- Global antimony prices witnessed fluctuations in Q2’26, with weaker industrial demand offsetting supply constraints and strategic stock concerns.
- Feedstock availability remained influenced by mining restrictions, production cuts and changing import flows from major producing regions.
- Downstream demand from flame retardants, photovoltaics and industrial applications remained uneven, limiting sustained price recovery.
Asia
Antimony prices in China declined to ~RMB 163.22/kg and ~RMB 155.34/kg, respectively, in the first two months of Q2’26, showing a ~4.8% decrease during the said period. The market remained under pressure as weak demand from flame-retardant and photovoltaic glass producers outweighed restricted mine supply and smelter production cuts. Domestic antimony output declined as mines faced environmental inspections, safety controls and operational restrictions, while smelters reduced production due to weak margins. However, higher ore imports improved raw material availability, as increased inflows of antimony ores and concentrates into China supported smelter operations during the quarter. Antimony oxide exports also weakened in the second half of the quarter, reflecting lower overseas purchasing activity.
Europe
Antimony prices in Europe remained under pressure as supply concerns from reduced Chinese exports were balanced by weak downstream demand. Lower Chinese antimony oxide shipments increased supply uncertainty for European flame-retardant producers, but cautious buying limited market support. Chemical industry weakness affected consumption, with lower production activity and reduced trade flows limiting demand for antimony-based additives. Automotive demand provided some support through increased vehicle registrations, supporting applications in electronic components, flame-retardant plastics and battery-related materials. However, broader industrial and consumer-goods demand remained weak, restricting stronger price movement.
North America
Antimony prices in the United States declined to ~USD 23,993.54/MT in April and ~USD 23,077.79/MT in May, showing a ~3.8% decrease. The market remained supported by supply concerns and strategic demand, but weaker global demand limited further gains. Meanwhile, United States Antimony Corporation restarted mining operations at Stibnite Hill in Montana and began commissioning its Thompson Falls smelter during Q2, improving the supply conditions domestically. Defence demand provided additional support through a U.S. government order for antimony metal ingots. Solar installations and continued demand for flame-retardant materials also supported consumption, although cautious downstream purchasing limited market strength.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, Near-term antimony prices are expected to remain influenced by supply security concerns, export availability and defence-related demand, while weak industrial consumption may restrict significant increases.