U.S. Imports For Consumption Of Fluorspar, By Country Or Locality And Customs District

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of fluorspar imported into the United States for consumption, broken down by country or locality and customs district. Fluorspar, a mineral composed primarily of calcium fluoride, is essential for various industrial applications including the manufacture of hydrofluoric acid, aluminum production, and steelmaking. Tracking import volumes and values by source and entry point provides critical insight into supply chain dynamics, trade dependencies, and market trends, which are vital for economic planning and ensuring the stability of industries reliant on this mineral.

Analysis of the data reveals a notable decline in total fluorspar imports from 532,000 metric tons valued at $191 million in 2022 to 412,000 metric tons worth $173 million in 2023. Mexico remains the dominant supplier, maintaining a steady volume of 240,000 metric tons but with an increased value from $87 million to $105 million, indicating higher prices or shifts in product mix. Imports from China, however, dropped sharply by more than half in quantity, from 103,000 to 29,900 metric tons, and in value from $52.6 million to $14 million, reflecting a significant reduction in supply from this source. South Africa showed a substantial increase in acid-grade fluorspar imports, rising from 34,200 to 51,700 metric tons, with value doubling to $23.4 million, suggesting a growing role in the U.S. market. Additionally, Spain emerged as a new notable supplier in 2023 with 9,030 metric tons valued at $4.79 million, whereas imports from Japan and Hong Kong declined markedly. These shifts highlight evolving global trade patterns and the U.S. industry’s adaptation to changing international supply conditions.