U.S. Exports Of Nickel Products, By Class

This table presents detailed data on the quantities and values of various nickel products exported from the United States, categorized by product class and form. It includes primary nickel products such as unwrought forms and chemicals, secondary materials like stainless-steel scrap and waste, as well as wrought and alloyed nickel articles. This information is crucial for understanding the role of nickel exports in the U.S. economy, as nickel is a key metal used in stainless steel production, batteries, and various industrial applications. Tracking these exports helps gauge domestic production capacity, international demand, and the health of industries reliant on nickel, which in turn influences trade balances and economic planning.

Analysis of the 2023 data reveals several notable trends compared to 2022. Total exports of nickel products increased from 55,400 to 69,000 metric tons of nickel content, with the overall value rising from $1.17 billion to $1.23 billion. Primary unwrought nickel powder and flakes saw a significant rise in quantity, from 1,620 to 2,120 metric tons, and value increased from $83.3 million to $105 million. Ferronickel exports also grew substantially by 40%, reaching 239 metric tons valued at $6.51 million. In contrast, exports of catalysts declined from 6,370 to 5,570 metric tons, with a corresponding value drop from $529 million to $449 million. Secondary nickel exports, particularly stainless-steel scrap, increased markedly by nearly 28%, reaching 38,800 metric tons valued at $466 million. Alloyed unwrought products experienced growth as well, with total quantities rising from 47,400 to 53,800 metric tons and values jumping from $2.5 billion to $3.25 billion, highlighting strong demand for higher-value nickel alloys. These shifts indicate a dynamic export market with growing emphasis on higher-grade and secondary nickel materials.