Mapping the World's Rare Earth Metal Dominance: Where Does Indonesia Stand?

The Mineral Industry Agency (BIM) has disclosed the global distribution map for the production and reserves of rare earth elements (REE). Currently, China, Vietnam, and Russia are recorded as the countries with the largest REE reserves in the world.

Yogi Wibisono Budhi, BIM Deputy for Research and Technological Development, explained that the distribution map includes data on resources, reserves, and international production figures. However, Yogi noted that Indonesia has not yet appeared on this map, as the processes of mapping and field data validation are still being finalised.

“When we look at the distribution map of rare earth production and reserves abroad, several countries have indeed made statements regarding their resources, reserves, and production. This information provides a very strong bargaining position for each respective nation,” he stated during an event organised by the Indonesian Mining Experts Association (Perhapi) at JIExpo, as reported on Monday.

Based on 2023 USGS data cited by the agency, China currently holds the largest REE reserves, with a total of 44 million tonnes and production reaching 210,000 tonnes. Vietnam ranks second with 22 million tonnes in reserves and 4,200 tonnes in production, followed by Russia and Brazil, with reserves of 21 million tonnes and production of 2,600 tonnes and 80 tonnes respectively.

The following is the list of countries with the largest REE reserves in the world:

• China: 44 million tonnes reserve; 210,000 tonnes production

• Vietnam: 22 million tonnes reserve; 4,200 tonnes production

• Russia: 21 million tonnes reserve; 2,600 tonnes production

• Brazil: 21 million tonnes reserve; 80 tonnes production

• India: 6.9 million tonnes reserve; 2,900 tonnes production

• Australia: 4.2 million tonnes reserve; 18,000 tonnes production

• United States: 2.3 million tonnes reserve; 43,000 tonnes production

• Greenland: 1.5 million tonnes reserve

• Tanzania: 890,000 tonnes reserve

• Canada: 830,000 tonnes reserve

• South Africa: 790,000 tonnes reserve

Indonesia’s absence from this map is not due to a lack of potential, but rather because it is awaiting the completion of survey and exploration activities, as well as the readiness of human resources.

“In this map, Indonesia has not yet been featured. This does not mean it does not exist; we are currently ensuring and awaiting the completion of several survey and exploration activities. Furthermore, we need to prepare competent personnel so that, in due course, we can promptly provide our official statements,” he concluded.