Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2026-01-19 01:09Core Insights - Molybdenum is a critical transition metal with high melting point and strength, categorized into four main forms: pure molybdenum, molybdenum alloys, molybdenum compounds, and molybdenum products [1][2][3] - The global molybdenum market is characterized by a long-term tight balance, with a projected demand gap of 0.39 million tons in 2024, which may expand in the future [1][7] - China holds a significant advantage in molybdenum reserves, becoming the core support for global molybdenum industry development, with production and consumption both leading globally [1][9] Industry Overview - The molybdenum industry is divided into three main segments: upstream (exploration and mining), midstream (smelting and processing), and downstream (deep processing and end applications) [5][6] - Upstream is dominated by major enterprises that control core resources, while midstream is characterized by high industry concentration but relies on imported high-end technologies [5][6] - Downstream applications are primarily in the steel industry, with rapid growth in emerging fields such as renewable energy and aerospace [1][6] Policy and Strategic Importance - Recent policies from the Chinese government aim to regulate resource management and promote industry upgrades, including export controls and support for green mining technologies [6][7] - Molybdenum is classified as a strategic mineral due to its scarcity and concentrated global distribution, with China, the US, and Peru being the top three countries in terms of reserves [6][7] Supply and Demand Dynamics - Global molybdenum production is expected to remain between 262,100 tons and 290,200 tons from 2020 to 2024, with consumption fluctuating between 247,600 tons and 294,100 tons [7][8] - In 2024, China's molybdenum production is projected to reach 133,700 tons, with consumption also on the rise, reflecting a compound annual growth rate of 6.78% from 2020 to 2024 [10][11] Competitive Landscape - The Chinese molybdenum industry is characterized by an oligopolistic structure, with leading companies like Jinduicheng Molybdenum Co., Ltd. and Luoyang Molybdenum Co., Ltd. controlling approximately 70% of the market share [11][12] - The competition is intensifying as smaller firms focus on niche markets, while larger firms leverage their resources and technology to maintain a competitive edge [11][12] Future Development Trends - The industry is expected to shift towards green and intelligent resource development, with a focus on efficient utilization of low-grade and associated molybdenum ores [12][13] - There will be a transition from traditional raw material output to high-end manufacturing, with an emphasis on domestic production of high-purity molybdenum products and specialized alloys [12][13] - Demand for molybdenum is anticipated to grow in both traditional sectors and emerging fields, with strategic support from policies aimed at enhancing the high-potential areas of the industry [12][14]