2030 development period, authorities plan to further advance key technologies, modernise specialised equipment and strengthen scientific capabilities related to the extraction of strategic elements from seawater. The initiative is expected to enhance innovation in marine science while supporting future demand for critical resources.

As research and technological capabilities continue to evolve, seawater is increasingly being recognised not only as a source of freshwater but also as a potentially transformative reservoir of strategic resources that could contribute to sustainable economic development and long-term resource resilience.