Mapping the Sources of Your Smartphone’s Critical Metal

Africa Dominates Tantalum Supply (60%+ Global Output)
You’ll find the world’s largest tantalum reserves here, but ethical sourcing is critical:

• 🇷🇼 Rwanda (35% of production)
  • Key mines: Gatumba, Gifurwe
  • Output: ~1,500 tonnes Ta₂O₅/year (USGS 2023)
  • Fact: 100% tagged under iTSCi traceability (iTSCi Report)
• 🇨🇩 D.R. Congo (25%)
  • Source: Artisanal coltan in North Kivu
  • Challenge: 30% conflict-linked (OECD red zones)
  • Progress: Certified “green mines” now supply Apple/Tesla

The Americas: High-Grade Industrial Mining
Your premium aerospace/medical tantalum likely originates here:

• 🇧🇷 Brazil (15%)
  • Mine: MIBRA (Minas Gerais)
  • Grade: World’s highest ore purity (0.35% Ta₂O₅)
  • Operator: AMG Advanced Metallurgical Group
• 🇨🇦 Canada (Emerging Player)
  • Project: Upper Fir (British Columbia)
  • Innovation: AI-powered ore sorting

Asia-Pacific: Sustainable Industrial Scale
Your ethically “low-risk” supply comes primarily from:

• 🇦🇺 Australia (12%)
  • Mine: Wodgina (Pilbara)
  • Capacity: 330,000 t/year ore
  • Operator: Mineral Resources Ltd (ASX: MIN)
  • ESG Edge: Solar-powered processing (Company Report)
• 🇨🇳 China (8%)
  • Source: Jiangxi hard-rock mines + African imports
  • Control: Refines 40% of global output

Europe’s Recycled Tantalum Revolution
Your “green” tech may contain European-recovered metal:

• ♻️ Urban Mining Leaders:
  • Germany (Umicore)
  • Belgium (Solvay)
  • Output: 300 t/year recycled Ta (Circular Economy boost)
  • Source: EIT RawMaterials Data

Why Origin Matters for Your Supply Chain
Choose producers based on these critical factors: