Salient Diatomite Statistics

This table presents key quantitative and economic data on diatomite production, usage, trade, and consumption in the United States, alongside global production figures. It provides annual statistics on quantities sold or used by U.S. producers, export and import volumes, apparent consumption, and the free-on-board value of diatomite. This information is crucial for understanding the market dynamics and economic significance of diatomite, a mineral widely used in filtration, absorbents, and as a filler in various industrial applications. Tracking these metrics helps stakeholders assess supply-demand balance, trade flows, and the overall health of the diatomite industry.

Analysis of the data reveals that U.S. diatomite production experienced fluctuations over the five-year period from 2020 to 2024. After peaking at 998 thousand metric tons in 2021, production declined to 721 thousand metric tons by 2024, representing a notable decrease of approximately 28% from the 2021 high. Despite this drop in quantity, the value of diatomite sold or used in the U.S. remained relatively high, reaching $493 million in 2023 before falling to $415 million in 2024. Exports showed some variability but remained modest, ranging between 54 and 69 thousand metric tons annually, while imports stayed steady around 12 to 14 thousand metric tons. Apparent consumption mirrored production trends, peaking at 943 thousand metric tons in 2021 and declining to 671 thousand metric tons in 2024. Globally, diatomite production also decreased from a revised 3 million metric tons in 2021 to 2.53 million metric tons in 2024, indicating a broader contraction in the market.