Tm

Thulium

Projects

Major Thulium Projects Worldwide

The development pipeline for Thulium projects spans exploration through production across multiple jurisdictions. These projects that will shape the future supply landscape for this rare earth element.

Current Production

3

tonnes

Top Producer

China

95% share

Projects Tracked

0

Reserves

Part of total REE reserves (very scarce)

Government Support and Strategic Initiatives

Recognizing the strategic importance of Thulium, governments in major consuming nations have launched programs to support project development. These include direct financing, loan guarantees, streamlined permitting, and bilateral resource partnerships. As a USGS-listed critical mineral, Thulium projects are eligible for various U.S. government support mechanisms including the Defense Production Act Title III program. EU Critical Raw Materials Act provisions enable fast-track permitting and financing support for Thulium projects within the EU and partner nations.

Key Industry Developments

Recent developments affecting the Thulium project landscape:

2020

Thulium fiber laser technology advanced for defense applications including directed infrared countermeasures (DIRCM) and eye-safe laser rangefinders

2024

Growing interest in 2-micron laser technology for atmospheric CO2 monitoring and wind LIDAR supported niche thulium demand

Return to the Thulium hub page or browse the full Mineral Library.