Coal, iron ore and more: how rich is Ukraine in natural resources?

Ukraine has significant natural resources that can support industrial development and economic recovery. Find out what natural resources Ukraine has

More useful news in our Telegram channel

FOLLOW

Ukraine traditionally ranks high in the global ranking of key natural resource reserves, which opens up huge prospects for economic development and international cooperation. According to UA War Infographics, our country has significant volumes of coal, iron ore, manganese ore and other minerals that can play a key role in restoring and modernising its industrial potential.

Coal

Ukraine ranks 8th in the world in terms of coal reserves, with total volumes of around 37.9 billion tonnes. Most of the coal resources are concentrated in Donbas, a region that is currently facing uncertain production prospects. The liberation of Donbas from military conflicts will be the starting point for a large-scale infrastructure rebuilding and rethinking the region's economic potential. The recovery of the coal industry requires not only financial injections but also innovative approaches to mining and processing.

Iron ore

Ukraine ranks 5th in the world in terms of iron ore reserves, with a total weight of about 6.5 billion tonnes. This resource is the cornerstone of ferrous metallurgy and is used to produce steel, pig iron and iron, which in turn are the basis for aircraft, automotive and instrumentation. Ukraine's iron ore wealth underlines its strategic importance for the global metals market and opens up opportunities for attracting investment in the metals industry.

Manganese ore

Ukraine ranks 4th in the world in terms of manganese ore reserves, with estimated reserves of around 140 million tonnes. This resource is second only to Brazil, China and South Africa. Manganese plays an important role in steel production and is also used in glass and ceramics. Ukraine's high position in the manganese resource ranking indicates that it has strategically important reserves that can ensure long-term stability of production in various industries.

Don't want to miss important updates and useful articles? Subscribe to our weekly newsletter!

Economic development prospects

The economic potential associated with the abundance of natural resources creates favourable conditions for the development of the mining sector and industry in general. Efficient use of coal, iron ore and manganese ore can be a key factor in economic recovery after military conflicts and crises. Of particular importance is attracting foreign investment and cooperation with international partners, including US businesses, which can contribute to the modernisation of the extractive industries.

Integration of Ukraine's extractive industry into global production chains can ensure not only economic growth but also strengthening the country's position in the international arena. Efficient use of natural resources requires a comprehensive approach, including infrastructure development, introduction of innovative technologies and sustainable resource management.

We remind you! The United States has suspended external funding under USAID programmes. During the full-scale war, Ukraine is the largest recipient of USAID assistance. We told you how this would affect economic development.

Want to know more? Read the latest news and useful materials about Ukraine and the world in the News section.

We recommend purchasing it for a safe and comfortable trip to Ukraine: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance – insurance covering military risks for entry and travel in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Car Insurance – car insurance with extended coverage in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Legal Advice – comprehensive legal support on entry to Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tickets – bus and train tickets to/from Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Tours – the largest online database of tours to Ukraine for every taste;

Visit Ukraine Hotels – hotels for a comfortable stay in Ukraine;

Visit Ukraine Merch – patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.

© 2018-2025, Visit Ukraine. Use, copying or reprinting of materials on this site is permitted only with a link (hyperlink for online publications) to Visit Ukraine.

All rights reserved.