17-02-2025
A Little-Known Metal Spikes as China-US Trade Showdown Hits Home
Bismuth — a little-known but critical metal used in defense industries — has spiked to a decade-high after China added the commodity to an export-control list in retaliation for US tariffs.
The metal, which is also used in automotive coatings, paints and low-temperature alloys and castings, has surged 38% to $8.25 a pound since the curbs were imposed on Feb. 4, according to data from Fastmarkets Ltd. The restrictions mean that local exporters must first obtain permission for overseas sales.
