Campine Prepares for Impact of New Chinese Antimony Restrictions
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Campine's Strategic Positioning Against New Chinese Restrictions
Campine is well positioned to tackle new Chinese restrictions, which will impact global antimony markets.
Understanding the Export Restrictions
Recently, China announced export restrictions on a range of antimony substances, including antimony ore, metal, and oxides. As one of the largest consumers of antimony, Campine does not anticipate supply issues in the short term.
Internal Sourcing and Recycling Initiatives
Hans Vercammen, Campine’s Specialty Chemicals division director, noted that the company has reduced its antimony metal sourcing from China to below 5% and is partly supplied internally through antimony recycling. With an annual consumption of 10 to 12 thousand tonnes, Campine is the largest consumer of this metal outside of China.
Innovative Antimony Recycling Processes
For several years, Campine has established itself as a pioneer in antimony recycling. Currently, approximately 15% of its total antimony requirements are generated through its proprietary recovery processes. CEO De Vos explained that the company is developing the third generation of antimony recycling, aiming to meet 50% of its needs, which is increasingly viable given the current prices that have doubled.
Market Implications and Future Outlook
Campine is closely monitoring the details of China's decision and expects some short-term price spikes. The company is poised to continue serving all markets, potentially increasing supply to regions such as the USA and Japan, which heavily rely on Chinese products. Notably, market share statistics reveal a decrease in the market share of Chinese antimony oxide suppliers in the USA.
Critical Material Classification
Both the European Union and the U.S. have classified antimony as a critical material under their respective Critical Raw Materials Acts. Campine hopes that European legislators will promote and support innovative antimony recycling initiatives to secure future availability.
Application of Antimony Compounds
Antimony trioxide from Campine is utilized in flame retardants, pigments, PET polymers, and in lead-alloys for car and energy storage batteries.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the new Chinese restrictions on antimony?
China has imposed export restrictions on various antimony substances, including ore, metal, and oxides.
How does Campine source its antimony?
Campine sources less than 5% of its antimony metal from China and recycles a significant portion internally.
What is Campine's annual consumption of antimony?
Campine consumes between 10,000 to 12,000 tonnes of antimony annually, making it the largest consumer outside China.
How is Campine addressing the restrictions?
Campine is enhancing its recycling processes and monitoring market conditions to mitigate supply chain impacts.
What industries utilize Campine's antimony products?
Campine's antimony products are used in flame retardants, pigments, and battery components.
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