1. Indonesia
Indonesia tops the list of nickel-producing countries. This Southeast Asian country possesses the largest nickel reserves globally, totaling about 21 million tonnes. Indonesia’s top mining companies PT Aneka Tambang and PT Vale Indonesia account for a large proportion of this production, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. Since the country’s ban on nickel ore exports in January 2020, local producers have made a significant investment in refining capabilities, pushing the country higher up the value chain.
2. Philippines
Closely following Indonesia is the Philippines, known for its rich mineral deposits. More than half of the world’s nickel reserves are found in the Philippines, and its production has significantly risen due to increasing demand, particularly from China. Major producers such as Nickel Asia Corporation and Global Ferronickel Holdings Incorporated have greatly contributed to the Philippines’ production capacity.
3. New Caledonia
New Caledonia, a French territory in the South Pacific, is another significant producer of nickel. It possesses approximately ten percent of the world’s nickel reserves. SLN nickel company, the primary producer, has been a key player in the territory’s economy for over a century. However, political and environmental concerns pose potential challenges for future nickel production in the area.
4. Russia
Russia, home to the worldwide-known Norilsk Nickel, is a significant global player. Norilsk Nickel is not only the largest mining and metal company in Russia, but it is also the world’s leading nickel producer. Despite being challenged by aging infrastructure and harsh climatic conditions, Russia has maintained its standing in the global marketplace due to its vast and rich mineral resources.
5. Australia
Australia’s sprawling landmass is richly endowed with mineral resources, including nickel. Western Areas, Mincor Resources, and Independence Group NL are among the leading nickel producers in Australia. These companies are increasingly investing in new resources and implementing new technologies to increase their productive capacity and efficiency.
6. Canada
Canada is well placed on the global production scale, with Quebec, Manitoba, and Ontario being the most active provinces. Companies like Vale Canada, Sherritt International, and Glencore are key contributors to Canada’s nickel production. Despite fluctuations in global nickel prices, Canada’s vast mineral reserves have been a driving force behind its steady production.
7. Brazil
Brazil’s Vale S.A is one of the top nickel producers worldwide. Although nickel may not immediately spring to mind when thinking of Brazil, the country is a significant contributor. Located in the Amazon rainforest, Vale’s operations face challenges including preserving a delicate ecosystem while also pursuing nickel mining operations.
8. China
Despite not being as resource-rich as the countries listed above, China is a significant player in the nickel industry. This owes much to its vast domestic market and state-of-the-art refining capabilities. The Jinchuan Group and Tsingshan Holding Group are among the top producers, making China one of the global leaders in nickel production.
9. Colombia
Although Colombia is better known for its gold and coal, it has made substantial advances in nickel production. The Cerro Matoso mine, owned by South32, is one of the largest nickel mines globally, contributing significantly to the country’s nickel output. Colombia’s mineral industry is growing, showing promise for the future of nickel production.
