Uranium
March 26, 2025
1 min
Uranium
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Uranium, the key fuel for nuclear energy, is not evenly distributed around the world. Its concentration in a few countries has major geopolitical and economic implications. This graphic, based on data from the World Nuclear Association, showcases where uranium is found.
The Big Players
If you’re wondering which country has the most uranium, look no further than Australia. With 1.68 million tonnes, it holds 28% of the world’s known uranium resources. Why?
Australia’s vast uranium resources are due to its unique geology. Stable cratons and ancient rock formations—like the Pine Creek Orogen and Gawler Craton—created ideal conditions for uranium deposition over millions of years. Large, undeveloped land areas have allowed for extensive exploration, leading to high-grade deposits such as Olympic Dam, Ranger, and Jabiluka. Strict environmental regulations and minimal domestic nuclear energy use mean much of its uranium remains untapped, preserving vast resources for future production.
Kazakhstan comes in second with 13% of global resources, but it’s the world’s top uranium producer, supplying nearly half of all uranium used today.
Kazakhstan’s vast resources stem from its geology, featuring large sedimentary basins ideal for uranium deposition. The country's resources are primarily found in sandstone-hosted roll-front deposits, which are well-suited for in-situ recovery (ISR), a cost-effective and environmentally friendly mining method. Key uranium-rich regions include the Chu-Sarysu and Syrdarya basins, formed under favorable geological conditions.
Canada (10%), Russia (8%), and Namibia (8%) round out the top five. These nations dominate global uranium production and play a major role in shaping the future of nuclear energy. Their uranium wealth comes from distinct geological features:
- Canada (Athabasca Basin): Home to the world’s highest-grade uranium, hosted in ancient sandstone formations.
- Russia: Holds diverse uranium resources in sandstone and hard rock deposits, with strong state-backed exploration.
- Namibia: Rich in large, low-grade uranium deposits within stable geological formations, making it a key producer, particularly via open-pit mining.
Beyond the Top Five
Africa also holds a significant share, with Namibia, South Africa, and Niger collectively accounting for nearly 18% of global uranium resources. Meanwhile, Mongolia, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine are emerging players, each holding 2% of the world’s uranium.
Source: World Nuclear Association
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