What Are the International Market Factors Behind the Tungsten Price Surge?

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China accounts for approximately 83% of global tungsten concentrate production (according to 2025 USGS data), with deep processing accounting for an even higher proportion, exceeding 90%, giving it a dominant position in the global tungsten supply chain. The export controls implemented on February 4, 2025, and the tightening supply, forced the global supply chain to reassess its reliance on China's supply chain. As of September 30, 2025, European APT prices had risen to USD 580-650/mtu (RMB 366,000-410,000/ton), an 86.4% year-to-date increase. Due to the extended export approval period and uncertainty in China, overseas purchasing has been disrupted, resulting in a significant reduction in inventories and further exacerbating global market tensions. Although overseas tungsten mine development projects (such as Sangdong in South Korea and Mactung in Canada) are progressing, production is limited and far from sufficient to offset the impact of reduced Chinese supply.

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How Do National Policies Affect Tungsten Prices?

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National policies, combining "domestic mining control and foreign export regulation," have significantly impacted the supply and demand structure of the tungsten market.

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Why Did Tungsten Prices Suddenly Rise in 2025?

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Since March 2025, China's tungsten prices have continued to rise, with a temporary surge in August, reaching a historical peak in early September, and doubling the price of major tungsten products this year.

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What Supply Side Factors are Behind the Surge in Tungsten Prices?

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In 2025, the tungsten supply side saw a significant tightening, primarily driven by policy-driven quota controls and multiple external factors.

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What Are the Main Applications of Tungsten?

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Tungsten is widely used in a variety of fields due to its exceptional hardness, wear resistance, high temperature resistance, corrosion resistance, and high density. Tungsten's uses include:

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