U.S. Imports For Consumption Of Cryolite, By Country Or Locality

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of cryolite imported into the United States from various countries and localities for consumption. Cryolite, a rare mineral primarily used in aluminum production as a flux to lower the melting point of alumina, plays a critical role in the U.S. aluminum industry and other industrial applications. Tracking import sources and volumes is essential for understanding supply chain dynamics, assessing market dependencies, and informing trade and industrial policy decisions.

Analysis of the data reveals that total U.S. imports of cryolite increased from 27,800 metric tons valued at $27.5 million in 2022 to 32,300 metric tons worth $36 million in 2023, indicating both higher volume and value. Japan remains the largest supplier by a significant margin, with imports rising sharply from 12,000 to 22,800 metric tons and value increasing from $15.8 million to $27.8 million. Canada, the second-largest source, saw a notable decline in quantity from 10,500 to 6,520 metric tons and a corresponding value drop from $4.3 million to $2.79 million. Other countries such as Denmark and Hungary maintained relatively stable import levels, while new or resumed suppliers like Brazil, Cyprus, and the United Arab Emirates contributed smaller quantities in 2023. The data suggest a diversification of supply sources alongside a growing overall demand for cryolite in the U.S. market.