Venezuela is one of the world’s most naturally resource-rich countries, especially known for its huge oil reserves, but it also has major gas, mineral, water, and fertile land resources.

Main natural resources

  • Petroleum (crude oil): Venezuela has some of the largest proven oil reserves on the planet, concentrated mainly in the Orinoco Belt and the Maracaibo basin.
  • Natural gas: The country also holds very large natural gas reserves, making hydrocarbons the backbone of its export economy.
  • Coal: There are important coal deposits, especially in the Guasare area in the northwest.

Metals and minerals

  • Iron ore: Large, high‑quality iron ore deposits are found in the Guiana Highlands and support a domestic steel industry.
  • Bauxite: Venezuela has significant bauxite reserves (aluminum ore), also concentrated in the Guiana region.
  • Gold and diamonds: Notable deposits of gold and diamonds exist in the Guiana Highlands and southern interior.
  • Other minerals: There are economically relevant quantities of nickel, phosphates, copper, zinc, lead, manganese, and titanium, plus identified uranium and thorium deposits.

Land, water, and energy

  • Agricultural land: Areas suitable for crops and cattle ranching are an important resource, even though agriculture is a smaller share of the modern economy.
  • Fresh water and rivers: Major river systems (like the Orinoco and Caroní) provide abundant water and support large hydroelectric projects.
  • Hydroelectric potential: The Guri dam on the Caroní River is among the world’s largest hydroelectric facilities by generating capacity.

Other notable resources

  • Forests and biodiversity: Venezuela’s tropical forests and diverse ecosystems are valuable for timber, biodiversity, and environmental services.
  • Non‑metallic resources: Salt and industrial‑grade limestone, along with asphalt and other non‑metallic minerals, also contribute to the resource base.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.