US tungsten exports to Japan grow following China's restrictions

2026-06-11

US tungsten scrap exports to Japan have increased significantly in recent months. This growth comes at a time of changes in the global market, shortly after China, which is the world's largest producer of this metal, applied new trade restrictions.

Tungsten is considered an essential industrial metal due to its extreme hardness and high heat resistance. Because of these unique characteristics, it is fundamental for the manufacture of industrial cutting tools, high-tech electronic components, and equipment for the defense sector.

With the new limitations imposed by China, scrap recycling has become an increasingly important source for the industry. Japan, which has a very advanced technological sector, is seeking secure alternatives to ensure the supply of materials needed for its factories without relying solely on Chinese production.

China currently controls most of the global supply of raw tungsten. Recent restrictions by the Chinese government aim to protect the country's natural resources and strengthen its own domestic industry. This has forced nations like the United States and Japan to collaborate more intensely in the trade of recycled materials.

Industry experts believe that this trend of cooperation is likely to continue in the future. The search for critical minerals outside China's zone of influence has become a strategic priority for many developed economies. Thus, the market for recycled metals between allied countries is expected to gain even more relevance in the coming years.