The United States and the Cook Islands have opened formal talks on exploring seabed minerals within the Cook Islands’ exclusive economic zone, signing a joint commitment on 5 August to advance research, mapping and “responsible development” of deep‑sea resources. The announcement — made as the Cook Islands marked the 60th anniversary of its free association with New Zealand — described the move as “a new chapter” in bilateral ties since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 2023.
The joint statement pledges collaboration on scientific research, transparent resource management and environmental stewardship, and says the partnership will combine the Cook Islands’ maritime resources with U.S. ocean research and technology expertise. U.S.-linked companies are noted as active in deep‑seabed research and exploration in the Cook Islands, the statement added.
Context and status
– The Cook Islands is in a five‑year exploration phase for polymetallic nodules — potato‑sized mineral deposits on the seabed that contain nickel, cobalt, manganese and other metals important to renewable energy and battery technologies. If pursued commercially, the nation could become one of the first to mine the ocean floor.
– Three companies currently hold exploration licences in Cook Islands waters: Moana Minerals, Transocean Ltd. and CIC Ltd.
– China has already deepened its engagement in the region: earlier in 2025 the Cook Islands Seabed Minerals Authority signed a memorandum of understanding with China’s Ministry of Natural Resources on seabed mineral research and capacity building. China also has seabed partnerships with Kiribati and Nauru.
– The United States has recently renewed its own push into deep‑sea mining. An executive order issued by President Donald Trump on 24 April directed federal agencies to accelerate access to seabed critical minerals and bolster U.S. capabilities in extraction, processing and secure supply chains for defence, infrastructure and energy sectors.
Domestic and regional reactions
– The Cook Islands government framed the initiative as a pathway to scientific advancement, economic self‑reliance and long‑term prosperity. Prime Minister and ministers have emphasised that current activity is exploratory and subject to environmental assessment and regulation.
– Opposition voices and environmental groups in the Cook Islands have urged caution. Opposition leader Tina Browne warned of risks to the nation’s oceanic heritage and identity, calling for a national pause until environmental and social impacts are fully assessed. Local NGOs have echoed concerns about potential irreversible damage to fragile deep‑sea ecosystems.
– New Zealand, which holds constitutional ties with the Cook Islands and is consulted on foreign and security policy, said it was aware of the new U.S. arrangement and respected the Cook Islands’ rights and responsibilities in managing its mineral resources.
Why this matters
The race to secure seabed minerals is driven by global demand for metals used in electric vehicles, batteries and renewable energy infrastructure, and by geopolitical considerations to diversify supply chains away from dominant suppliers. For the Cook Islands, seabed resources represent potential revenue and opportunity for development; for external partners, they offer strategic access to critical minerals and scientific cooperation. At the same time, deep‑sea environments remain poorly understood, and scientists warn that mining could cause long‑term ecological harm.
Additional comments and considerations for readers and editors
– Key follow‑ups to watch: timelines for environmental impact assessments, the Cook Islands’ regulatory framework for seabed activities, any permits or commercial licences issued after the exploration phase, and the specifics of technology‑transfer or capacity‑building agreements with foreign partners.
– Locally grounded reporting is important: include perspectives from Cook Islands communities, fisheries and tourism operators, and independent marine scientists to balance economic and environmental narratives.
– Clarify legal jurisdiction: the Cook Islands asserts jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone, but activities beyond national zones involve the International Seabed Authority; coverage should explain where proposed activity would take place and which rules apply.
Short summary
The U.S. and Cook Islands have agreed to cooperate on scientific mapping and responsible exploration of seabed minerals after signing a joint statement on 5 August. The Cook Islands is in a five‑year exploration phase for polymetallic nodules, while China already holds an MOU with the islands. The move has drawn both government support for potential economic gains and opposition over environmental risks; New Zealand has noted the arrangement while respecting Cook Islands’ rights.
Hopeful angle
If handled transparently and guided by rigorous, peer‑reviewed science and strong local consultation, the partnership could deliver benefits such as strengthened marine research capacity in the Cook Islands, technology transfer, and potential revenue that can be invested in climate resilience and community development — while setting a regional precedent for high environmental and governance standards in any future seabed activity.
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