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China’s export controls on Antimony
Context
China will impose export controls on some antimony products (including ore, ingots and oxide), citing national security, adding to measures imposed by Beijing since last year to curb shipments of strategic minerals.
What is Antimony?
- Antimony is a shiny grey metalloid with a variety of industrial uses. It has been known since ancient times and was historically used in medicine and cosmetics.
- Applications:
- Flame Retardants: Antimony is predominantly used in flame retardants, accounting for around half of its global usage in 2023. These retardants are crucial in preventing or slowing the spread of fire in materials such as textiles and plastics.
- Photovoltaic Glass: About 20% of antimony is used to make photovoltaic glass, which enhances the efficiency of solar cells.
- Lead-Acid Batteries: Antimony is used in the manufacturing of lead-acid batteries, contributing to their performance and longevity.
- Military Equipment: Antimony is used in various military applications, including infrared missiles, nuclear weapons, night vision goggles, and as a hardening agent for bullets and tanks.
- Global Production:
- China: Dominates the production of antimony, accounting for 48% of global mine production in 2023 and is the largest producer of processed antimony products, including antimony trioxide (ATO).
- Tajikistan: The second-largest producer, contributing 25% to global production.
- National Security: Antimony's use in military equipment and its role as a critical material in various advanced technologies have made it increasingly strategic.
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