From Yahoo Finance: 2025-06-17 17:11:00

China’s restrictions on antimony exports are causing a global supply shortage, with prices soaring to over $60,000 per metric ton. U.S. companies are struggling to secure antimony supply, resorting to a “grey market” with exorbitant prices. The crisis has not yet led to production cuts, but could impact profits and national security.

Lead-acid batteries, essential for vehicles and various industries, heavily rely on antimony. The mineral is also crucial for military equipment. While non-Chinese demand for antimony can be met outside China, competition with Chinese purchasers and limited Western market supply are causing shortages and price hikes.

In response to the antimony crisis, some companies are exploring options to build processing plants in the U.S. and Australia. Policymakers are urged to address the issue as a national security concern, emphasizing the need for domestic processing capacity, recycling, and mineral alliances to prevent future crises.

Read more: Analysis-Battery makers sweat as antimony shortage hits after China’s export curbs