Salient U.S. Iron Oxide Pigments Statistics

This table presents key statistics on the production, trade, and consumption of iron oxide pigments in the United States, including quantities and values of crude and finished pigments sold or used, as well as export and import data. These pigments are critical raw materials widely used in industries such as coatings, construction, plastics, and cosmetics, where they provide color and durability. Tracking this data helps assess domestic supply and demand dynamics, trade balance, and the overall health of the pigment market, which in turn influences manufacturing costs and competitiveness in related sectors.

Analysis of the data reveals notable fluctuations in recent years. Finished pigment quantities sold or used peaked at 38,200 metric tons in 2022, a substantial increase from 19,200 metric tons in 2019, before declining to 25,100 metric tons in 2023. Correspondingly, the value of finished pigments surged to $73.4 million in 2022, more than five times the 2019 value of $13.2 million, before falling to $51.1 million in 2023. Imports for consumption showed a sharp decline in 2023 to 114,000 metric tons from a high of 225,000 metric tons in 2022, with import values dropping from $346 million to $156 million. Exports remained relatively stable, with quantities around 13,100 metric tons and values near $27.6 million in 2023. Globally, iron oxide pigment production has steadily increased from 3.85 million metric tons in 2019 to 3.6 million metric tons in 2023, indicating sustained worldwide demand despite domestic market volatility.