The expansion of deep-sea mineral resource exploration is a key component of national security and economic policy, as outlined in the April 2025 Executive Order, “Unleashing America’s Offshore Minerals and Resources.” The newly established option of a consolidated application process enables eligible applicants to simultaneously apply for and receive an exploration license and commercial recovery permit.
As the next interim step in the TMC USA application review process, NOAA is announcing a 60-day public comment period in the Federal Register that will conclude on October 19, 2026. Additionally, a virtual public hearing will be held on October 13, 2026, from 3–5 p.m. ET, to receive oral comments.
Feedback from the public and other federal agencies will inform NOAA’s decision on whether to certify the company’s application. In order to certify, NOAA must make specified findings under DSHMRA and the regulations, including those regarding the applicant’s financial responsibility and technological capability, as well as the sufficiency of the proposed exploration and commercial recovery plan. If certified, NOAA would then evaluate the environmental impacts of issuing an exploration license and commercial recovery permit through an environmental impact statement, which would include additional opportunities for public comment.
“NOAA is proud to set the global standard for science-based deep-sea mining practices,” said NOAA Administrator Neil Jacobs, Ph.D. “Our review process is built to ensure responsibility within this emerging industry as we unlock access to these critical resources for the benefit of our nation.”
TMC USA submitted a consolidated application for an exploration license and a commercial recovery permit on February 6, 2026. The application covers proposed activities in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone, a region of the central Pacific Ocean situated between Hawaii and Mexico. This and other seabed areas contain critical minerals essential for defense systems, electronics, and renewable energy technologies, reducing reliance on foreign supply chains. Following a technical review, NOAA has determined that the consolidated application is fully compliant with the applicable information requirements of DSHMRA and its implementing regulations.
DSHMRA mandates that NOAA oversee the licensing and permitting of exploration for and commercial recovery of hard mineral resources in areas beyond national jurisdiction. Recent regulatory updates now allow for a consolidated application process for qualified applicants who can demonstrate that they possess the scientific, technical, and financial resources to pursue commercial recovery activities in an expeditious and diligent manner, facilitating more efficient reviews while maintaining rigorous environmental and technical standards.
For detailed information on how to submit comments or register for the public hearing, please visit NOAA’s Deep Seabed Minerals Resources page.
