Critical minerals are now among the most valuable resources in the world. They are used in various industries such as electric vehicle (EV) batteries, semiconductor chips, artificial intelligence (AI) data centers, renewable energy and defense.
Control over these minerals not only provides economic advantages, but also affects a country's position in global technological and geopolitical competition.
1. China – Rare Earth, Graphite and Antimony
China is the world's leading producer of rare earths, accounting for over 60% of global production.
The country also controls over 90% of the rare earth refining process, making it the main supplier of materials for producing magnets used in EVs, smartphones and defense equipment.
2. Democratic Republic of Congo – Cobalt
The Democratic Republic of Congo contributes around 70% of the world's cobalt production. This mineral is very important in the manufacture of electric vehicle batteries, while many mining companies in the country have received investment from China.
3. Indonesia – Nickel
Indonesia is the world's largest nickel producer. Nickel is a key ingredient in lithium-ion batteries and the country is now emerging as the largest nickel processing hub in Southeast Asia.
4. Australia – Lithium
Australia is one of the world’s largest producers of lithium and has very large reserves. Lithium is widely used in EV batteries and energy storage systems.
5. Chile – Lithium and Copper
Chile has one of the world’s largest lithium reserves and is also a major producer of copper. Both minerals are important for batteries, the electricity grid and the development of green energy.
6. Peru – Copper
Peru is one of the world’s largest producers of copper. The metal is used in electrical cables, electric vehicles and energy infrastructure, with demand expected to continue to grow in the future.
7. South Africa – Platinum
South Africa is the world’s largest producer of platinum. Platinum is used in the automotive industry, hydrogen technology and the chemical industry. The country also has large reserves of chromium and manganese.
8. Guinea – Bauxite
Guinea has one of the world’s largest reserves of bauxite. Bauxite is the main raw material for producing aluminium, which is used in the construction, transport and aerospace industries.
9. Brazil – Niobium
Brazil controls over 80% of the world’s niobium supply. The mineral is used to produce high-performance steels that are essential in the aerospace industry, modern construction and a variety of high-tech applications.
Competition for the critical mineral is intensifying as the world accelerates the transition to clean energy and AI technologies.
Countries that control this mineral’s resources not only reap economic benefits, but also have a strategic advantage that can influence global supply chains and future technological developments.
