Peru remains the world’s largest holder of silver reserves, accounting for 110,000 metric tons, or 18% of global known reserves.
According to the US Geological Survey Mineral Commodity Summaries, the South American nation sits comfortably ahead of Russia and Australia, which hold 92,000 metric tons and 91,000 metric tons, respectively.
Together, the three countries account for almost half of the world’s known silver reserves, highlighting their strategic importance to future supply of the precious metal.
Global silver reserves currently stand at 610,000 metric tons.
China ranks fourth with 67,000 metric tons of silver reserves, representing 11% of the global inventory. Poland follows with 59,000 metric tons, while a collection of other countries contribute a combined 57,000 metric tons.
Mexico, historically one of the world’s largest silver producers, holds 37,000 metric tons of reserves, accounting for 6.1% of the global total. Chile is close behind with 33,000 metric tons, while the United States and Bolivia host 23,000 metric tons and 22,000 metric tons, respectively.
Smaller reserve holders include India with 8,000 metric tons, Argentina with 6,500 metric tons, and Canada with 4,900 metric tons.
The distribution of silver reserves demonstrates a relatively concentrated global supply base, with a handful of countries controlling a significant portion of known resources.
While Peru has maintained its position as the leading reserve holder for several years, Australia continues to reinforce its standing as a major silver jurisdiction through ongoing exploration success across several mineral provinces.
Russia also remains a critical contributor despite geopolitical uncertainties that continue to shape global commodity markets.
Silver in emerging technologies
Silver plays an important role across both industrial and investment markets.
In addition to its traditional use in jewellery and bullion products, the metal is increasingly sought after for solar panels, electronics, electric vehicles, and emerging clean energy technologies.
Growing industrial demand has intensified interest in long-term silver supply security, placing greater emphasis on countries with substantial reserves and development pipelines.
Write to Bruno Venditti at Mining.com.au
Images: Mining.com.au
