U.S. Imports Of Molybdenum Ore And Concentrates (Including Roasted And Unroasted Concentrates), By Country Or Locality

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of molybdenum ore and concentrates imported into the United States, broken down by country or locality. It includes both roasted and unroasted concentrates, measured in metric tons of molybdenum content, alongside their corresponding import values in thousands of dollars. This information is crucial for understanding the supply chain dynamics of molybdenum, a metal widely used in steel alloys, electronics, and industrial catalysts. Tracking import sources and volumes helps assess the U.S. market’s dependency on foreign producers, informs trade policy decisions, and supports strategic planning for industries reliant on this critical mineral.

Analysis of the data reveals that total U.S. imports of molybdenum ore and concentrates increased from 15,700 metric tons in 2022 to 16,200 metric tons in 2023, while the total import value rose significantly from $585 million to $821 million. Peru remains the dominant supplier, with imports growing from 11,000 to 11,700 metric tons and their value surging from $409 million to $581 million, underscoring its critical role in the U.S. molybdenum supply. Chile and Mexico also maintained substantial export volumes, with Chile’s quantity increasing from 1,820 to 2,020 metric tons and value jumping from $69.2 million to $111 million, while Mexico’s imports held steady around 2,000 metric tons but saw a value increase from $72.2 million to $106 million. Notably, imports from Canada decreased sharply in quantity from 720 to 401 metric tons and in value from $26.3 million to $21.1 million. Emerging suppliers such as Italy, Korea, Taiwan, and the Netherlands appeared in 2023 with small but notable import volumes and values, reflecting a modest diversification of sourcing. Overall, the data indicate a growing U.S. reliance on South American producers, particularly Peru and Chile, alongside increasing import values that may reflect market price changes or shifts in concentrate quality.