US seeks expanded access to Venezuela's mineral resources

Reuters reports that Washington is seeking broader access to Venezuelan resources, including gold and critical minerals. According to the agency, the US is considering options to increase involvement in the country's mining sector and holding meetings with companies regarding potential investments.

Most deposits are located in remote areas and poorly explored. A 2021 government map, based on 2009 data, indicates reserves of copper, nickel, coltan, uranium, and tungsten without volume estimates. Venezuela likely does not have significant reserves of rare earth metals.