Antimony Crisis: Challenges & Opportunities for EVs

The EV industry is sounding the alarm over the supply of critical metals, with antimony taking centre stage.

Antimony is an essential element widely used in EV batteries and flame-retardant materials and has become a hot topic due to skyrocketing prices and recent export restrictions imposed by China.

Antimony's role and rising prices

Antimony is indispensable in EV batteries and automotive flame-retardant materials. However, the metal's price has increased by a staggering 200% this year alone.

The surge has been a boon for companies in the antimony space, with some seeing their stock prices climb by more than 800%.

China's dominance in the antimony market adds complexity to the situation. According to one industry expert, "China, which currently controls nearly half of the total global output of this metal and the lion's share of its refined end-product, has recently upset Washington by restricting antimony exports to the United States."

This supply constraint poses a significant challenge to the EV industry, potentially driving up production costs and slowing growth.

Emerging solutions to antimony supply challenges

New players are plugging the gap in response to China's export restrictions.

Military Metals Corp is one of those positioning itself as a critical supplier of antimony, with acquisitions across North America and Europe. Strategic investments have included the Slovakian Trojarova deposit, known for its significant historical antimony resources.

Industry observers see these acquisitions as a critical step in addressing the growing need for reliable antimony supplies.

While initially noted for its relevance to defence industries, the importance of such secure resources extends to the EV sector, where stable access to critical metals like antimony is vital for production and supply chain resilience.

Diversifying supply chains

Military Metals' efforts are a wake-up call for EV manufacturers to diversify their supply chains.

Reducing reliance on China's antimony production could be crucial for ensuring market stability.

Other companies in the critical metals and resource sectors are monitoring the developments closely. Firms like United States Steel, SQM, Vale S.A., Piedmont Lithium and Uranium Energy Corp may need to adjust their strategies to stay competitive amid the shifting dynamics in the metals market.

A turning point for the EV industry

As the EV revolution continues to gain momentum, securing a stable supply of critical metals like antimony is becoming increasingly urgent. The soaring demand highlights the importance of diversifying supply chains and fostering competition within the market.

Recent developments in the antimony market point to opportunities for new entrants in the mining sector. Companies like Military Metals are not only addressing the immediate supply issues but setting the stage for a more resilient EV industry.

In an era where the demand for sustainable and innovative transportation solutions is surging, ensuring access to critical metals like antimony will be pivotal in shaping the future of EVs.

Explore the latest edition of EV Magazine and be part of the conversation at our global conference series, Sustainability LIVE and  Manufacturing LIVE.

Discover all our upcoming events and secure your tickets today.

EV Magazine is a BizClik brand.