World's largest silver producing countries

July 21, 2013

Global silver mine production grew last year to 787.0 Moz, primarily due to by-product output from the lead/zinc sector. Primary silver mine supply grew by 1 percent to account for 28 percent of global silver mine output. Mexico was the world’s largest silver producing country in 2012, followed by China, Peru, Australia and Russia. Primary silver mine cash costs rose to $8.88 an ounce, reflecting higher prices for labor, electricity, and maintenance charges.

Top 20 Silver Producing Countries in 2012

(millions of ounces)

1. Mexico 162.2
2. China 117.0
3. Peru 111.3
4. Australia 56.9
5. Russia 45.0
6. Poland 41.2
7. Bolivia 39.7
8. Chile 37.0
9. United States 32.6
10. Argentina 24.1
11. Canada 21.3
12. Kazakhstan 17.5
13. India 12.7
14. Sweden 9.8
15. Turkey 7.6
16. Morocco 7.4
17. Guatemala 6.6
18. Indonesia 4.4
19. Islamic Rep. of Iran 3.2
20. South Africa 2.9

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