The world’s dependency on nickel is rapidly growing as technological advancements and environmental regulations make it a pivotal resource for renewable energies, electronics, and industrial applications. Nickel is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles, making its reserve essential for the shift towards green energy. In this article, we will explore the top nine countries with the most significant nickel reserves, according to data updated in 2024.
First on the list is New Caledonia, a French territory located in the southwest Pacific Ocean, with reported reserves of 6.7 million metric tons. Primarily located in the Goro, Koniambo, and Thio regions, New Caledonia’s lateritic nickel deposits are among the world’s largest, with over 30% of the world’s total nickel reserves.
Australia ranks second with a breathtaking figure of 20 million metric tons, nearly three times that of New Caledonia. With significant deposits scattered across Western Australia, Queensland, and New South Wales, Australia stands as a crucial supplier to many industries worldwide, including the rapid proliferation of renewable energy.
Next on the list is Brazil, hosting 11 million metric tons of nickel reserves. This Latin American nation, known for its diverse natural resources availability, boasts of its nickel reserves located primarily in the Barro Alto and the Niquelândia regions.
The Philippines takes the fourth spot with a commendable 4.8 million metric tons. The Archipelago nation is rich in nickel laterite ores, mainly found in the regions of Palawan and Surigao.
Following closely in the fifth position is Russia. The country possesses approximately 7.6 million metric tons of nickel reserves, with Norilsk being the most significant nickel-producing region in the country.
Canada ranks sixth with a reserve of 2.9 million metric tons. The Sudbury region in Ontario is known for its rich nickel deposits due to a massive meteorite impact approximately 1.85 billion years ago.
In the seventh position is Indonesia with 4.9 million metric tons. The country is home to the world’s largest gold mine and also has substantial nickel reserves, primarily found in Sulawesi and Maluku islands.
Botswana is the eighth on the list, possessing 1.2 million metric tons of nickel reserves. The majority of its nickel deposits are located in the Northeast district, around the Selebi-Pikwe area and the Francistown region.
Wrapping up the list is Cuba with a reserve of approximately 5.3 million metric tons. The country’s nickel ore is mostly found in the regions of Moa, Nicaro, and Punta Gorda.
Each of the countries mentioned above plays a significant role in the global nickel industry. Their wealth of nickel reserves strengthens their economic landscapes while simultaneously fortifying the world’s transition to green energy and high-end technologies. Nickel’s importance cannot be overstated; hence, understanding the global distribution of these nickel reserves is key to forecasting future global trends. Thus, assiduously maintaining an updated account of the world’s nickel resources is a pivotal aspect of various national and global industries’ strategic planning.