Thailand sits on US$1.20 quadrillion worth of rare minerals

- The Nation File Photo

BANGKOK: Thailand has up to 40 types of mineral resources spread across some 60 million rai (9.6 million hectares) and is worth about 44.41 quadrillion baht (US$1.20 quadrillion) if exploited, the Mineral Resources Department chief said.

Pichit Sombatmak, the department’s director-general, said the 30 trillion tonnes or so of minerals to be found in 19% of the country could serve as resources to kick off new industries.