Specialists from the Visual Capitalist portal, based on data from the US Geological Survey (USGS), have shown where the world’s known reserves of Rare Earth Elements (REE) are located. The infographic particularly highlights that these resources are disproportionately concentrated in the hands of a very small number of countries. These elements are considered key raw materials for modern technology and the defense industry.
Beijing's Absolute Dominance
The biggest disproportion in the distribution is in China. Beijing leads with 44 million tons—this constitutes nearly half of the total global reserves of 91.9 million tons. Brazil holds a solid second place with 21 million tons (23%), but most of its large deposits are still in the early stages of development.
US Strategic Vulnerability
Countries such as India (6.9 million tonnes), Australia (5.7 million tonnes), Russia (3.8 million tonnes), and Vietnam (3.5 million tonnes) are ahead of the US in terms of reserves. A total of six leading countries control approximately 80% of all known reserves. The United States, however, only has 1.9 million tonnes (2%) of REE reserves. These figures once again prove the strong dependence of the US on import and processing chains.
America's Response
In recent months, the Trump administration has sought to reduce the dependency of the US on Chinese suppliers. To achieve this goal, measures are being taken to finance national mining projects, expedite the permitting process, and strengthen cooperation with allied nations by diversifying supply chains in various ways.
Read “Zamin” on Telegram!
Users of Меҳмон are not allowed to comment this publication.
