Rare earth element reserves: China leads, USA lags behind
Based on data from the US Geological Survey (USGS), the Visual Capitalist portal conducted an analysis of where rare earth element (REE) reserves are located. This was reported by Zamin.uz.
These elements are the primary raw materials for modern technologies and the defense industry. The infographic shows that these resources are disproportionately concentrated in the hands of a few countries.
**China's leadership** The largest REE reserves in the world are located in China. This country leads with 44 million tons of reserves.
This amount is nearly half of the world's total reserves of 91.9 million tons. Brazil ranks second, with 21 million tons (23%) of reserves.
However, many of Brazil's mines have not yet been fully developed. **The US's weak position** The US lags behind in terms of REE reserves worldwide.
The United States has only 1.9 million tons (2%) of reserves. This figure indicates the US's heavy dependence on import and processing chains.
Countries such as India (6.9 million tons), Australia (5.7 million tons), Russia (3.8 million tons), and Vietnam (3.5 million tons) are far ahead of the US. **US plans** Recently, the US government has been taking measures to reduce dependence on China.
Plans are being developed to increase funding for national mining development, accelerate the permitting process, and strengthen cooperation with other countries. The goal is to diversify supply chains.
These efforts are aimed at reducing the strategic vulnerabilities of the US.
