U.S. Foreign Trade In Thorium And Thorium-Bearing Materials

This table provides detailed data on the quantities and values of thorium and thorium-bearing materials traded between the United States and foreign countries. It includes both exports and imports, broken down by specific countries and material types such as thorium ore, monazite concentrate, and thorium compounds. This information is critical for understanding the economic and industrial dynamics of thorium, a strategic element used in nuclear energy, advanced materials, and various high-tech applications. Tracking these trade flows helps policymakers and industry stakeholders monitor supply chain dependencies, market trends, and potential shifts in global demand or production.

Analysis of the data reveals notable changes between 2022 and 2023. U.S. exports of thorium ore and monazite concentrate to Mexico ceased entirely in 2023, dropping from 22 metric tons valued at $24,600 in 2022 to zero. However, exports of thorium compounds increased significantly in quantity from 26 metric tons in 2022 to 65 metric tons in 2023, though the total export value decreased slightly from $1.81 million to $1.62 million. China emerged as the largest recipient by quantity in 2023, receiving 57 metric tons of thorium compounds valued at $266,000, a substantial increase from negligible quantities the previous year. Conversely, countries like Brazil and Chile saw declines or cessation in exports. On the import side, the U.S. saw a dramatic rise in thorium compound imports from India, jumping from zero in 2022 to 12 metric tons valued at $885,000 in 2023, making India the dominant supplier. Total imports increased from 2 metric tons valued at $56,800 in 2022 to 13 metric tons valued at $928,000 in 2023, indicating growing domestic demand or supply diversification efforts.