Such a decision will particularly affect solar panel manufacturers, who meet a significant portion of their antimony needs through Chinese exports.

How will it affect global markets?

China controls 48% of the world’s antimony supplywas exported last year 83,000 tons of this material.Impending export restrictions could cause disruptions and higher prices for foreign manufacturers.

Antimony is vital not only in solar energy, but also in the production of lead-acid batteries and refractory materials. Its importance also extends to defense, where it is used. in the components of nuclear weaponsthermal homing missiles, night vision devices and armored metal alloys.

What can it be replaced with?

Although there are alternative suppliers such as Tajikistan, Myanmar and Turkey, they have a much smaller share of the market, with Tajikistan being the largest supplier last year. 21,000 tons.

The expected deficit is likely to be higher due to China’s restrictions Antimony prices increaseGlobal buyers will look to secure their supplies.