HS Code:
Niobium oxide (HS Code: 282590) is a chemical compound primarily used in the production of niobium metal, ferro-niobium, and various alloys. It is a critical material in industries such as aerospace, electronics, and steel manufacturing due to its properties like high melting point and resistance to corrosion. Niobium oxide is often derived from minerals like columbite and pyrochlore and plays a significant role in advanced technology applications, including superconductors and capacitors.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $1.2 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database & International Trade Centre (ITC)
$650 million USD
54.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$300 million USD
25.0% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$100 million USD
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$80 million USD
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$50 million USD
4.2% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (imposed by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA and EU trade pacts)
Growing demand in electronics and renewable energy sectors
Increased demand for niobium oxide in capacitors and superconducting materials for energy storage systems
2021-2023
Rising investment in niobium mining
Expansion of production capacity in Brazil and Canada to meet global demand
2020-2022
Shift toward sustainable sourcing
Pressure on suppliers to adopt environmentally friendly extraction methods, influencing cost structures
2022-2023
Brazil, the largest producer of niobium oxide, announced new investments in mining infrastructure to boost production by 15% over the next five years.
March 2023
Expected to stabilize global supply and potentially lower prices in the short term.
The United States included niobium oxide in its critical materials list, leading to stockpiling efforts and incentives for domestic processing.
June 2022
Increased demand for imports from allied countries like Brazil and Canada.
The European Union's Green Deal initiatives have introduced stricter environmental standards for niobium oxide imports, focusing on sustainable mining practices.
January 2023
Potential trade barriers for non-compliant exporters, while benefiting certified sustainable producers.