Exploring Seabed Mining in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR): Policy and Governance Insights for Pakistan
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58932/MULG0057Keywords:
Deep seabed mining, Green technologies, Strategic resources, Blue economy, Sustainable mining practices, International Seabed Authority (ISA)Abstract
Deep Seabed Mining (DSM) has emerged as a critical avenue in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR), primarily for key stakeholders like China and India. These nations have already identified DSM as a way to secure critical energy minerals and metals – necessary for green technology transformation, which could boost their economies and industrial capabilities. Despite having significant maritime territorial claims under UNCLOS, Pakistan is lagging behind in utilizing such an opportunity. This research paper aims to examine the deep seabed exploration and mining strategies of China and India to identify actionable policies for Pakistan to advance in DSM industry. This research relies on extensive qualitative and thematic analysis to analyze the technological, legal and environmental frameworks these nations have implemented to gain upper edge in DSM capabilities. Furthermore, this study identifies gaps that challenge Pakistan in its healthy participation in DSM program. Subsequently, the findings reveal that China’s centralized governance approach contrasts with India’s multi-institutional strategy. Based on these models, Pakistan should follow a coordinated step-by-step approach. This piece of research puts forth recommendations to reform the policy framework, enhance technological advancement through international collaborations for a balanced approach to initiate its seabed mining industry and addressing both environmental and economic concerns.
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