Russia, Canada, and China: The giants of the world’s landmass
Russia, Canada, and China continue to dominate the rankings of the world’s largest countries by land area.
Russia covers an astounding 17.10 million square kilometres. According to the World Atlas, Russia’s vast territory stretches across Europe and Asia, encompassing 11 time zones. This immense landmass includes a mix of tundra, taiga, mountains, and volcanic ridges. Notably, Russia boasts the world’s largest forest carbon reserve, a key player in climate regulation.
In second place is Canada, spanning 9.98 million square kilometres. Its landscape is marked by expansive boreal forests, the rugged Rocky Mountains, and the Arctic tundra. According to World Atlas, Canada’s unique position at the top of North America also means it has the world’s longest coastline and abundant freshwater resources—a vital asset in a world facing water scarcity.
China, at 9.60 million square kilometres, follows closely. As highlighted by Britannica, China’s territory encompasses deserts like the Gobi, vast river systems such as the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers, and mountain ranges like the Himalayas. This geographical diversity underpins its agricultural wealth, strategic trade routes, and ecological importance.
Rounding out the top five are the United States (9.52 million sq. km) and Brazil (8.51 million sq. km). The US’s varied landscapes—from Alaska’s glaciers to the deserts of Nevada—showcase its environmental diversity. Brazil, meanwhile, is famed for the Amazon Rainforest, the world’s largest tropical rainforest, which is critical to global carbon cycling and biodiversity.
The top ten also include:
- Australia (7.69 million sq. km)
- India (3.29 million sq. km)
- Argentina (2.78 million sq. km)
- Kazakhstan (2.72 million sq. km)
- Algeria (2.38 million sq. km)
