Highlights

• Kazakhstan announces discovery of 20 million metric ton rare earth metals deposit.
• Location: 420 kilometers from the capital.
• Deposit contains key elements like:
  • Neodymium
  • Cerium
  • Lanthanum
  • Yttrium
• 700 grams of metal per ton.
• If confirmed, Kazakhstan could become the third-largest rare earth metals reserve globally, behind China and Brazil.

Kazakhstan has announced the discovery of a major rare earth metals deposit estimated at over 20 million metric tons, located up to 300 meters underground, according to a statement from the country's industry and construction ministry, according to Reuters (opens in a new tab).

The newly identified Zhana Kazakhstan site, situated 420 kilometers from the capital, contains key rare earth elements including neodymium, cerium, lanthanum, and yttrium, with an average metal content of 700 grams per ton.

If confirmed, the find would make Kazakhstan the third-largest holder of rare earth reserves globally, behind China and Brazil—despite not currently appearing on the U.S. Geological Survey’s list. No details were provided on potential developers or project timelines.