In this article, we discuss Top 5 countries by Rhenium production. For more countries, go to Top 10 Countries by Rhenium Production.
5. Uzbekistan
Metric Tons: 4.9
Uzbekistan has emerged as a significant player in the production of Rhenium, with an output of 4.9 metric tons in 2021. The country boasts substantial mineral reserves, making it a key contributor to the global supply. Alongside Rhenium, Uzbekistan possesses abundant deposits of various non-ferrous metals, such as copper, lead, zinc, tungsten, and more. These reserves highlight the nation’s wealth in natural resources and its potential as a major player in the mining industry.
Uzbekistan’s dedication to extracting and utilizing these precious resources establishes it as a vital collaborator in fulfilling the worldwide need for Rhenium and other indispensable metals. With its diverse mineral wealth, the country holds promise for further growth and development in the mining sector.
4. Germany
Metric Tons: 6.89
In 2020, Germany produced a total of 6.89 metric tons of Rhenium. The flue dust obtained from the Mansfel smelter in Germany contains approximately 63 grams of Rhenium per ton. Rhenium is primarily sourced from molybdenite found in porphyry deposits, with Rhenium content ranging from 100 to 3,000 parts per million. Germany, through companies such as Buss & Buss Spezialmetalle, H.C. Starck, and Heraeus Precious Metals, engages in secondary production of Rhenium.
3. United States
Metric Tons: 9.1
According to CIA estimates in 2022, the United States heavily relies on imports to meet its Rhenium demands, with approximately 10 metric tons being imported. This reliance on imports accounts for 69% of the country’s overall Rhenium needs. Notably, when it comes to Rhenium metal powder imports specifically, Chile emerges as the primary supplier, providing 84% of the total. Meanwhile, Canada, Germany, and other sources contributed 8%, 6%, and 2% respectively, between 2018 and 2021.
In terms of overall Rhenium imports, Chile dominates the market, accounting for 63% of the total imported into the United States. Canada follows with a 10% share, while Germany, Kazakhstan, and other sources make up 8%, 7%, and 12%, respectively. These figures highlight the significant role that Chile plays in satisfying the United States’ Rhenium import requirements, as well as the diverse contributions from other nations in meeting the country’s overall demand.
When considering identified Rhenium resources, the United States possesses an estimated 5,000 metric tons, whereas the rest of the world collectively holds approximately 6,000 metric tons. These figures indicate that the United States has a notable reserve of Rhenium resources.
2. Poland
Metric Tons: 9.5
In 2007, Poland initiated the mass production of Rhenium from its domestic sources According to AZO Mining, Poland emerged as the fourth largest producer of Rhenium in 2010, primarily due to the efforts of KGHM Polska Miedz S.A., the country’s sole copper mining and production company back in the day. In addition, during that same year, KGHM Ecoren S.A. became a prominent player in the European market by being the exclusive producer of ammonium perrhenate (APR) and metallic Rhenium.
Notably, KGHM Ecoren accounted for approximately 9% of the global Rhenium output at that time, highlighting its significant role in the industry. This surge in Rhenium production has strengthened Poland’s position in the global market and showcased its potential as a key player in this sector.
1. Chile
Metric Tons: 29
Chile has strengthened its position as a major player in the Rhenium market. It produced 30 metric tons of Rhenium in 2020 and 29 metric tons in 2021, which is quite significant considering that the global Rhenium metal production in 2021 amounted to only 59 metric tons. Consequently, Chile solidifies its crucial role in the global market, not only as a major Copper producer but also as a leading Rhenium supplier, thereby making a substantial contribution to both industries.
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