US to auction deep sea mining leases off American Samoa

The United States has finalized plans for deep-sea mining auctions off the coast of American Samoa, marking the first such auction in the nation's history. Despite local opposition and concerns from environmental groups, the lease sales will cover approximately 31 million acres across two regions beyond American Samoa's territorial waters.

Acting director Mike Olsen of the Marine Minerals Administration emphasized the importance of critical minerals as strategic assets for energy efficiency, national defense, and domestic supply chains. The auction follows a 2025 executive order by President Trump, recognizing deep-sea mining as a core national security and economic interest.

Companies aim to extract polymetallic nodules containing nickel, copper, and cobalt from the ocean's abyssal plains. Critics warn of irreversible environmental damage, including harm to marine life and disruptions to migrations. American Samoa banned deep-sea mining in its territorial waters in 2024, but the federal government controls the Outer Continental Shelf, thus allowing these auctions to proceed.

Governor Nikolao Pula of American Samoa expressed no support for commercial deep-sea mineral extraction at this time, while acknowledging the final decision rests with the US government. Environmental organizations, scientists, and community members have strongly opposed the proposal, urging the government to halt deep-sea mining before it begins.

The area is situated near the Rose Atoll marine sanctuary, home to endangered hawksbill turtles and vibrant coral reefs.