Korea Zinc Inc. is set to begin antimony exports to the United States this year, marking South Korea’s entry into a market dominated by Chinese suppliers of the strategic metal used in defense and battery manufacturing.
The company plans to ship 350 tons of antimony to the US in 2024, securing government approval for the export of the controlled substance. While the volume represents just 0.02% of America’s annual 14,000-ton imports, it signals South Korea’s push to position itself as an alternative supplier in the critical minerals supply chain.
The move comes as the US seeks to reduce its reliance on Chinese antimony, which currently accounts for 62% of its imports. China controls about half of global antimony production, mining 86,400 tons last year, and maintains a 48% market share in high-purity antimony processing.
The metal, essential for infrared radars, missiles, and armor-piercing ammunition, has seen dramatic price increases. Trading data from Rotterdam shows antimony prices surged 268% from $11,000 per ton in early 2023 to $45,000 by year-end.
The deal aligns with broader US efforts to secure supply chains for strategic materials outside of China’s sphere of influence.
