Antimony shortage threatens ammo supply amid 300% price surge

Bullet metal faces shortage after 300% price surge

A global antimony shortage threatens ammunition supplies as the US and Europe replenish stockpiles after aiding Ukraine. Prices have surged nearly 300% due to China’s export restrictions, driving demand for new Western sources like Australia’s upcoming Larvotto mine.

Bullet metal faces shortage after 300% price surge

A global antimony shortage—key for munitions—could worsen as the US and Europe restock after supplying Ukraine. Prices have surged nearly fourfold as China tightened exports, fueling supply concerns.

 

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Australia’s Larvotto Resources plans to open a mine next year, one of the few Western sources in an industry dominated by China and Russia. Antimony-lead alloys are essential for bullets, explosives, and shrapnel, but with aging stockpiles depleted, demand is rising.

While antimony is mainly used in flame retardants and batteries, global production falls short of demand. China, Russia, and Tajikistan control 87% of supply. The US and allies are now scrambling for alternatives, with new mining projects underway in Australia and Idaho.

 

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