HS Code:
Fluorspar, also known as fluorite, is a critical industrial mineral composed of calcium fluoride (CaF2). It is primarily used in the production of hydrofluoric acid, which is a precursor to numerous industrial chemicals, including refrigerants and fluoropolymers. Fluorspar is also used as a flux in steelmaking and aluminum smelting, and in the production of glass and ceramics. Classified under HS Code 2529, it is traded in various grades, including acid-grade (97%+ CaF2) and metallurgical-grade (60-85% CaF2). Global trade in fluorspar is influenced by industrial demand, mining output, and environmental regulations.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 7 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database, USGS Mineral Commodity Summaries
4.5 million metric tons
64% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
1.2 million metric tons
17% of global trade of total trade
Stable
0.5 million metric tons
7% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
0.3 million metric tons
4% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
0.2 million metric tons
3% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing economies)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Rising demand for acid-grade fluorspar
Increased production of hydrofluoric acid for refrigerants and lithium-ion battery chemicals is driving demand, particularly in Asia-Pacific.
2021-2023
Supply constraints due to environmental regulations
Stricter mining regulations in China have reduced output, leading to price volatility and a shift in supply chains to other countries like Mexico.
2020-2022
Growing interest in alternative sources
Exploration and development of fluorspar mines in regions like North America and Europe to reduce dependency on Chinese exports.
2022-2023
China reduced its fluorspar export quota by 10% to prioritize domestic industrial needs and environmental conservation.
January 2023
Global prices spiked by 15%, prompting importers to seek alternative suppliers.
A major mining company announced the development of a new fluorspar mine in Newfoundland, Canada, expected to produce 200,000 tons annually by 2025.
March 2023
This could diversify global supply and reduce reliance on traditional exporters.
The European Union classified fluorspar as a critical raw material, introducing policies to secure supply chains and encourage recycling.
September 2023
Increased investment in domestic production and trade agreements with fluorspar-rich countries.