Natural resources are the building blocks of everything around us. From the cars we drive to the gadgets we use, they are crucial in making the products we rely on. But did you know that just a handful of countries control most of these valuable resources? According to 2021 data from Statista, there are 10 countries in the world that have the most natural resources, and these countries hold the key to industries across the globe.

Let’s take a closer look at these global giants and what they’re sitting on.

1. Russia: A $75 Trillion Treasure Chest

When it comes to natural resources, Russia is in a league of its own. With a staggering $75 trillion worth of natural wealth, Russia tops the list. This treasure chest includes everything from coal and natural gas to oil and rare earth metals.

One of Russia’s most valuable assets is its natural gas—the country holds the world’s largest reserves, making up almost 20% of the global total. In fact, as of 2020, Russia had 1.32 quadrillion cubic feet of proven natural gas reserves! Russia is also a gold powerhouse, with massive reserves of precious metals that have helped boost its economy.

Russia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and the Environment estimated that its mineral reserves were worth a whopping $1.44 trillion in 2018. With such a vast stockpile, Russia’s influence in the global energy market is undeniable.

2. United States: The $45 Trillion Resource Giant

Coming in second is the United States, with natural resources valued at $45 trillion. The U.S. is rich in coal, timber, and natural gas, and is also home to precious metals like gold. The U.S. has long been a key player in the global market, relying on its abundant resources to fuel its industries.

While not as dominant as Russia in natural gas, the U.S. is a major producer of coal, a fuel that is still crucial to many industries. The vast timber resources in the U.S. also make it a top producer in the global lumber market.

3. Saudi Arabia: The Heart of Global Oil

Saudi Arabia is synonymous with oil, and it’s no surprise that it ranks third on the list, thanks to its massive oil fields. Saudi Arabia’s oil reserves have made it one of the most powerful countries in the global energy market, and the country is a leading exporter of crude oil to the world.

Oil is vital to the global economy, and Saudi Arabia has been a key player in shaping the energy landscape for decades. This is one of the main reasons the country’s natural resources are valued at around $34 trillion.

4. Canada: A Goldmine of Oil and Minerals

Canada sits fourth with its own treasure trove of natural wealth, valued at $33 trillion. Like Saudi Arabia, much of this comes from oil, with Canada having some of the largest oil sands reserves in the world. But Canada is not just about oil—it’s also home to huge uranium deposits and vast forests, making it a top producer of lumber.

Canada’s mineral wealth, especially in uranium and other precious metals, plays a huge role in the global economy. This makes Canada a major player in both the energy and mining industries.

5. China: Coal King

China may be known for its manufacturing power, but it also holds one of the largest reserves of coal in the world. As the world’s top producer of coal, China’s natural resources are vital to its energy needs and industrial growth. While China has made great strides in renewable energy, its vast coal reserves are still an essential part of its economy.

Coal has been a cornerstone of China’s rapid industrialization, and it continues to be a major fuel source for the country’s power plants.

6. Brazil and Australia: Metal and Coal Powerhouses

Next up are Brazil and Australia—two countries that are rich in minerals and coal. Brazil, known for its vast reserves of iron ore, is a key producer of this important metal used in steel production. Australia is also a giant in the mining world, with large deposits of iron ore and coal, making it one of the leading exporters of these resources.

Both countries also contribute significantly to the production of gold, with Brazil having substantial gold reserves and Australia being one of the world’s largest gold producers.