China’s Fluorspar Trade Trends: Rising Imports, Stable Exports

China, the world’s second-largest holder of fluorspar reserves, continues to play a pivotal role in global supply and demand. By the end of 2023, China’s fluorspar reserves reached approximately 106.9 million tons, reflecting steady growth in resource estimates.

As both the largest producer and consumer of fluorspar worldwide, China has shifted its trade dynamics in recent years. Since 2018, China has transitioned from being a net exporter to a net importer of fluorspar, with inbound shipments expanding significantly.

Import and Export Trends (2018–2024)

Customs data highlight a consistent increase in fluorspar imports, particularly for products with lower CaF₂ content (≤97%). Exports, meanwhile, have remained relatively stable, though fluctuating slightly year by year.

2025 Year-to-Date (January–July) Data

CaF₂ ≤97% Products:

Imports: 944,600 tons, up from 690,800 tons in the same period of 2024.

Exports: 105,400 tons, down slightly from 112,400 tons in 2024.

CaF₂ >97% Products:

Imports: 49,100 tons, compared with only 8,000 tons a year earlier.

Exports: 52,400 tons, up sharply from 28,300 tons in 2024.

Market Implications

The rising reliance on imports underscores the tightening balance between domestic supply constraints and growing demand in downstream industries such as hydrofluoric acid, refrigerants, new energy materials, and semiconductors. While export volumes remain relatively stable, the surge in high-purity fluorspar imports highlights China’s strategic adjustment to secure raw materials for high-end applications.

Looking ahead, fluorspar’s role as a critical mineral for both traditional chemical sectors and emerging industries suggests China will continue to expand its import channels, while keeping a balanced export strategy to serve global markets.