The global energy and mineral market is a complex and ever changing landscape of nations and resources that drives the world forward. One of the most important elements in this market is uranium, a vital component of nuclear reactors. In recent years, the global demand for uranium has increased significantly due to the rapid growth in the use of nuclear power. This has caused uranium reserves to become an increasingly valuable commodity in many parts of the world. As a result, a number of countries now maintain vast stockpiles of uranium to meet their energy needs.
This article aims to identify the top five countries with the largest uranium reserves, and the latest estimates of their respective holdings. The information presented here is based on the most recent data available, compiled in 2023.
Coming in at number one is Kazakhstan, a central Asian nation boasting one of the world’s largest supplies of uranium. According to UN figures, Kazakhstan has an estimated 1.7 million metric tonnes of uranium, equivalent to nearly one-third of the world’s total uranium reserves.
In second place is Canada, which is estimated to hold 1.2 million metric tonnes of uranium reserves. Canada is a major supplier of uranium ore, with major exports to the United States, France, and Japan.
The United States is in third place with an estimated 891,000 metric tonnes of uranium reserves. Despite being one of the top producers of uranium ore, the United States has become increasingly dependent on foreign supplies of uranium due to a lack of domestic production.
Fourth on the list is Australia, another major exporter of uranium ore. Australia is estimated to have 807,000 metric tonnes of uranium reserves. Australia is also a major supplier to several nuclear power plants around the world, including two in Japan.
Finally, Niger rounds out the top five countries with uranium reserves, with an estimated 534,000 metric tonnes of uranium ore.
This data clearly demonstrates the importance of uranium reserves to the global energy and mineral market. As demand for this critical resource continues to grow, it is likely that these top five countries with the largest uranium reserves will continue to have a major influence over the industry.