Top 10 Silver-Producing Countries In The World: Silver is not only the precious metal that we find in jewelry or coins, but it is also the industrial and investment world winner! Silver enters the picture in almost every phase, from electronics and solar power to even jewelry and decorative items.
But were you aware that only a few countries actually rule over this shimmering empire?
The World Silver Survey 2025 and the U.S. Geological Survey report that Mexico, China, and Peru are the leading players, while Argentina and Australia are gradually getting ready for the big stage. Interested to know how these countries are mining, selling, and influencing the whole silver market? Then hang on, let’s dive into the most powerful silver-producing nations in the world!
Top 10 Silver-Producing Countries In The World
1. Mexico – World’s Leading Silver Producer
Production: 202.2 million ounces | World Share: 24%
Mexico has long been the world’s top silver producer, largely thanks to major mines like Peñasquito and Fresnillo. Silver mining forms a crucial part of the country’s mining sector, with both primary and byproduct extraction driving its dominance in global silver output.
2. China – Growing Silver Output
Production: 109.3 million ounces | World Share: 13%
China ranks second in silver production, mainly as a byproduct of lead, zinc, and copper mining. Rapid industrialization and expansion of electronics and solar sectors have fueled domestic demand, making China a critical player in both silver production and consumption globally.
3. Peru – Rich Reserves, Strong Production
Production: 107.1 million ounces | World Share: 13%
Peru is both a top producer and holder of the largest silver reserves globally. Mining hubs in regions like Cerro de Pasco and Puno drive output. Its rich reserves indicate strong future potential, positioning Peru as a key contributor to the global silver market.
4. Chile – Copper Byproduct Leader
Production: 52.0 million ounces | World Share: 6%
Chile produces significant silver primarily as a byproduct of its massive copper mining industry. Mines in regions such as Antofagasta extract silver alongside copper, and the country’s efficient mining technology ensures consistent silver output, maintaining its position among the top global producers.
5. Bolivia – Silver Mining Heritage
Production: 42.6 million ounces | World Share: 5%
Bolivia has a long history of silver mining, especially in the famous Potosí region. While smaller than Mexico and Peru, Bolivia’s rich veins and artisanal mining methods continue to contribute meaningfully to global silver supply, combining traditional techniques with modern mining operations.
6. Poland – European Silver Stronghold
Production: 42.5 million ounces | World Share: 5%
Poland is Europe’s leading silver producer, largely extracted as a byproduct of zinc and lead mining. The country’s mining sector, centered in Upper Silesia, maintains steady output, supplying both domestic industries and international markets, reinforcing Poland’s position in global silver trade.
7. Russia – Expanding Mining Operations
Production: 39.8 million ounces | World Share: 5%
Russia’s silver output comes mainly from Siberian and Ural region mines. With ongoing investments in mining infrastructure, Russia continues to expand production. The silver is both a byproduct of gold and base-metal mining and a strategic mineral for industrial applications in electronics and solar technologies.
8. Australia – Technological Silver Growth
Production: 34.4 million ounces | World Share: 4%
Australia produces silver largely as a byproduct of lead, zinc, and copper mining. Mines like Cannington are globally significant. The country’s mining sector is technologically advanced, focusing on sustainable extraction practices while maintaining strong production levels that contribute to global industrial and investment demand.
9. United States – Historical Silver Mining
Production: 32.0 million ounces | World Share: 4%
The U.S. has a longstanding silver mining history, with major operations in Nevada and Alaska. Silver production is mostly a byproduct of gold and base-metal mining, supporting domestic industries and exports. Modern mining methods have optimized extraction while maintaining environmental standards.
10. Argentina – Emerging Silver Producer
Production: 26.0 million ounces | World Share: 3%
Argentina’s silver mining sector is growing, with significant projects in provinces like Santa Cruz and Jujuy. While output is smaller than top producers, ongoing exploration and investment promise increased future production. Silver is mostly mined alongside gold and lead, contributing to both domestic industry and global supply.
(The article is curated from publicly available information)