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| antimony |
Limited Concentrate Supply Hampers Growth
China’s antimony metal production increased slightly in 2024, reaching 66,534 tons—a modest 0.5% rise from the previous year. However, this output has remained relatively stable since 2021, as the tight supply of antimony concentrate continues to limit production growth. Data from the China Nonferrous Metal Industry Association suggests that domestic resource depletion and import restrictions have constrained expansion, despite steady demand. The ongoing shortage of raw materials reflects broader challenges within China’s nonferrous metal sector.
Declining Antimony Trioxide Production and Market Weakness
Unlike primary antimony metal, the production of antimony trioxide, a key compound in flame retardants, declined by 4.8% in 2024, reaching 91,700 tons. This drop is largely attributed to weakened demand from the flame retardant industry, indicating a contraction in this segment of the antimony market. With reduced consumption in critical applications, antimony trioxide manufacturers may face further slowdowns, affecting the overall demand for raw antimony.
Export Controls and Price Surge Impact 2025 Outlook
Looking ahead, China’s antimony production is expected to remain stable or even decline in 2025. Contributing factors include reduced operational rates among producers, dwindling domestic reserves, and strict import restrictions on antimony concentrate. Additionally, export controls imposed in September 2024 have significantly limited the metal’s availability outside China. As a result, global antimony prices have surged, reaching double the domestic price. This widening price gap may encourage suppliers from Myanmar and Tajikistan to prioritize international markets over Chinese smelters, further restricting concentrate availability and potentially curbing production.
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RAREMETAL
