Most of the graphite occurs in metamorphic rocks as a result of metamorphism. However, it can also be found in igneous rocks and in meteorites. Almost every country has graphite reserves in abundance. In Ceylon, the USA and Mexico, the mineral is obtained by underground mining.
It is also obtained by hydraulic method in some countries like Malagasy Republic.
The World Map of graphite producers shows a list of a dozen countries holding the key position in graphite production. As shown in the map, China is the largest producer of graphite in the world; in 2015 the country produced 800 thousand metric tonnes of graphite.
China is followed by India producing 170 thousand metric tonnes of graphite. The third place is occupied by Brazil followed by North Korea, Canada, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, Madagascar, Mexico, and Norway.
Country | Mine Production (2014) |
China | 780 |
India | 170 |
Brazil | 80 |
Canada | 30 |
North Korea | 30 |
Turkey | 30 |
Russia | 14 |
Mexico | 8 |
Ukraine | 6 |
Zimbabwe | 6 |
Madagascar | 5 |
Sri Lanka | 4 |
Norway | 2 |
Other Countries | 1 |
Source: http://minerals.usgs.gov/minerals/pubs/mcs/2015/mcs2015.pdf
Last updated On : May 19, 2015
World Mineral Producer |