Cuba

In 2024, Cuba was estimated to be the world’s 5th-ranked producer of cobalt, accounting for 1.1% of global production; and 10th-ranked producer of zeolites, accounting for 1.2% of global production. Other mineral commodities produced in the country included bentonite, cement, feldspar, gypsum, kaolin, lead, lime, marble, nickel, salt, raw steel, sulfuric acid, and zinc. The mining and quarrying sector represented only a minor part of the economy of Cuba contributing about 1.0% to Cuba’s gross domestic product.  

The legislative framework for the mineral sector in Cuba is provided by Ley de Minas [Mining law] (law No. 76 of 1994). The Ministerio de Energía y Minas [Ministry of Energy and Mines] oversees the mineral sector and is responsible for establishing Government policies for the energy and mining sectors. Most mineral commodities were produced by Government-owned companies and joint ventures with the Government.