United States Antimony (US:UAMY) 光大证券研究·2025-09-25 23:06Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the recent contract awarded to U.S. Antimony Corporation (USAC) by the U.S. Department of Defense for the supply of antimony metal ingots, highlighting the strategic importance of antimony in the supply chain and its price fluctuations in 2025 [4][6]. Group 1: Contract and Supply Chain Security - U.S. Antimony Corporation has secured a five-year exclusive contract with the U.S. Department of Defense, with a maximum supply value of $245 million for antimony metal ingots [4]. - The contract reflects U.S. concerns over supply chain security for antimony, which is classified as a critical mineral by the U.S. and other countries [6]. Group 2: Antimony Price Trends - Antimony prices experienced significant fluctuations in 2025, rising from 143,000 CNY/ton to 240,000 CNY/ton between January 1 and April 17, marking a 68% increase [7][8]. - Following the peak, prices fell to 176,000 CNY/ton by September 22, attributed to reduced demand and government policies targeting smuggling [8]. Group 3: Export Dynamics - In 2023, China's antimony export volume accounted for 35% of its production, with a notable decline in exports during May to July due to government crackdowns on smuggling [10]. - However, signs of recovery in exports were observed in August, with a significant month-on-month increase [10].