Rare-Earth Reserves by Country 2026

Rare-earth elements (REEs) are some of the most valuable resources on Earth. Though these elements occur naturally, they are rarely found in quantities large enough to mine. Therefore, when they are uncovered in suitable quantities, they are immediately valuable. There are seventeen rare earth elements in total, all of which are chemically metallic. Some of the most common examples of rare-earth elements include cerium, yttrium, and lanthanum. While they bear similarities to industrial metals, such as tin, lead, and zinc, rare-earth elements are different.

Confusion often arises around terms used to describe rare earth materials. “Rare earth elements” is the most precise term, while variations such as “rare earth metals” or “rare earth oxides” refer to different physical or chemical forms. The shorthand “rare earths” is also commonly used, though it is less specific and is best used in clear context.

The Uses for Rare Earth Elements

Rare earth metals have many applications, but the vast majority of them fall under the category of advanced technology. Many rare earth metals are used in smartphones and computer hard drives. These metals can also play a critical role in the development of batteries.

As technology advances, and the use of computers and electric automobiles grows, the value of rare earth metals is projected to rise.

Countries with the Largest Reserves of Rare Earth Elements

A significant chunk of the Earth’s rare earth metals is located in China, and it is in the process of being extracted. Brazil also has relatively large quantities of rare earth metals, at approximately half the tonnage of rare earth metals when compared to China. This country is still developing and in the process of extracting these natural resources.

A few other countries also have relatively large supplies of rare earth metals. India, Australia, and Russia each have a few million metric tons of rare earth metals. The United States also has a sizable amount of rare earth mineral reserves, occupying about the middle spot on the list.

The Biggest Rare Earth Element Mine in the World

China is also home to the largest rare earth element mine, which is located in Inner Mongolia, a part of China. It is called the Bayan Obo mine, and it is the biggest producer of rare earth elements in the world. Many industries rely on the rare earth metals that come out of this mine.