![]() |
This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of worked mica imported into the United States, categorized by country or locality and differentiated between plates and sheets versus other forms. This information is crucial for understanding the supply chain dynamics of mica, a mineral widely used in industries such as electronics, automotive, construction, and cosmetics due to its insulating and heat-resistant properties. Tracking import sources and volumes helps policymakers and businesses assess market dependencies, price fluctuations, and potential supply risks, thereby supporting strategic planning and trade policy decisions.
In 2023, total imports of plates and sheets increased significantly to 2,430 metric tons, valued at $24 million, compared to 1,490 metric tons and $14.8 million in 2022, indicating a robust growth in demand or supply availability. China remains the dominant supplier, exporting 1,860 metric tons of plates and sheets valued at $14.4 million and 1,580 metric tons of other worked mica valued at $8.27 million. Notably, imports from Austria and Belgium also contribute substantially, with Austria supplying 53 metric tons of plates and sheets valued at $1.32 million and 85 metric tons of other mica worth $2.16 million. The data reveals a diversification in sourcing, with countries like Brazil, India, and the United Kingdom providing smaller but significant quantities. Overall, the combined value of imports for plates and sheets and other forms reached $42.5 million in 2023, underscoring the economic importance of mica imports to the U.S. industrial sector.
| TABLE 9 | ||||||||
| U.S. IMPORTS FOR CONSUMPTION OF WORKED MICA, BY COUNTRY OR LOCALITY1 | ||||||||
| Plates, sheets | Other | |||||||
| Quantity | Value | Quantity | Value | |||||
| Country or locality | (metric tons) | (thousands) | (metric tons) | (thousands) | ||||
| 2022 | 1490 | 14800 | 2700 | 18800 | ||||
| 2023: | ||||||||
| Austria | 53 | 1320 | 85 | 2160 | ||||
| Belgium | 17 | 1950 | (2) | 27 | ||||
| Brazil | 156 | 1180 | (2) | 2 | ||||
| China | 1860 | 14400 | 1580 | 8270 | ||||
| Czechia | 59 | 1010 | (2) | 46 | ||||
| France | (2) | 26 | (2) | 15 | ||||
| India | 70 | 1300 | 50 | 1540 | ||||
| Japan | 19 | 365 | (2) | 20 | ||||
| United Kingdom | 27 | 770 | 30 | 1990 | ||||
| Vietnam | 25 | 382 | 84 | 264 | ||||
| Other | 141 | 1270 | 95 | 4130 | ||||
| Total | 2430 | 24000 | 1870 | 18500 | ||||
1Table includes data available through July 10, 2024. Data are rounded to no more than three significant digits; may not add to totals shown.
2Less than ½ unit.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau.
Source: United States Geological Survey Mineral Resources Program
See also: Mica statistics | Mineral commodity prices