Zhong Guo Neng Yuan Wang·2025-09-29 07:42Core Insights - The global cesium and rubidium resources are rare and concentrated, with significant applications in various high-tech fields [2][3][8] - The supply of cesium and rubidium salts is rigid, with a notable market share held by Zhongjin Resources [4][5][9] Group 1: Resource Availability - As of 2020, global cesium ore reserves were approximately 220,000 tons, primarily located in Canada (120,000 tons, 55%), Zimbabwe (60,000 tons, 28%), Namibia (30,000 tons, 14%), and Australia (7,100 tons, 3%) [3] - By 2024, global cesium mineral resources are reported to be less than 200,000 tons, mainly concentrated in Australia, Canada, Namibia, and China [3] - Global rubidium reserves are highly concentrated, with 102,000 tons reported in 2020 (excluding China), primarily in Namibia (50,000 tons, 49%), Zimbabwe (30,000 tons, 29%), and Canada (12,000 tons, 12%) [3] Group 2: Market Dynamics - The global production of cesium and rubidium salts peaked in 2021 at 2,231 tons, but is projected to decline by 13.9% to 1,921 tons by 2024 [4][5] - Zhongjin Resources' production decreased from 993 tons in 2021 to 960 tons in 2024, yet its market share increased from 45% to approximately 50% [5] - The scarcity of available cesium and rubidium resources is driving a rigid supply, enhancing Zhongjin Resources' market position [5][9] Group 3: Pricing and Demand - The price of international rubidium has increased from 775 RMB per gram in 2020 to 900 RMB per gram in 2024, with a CAGR of 3.8% [6] - The average annual price increase for Zhongjin Resources' cesium and rubidium fine chemical products is projected to be 24% from 2022 to 2024 [6] - The limited supply of rubidium, which is produced as a byproduct of lithium and cesium extraction, is constraining market applications despite its similar demand profile to cesium [6][9] Group 4: Technological Advancements - Domestic companies are making progress in lithium mica cesium and rubidium extraction technologies, which is crucial for supply chain risk control and industry upgrades [7] - Jin Yinhe's low-temperature sulfuric acid method for lithium mica extraction is noted for its low energy consumption and high purity, significantly reducing extraction costs [7] - The projected annual production capacity for rubidium and cesium salts from Jin Yinhe is estimated to be 1,200-1,700 tons and 300-450 tons, respectively, enhancing the supply chain security for cesium and rubidium resources in China [7] Group 5: Future Supply Expansion - Global cesium and rubidium supply is expected to increase due to expansion plans by leading companies, with Zhongjin Resources set to boost its production capacity by 50% by 2025 [8][9] - The overall cesium supply is projected to rise from 1,881 tons in 2024 to 2,811 tons by 2027, with a CAGR of 14%, while rubidium supply is expected to grow from 40 tons to 1,740 tons in the same period [9] - The demand for cesium and rubidium is anticipated to grow due to advancements in high-tech applications and emerging needs in new energy sectors [9]