Thailand has significant potential in Rare Earth Elements (REEs), which are essential raw materials for advanced technology and clean energy industries. There are 17 rare earth elements in total, comprising 15 lanthanides, along with scandium and yttrium. Meanwhile, Critical Minerals include resources that are vital to modern economies and technologies, such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, copper, tin, and tungsten.
Geological studies indicate that Thailand has three main types of rare earth deposits: primary deposits found in igneous rocks and granite; placer and heavy mineral deposits, which are often associated with tin deposits; and ion-adsorption clay deposits formed through the weathering of granite. Key rare-earth-bearing minerals found in these deposits include monazite, xenotime, and allanite.
This potential could provide Thailand with opportunities to develop industries related to advanced technology and the future economy. However, further exploration and assessment are still needed to determine the quantity, quality, and economic potential of these resources, as well as to establish appropriate and sustainable resource management practices.
Rare earth elements are more than just resources beneath Thailand’s soil—they could become a strategic asset for strengthening the country’s economy, technological capabilities, and competitiveness in the future.
Cr. Sci Chula