The US Department of the Interior Initiates Evaluation for Potential Mineral Lease Sale in American Samoa Waters

The US Department of the Interior has announced it is initiating the process to evaluate a potential mineral lease sale in the waters offshore American Samoa. This significant decision marks the first such action by Interior in over three decades and could pave the way for future extraction of critical minerals from the U.S. Outer Continental Shelf.

Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum emphasized the importance of critical minerals in strengthening the nation’s resilience and safeguarding national interests. He stated, “By providing opportunities to responsibly access deep-sea mineral resources, we are supporting both American economic growth and national security.”

Interior manages approximately 3.2 billion acres of the Outer Continental Shelf, an area larger than the entire U.S. landmass. President Trump’s Executive Order “Unleashing America’s Offshore Critical Minerals and Resources” underscores the significance of seabed mineral development for U.S. national security, especially in light of increased activities by countries like China and Russia in the Pacific region.

On April 8, 2025, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management received a formal request for a lease sale from U.S.-based company Impossible Metals. In response, BOEM will commence a thorough evaluation process that prioritizes science, public engagement, and environmental stewardship.

The first step will involve the publication of a request for information and Interest in the Federal Register to gather input from various stakeholders, including the Indigenous Island community, ocean users, industry representatives, government agencies, and the general public. This feedback will inform BOEM’s assessment of geologic conditions, potential impacts on the environment and culture, and the various uses of the area.

BOEM is committed to full compliance with applicable laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the National Historic Preservation Act, to ensure responsible and sustainable mineral extraction practices.

Meanwhile, the International Seabed Authority has expressed concerns following the announcement that deep-sea mining firm The Metals Co has sought approval from the Trump administration to mine the international seabed. Leticia Reis de Carvalho, Secretary-General of the International Seabed Authority, highlighted the implications of the Executive Order on global ocean governance and the rule of law within the framework of UNCLOS (the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea).

The US’s engagement in deep-sea mining activities outside its jurisdiction raises specific concerns, considering its longstanding participation in the International Seabed Authority. The recent developments underscore the complexities and challenges associated with deep-sea mining and the need for international cooperation and adherence to established regulatory frameworks.