U.S. Exports Of Chromium Materials, By Type

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of various chromium materials exported from the United States, categorized by type. These materials include chromite ore and concentrates, chromium metal in different forms, chromium ferroalloys, chemicals such as chromium sulfates and salts, and pigments and preparations. Tracking these exports is economically and industrially significant because chromium is a critical element used in stainless steel production, aerospace components, and various chemical applications. Understanding export trends helps gauge the health of the domestic chromium industry, informs trade policy decisions, and highlights key international markets for U.S. chromium products.

Analysis of the 2023 data reveals several noteworthy trends compared to 2022. Total exports of chromite ore and concentrates remained relatively stable, with a slight decrease from 2,220 to 2,200 metric tons, while the value increased from $1.64 million to $1.84 million, indicating a possible rise in unit prices or quality. Canada and Mexico were the top destinations for chromite ore, receiving nearly equal quantities of about 905 metric tons each. Chromium metal exports declined in quantity from 567 to 449 metric tons but increased in value from $12.8 million to $13.6 million, driven largely by a 60% rise in exports of chromium metal other than unwrought forms, which grew from 75 to 120 metric tons and nearly doubled in value from $3.21 million to $6.17 million. High-carbon ferrochromium exports showed a significant increase in quantity from 2,940 to 4,100 metric tons and in value from $2.75 million to $3.89 million, with Canada again the principal destination. Conversely, low-carbon ferrochromium exports decreased sharply from 637 to 344 metric tons. Total chromium ferroalloy exports rose from 3,610 to 4,530 metric tons, with a value increase from $3.8 million to $4.54 million. Chemical chromium salts exports decreased in quantity from 660 to 443 metric tons but increased in value from $2.86 million to $3.3 million, suggesting higher prices or product quality. Pigments and preparations exports dropped significantly in quantity from 1,220 to 396 metric tons but saw a slight value increase to $4.17 million, indicating a shift toward higher-value products. Overall, Canada and Mexico consistently appear as primary markets across most chromium material categories in 2023.