Cerium Price Trend and Forecast

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cerium Price Trends by Country

cnChina
inIndia
nlNetherlands
usUnited States

Global cerium Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Cerium price assessment:

  • Purity:-99% CIF Nhava Sheva (China), India
  • Purity:-99% CIF Rotterdam (China), Netherlands
  • Purity:-99% CIF Houston (China), USA
  • Purity:-99% FOB Shanghai, China

Cerium Price Trend Q3 2025

The global Cerium market showed a positive tendency in Q3 2025, with prices increasing 8.82% over the July-September 2025 time frame. This trend has been supported by strong demand from principal end-use industries, such as automotive catalysts, glass polishing, and electronics manufacturing.

Supply limitations from main producer countries, compounded by rising raw material and energy costs, provided additional support to higher prices. Although some regions saw mild price moderation due to localized destocking, market sentiment remained strong, helping to create a noticeable uptick in Cerium prices during the quarter.

USA

Cerium Import prices CIF Houston, USA, Grade- Purity: -99%.

In Q3 2025, the cerium price trend in the USA inclined by 6.28% compared to the previous quarter, driven by steady demand from the glass polishing, catalytic, and specialty alloy industries in the first half of the quarter. Limited imports from China and constrained domestic supply supported the upward movement, while downstream manufacturers increased procurement to secure inventories amid expectations of continued tight global availability.

Rising energy and raw material costs also contributed to firmer pricing. Overall, market sentiment remained positive, with producers cautiously managing output to maintain a balanced supply-demand scenario. However, Cerium prices in the USA declined by 2.36% in September 2025, primarily driven by softening demand from the automotive, glass polishing, and electronics sectors amid slower industrial activity.

Steady import supplies and comfortable inventory levels further weighed on market sentiment, resulting in a notable downward adjustment in prices. Overall, the cerium market in the USA during Q3 2025 reflected a declining trend, with expectations of moderate stabilization in Q4 as downstream demand shows gradual improvement.

Netherlands

Cerium Import prices CIF Rotterdam, Netherlands, Grade- Purity: -99%.

In the third quarter of 2025, the price of Cerium Metal in the Netherlands rose by 8.59% compared to the previous quarter, supported by strong demand from the glass polishing, chemical catalyst, and specialty alloy industries in the first half of the quarter. Global suppliers had limited availability, particularly from China, and energy and transportation costs rose, all contributing to increases in local prices in July-August 2025.

However, the prices of cerium in the Netherlands fell by 2.09% in September 2025, as demand from the glass, automotive, and polishing markets moderated due to slower downstream activity. Adequate domestic inventories and stable imports from global sources contributed to downward price pressure. Overall, the cerium price trend in the Netherlands softened in later Q3 2025, but expectations for moderate growth will stabilize in Q4, as we expect industrial consumption and downstream orders will improve.

China

Cerium Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- Purity: -99%.

In China, Cerium price trend in China witnessed significant rise as the prices increased by 6.08% in the third quarter of 2025 on quarterly basis, sharply higher than the previous quarter due to healthy demand from glass polishing, catalytic converters, and electronic applications n H1 of the third quarter. Strongly positive downstream consumption and tighter conditions in domestic supply caused the price increase in July-August 2025.

There has been positive market sentiment as manufacturers will remain sensitive to volumes while balancing demand and rising industrial requirements to support a firm, bullish trend in cerium prices throughout the quarterly period. However, Cerium prices in China fell by 2.98% in September of 2025, largely attributed to slowdown in demand for automotive and glass polishing and slower downstream developments in industrial activity.

Steady domestic production and sufficient inventory levels, along with limited priced export inquiry, contributed to this pricing pressure. The cerium market in China continues to develop; while prices did appear to soften in laterQ3, there has been increased expectation of moderate stabilization in Q4 as downstream demand for cerium begins to normalize. Additionally, mild increases in the cost of production energy and raw rare-earth feedstock likely to support prices going forward.

India

Cerium Import prices CIF Nhava Sheva, India, Grade- Purity: -99%.

According to PriceWatch, In the third quarter of 2025, cerium price trend in India rose sharply, as the prices increased substantially by 14.32% quarter-on-quarter on the back of robust demand from polishing, catalyst, and specialty alloy applications in the first half of Q3. Domestic supply was limited and imports from China remained stable, helping to put upwards pressure on pricing in July and August 2025.

Rising costs for raw materials and energy provided additional support for the increase in prices. Industrial buyers were also actively replenishing stocks in anticipation of continued tight supply. Market sentiments remained positive, and producers were exercising caution by balancing production with sales in order to maintain the uptick.

However, in September 2025, Cerium prices in India fell by 1.98% amid weakening demand from glass, polishing, and automotive sectors as end-users demonstrated cautious procurement activity. Domestic supply has been aptly supported by imports from China, adding further pressure to the downward pressure on downstream market demand.

Overall, the cerium market in India softened towards the later stages of third quarter of 2025, with the expectation of gradual stabilization in the fourth quarter as downstream industrial activity improved.

Cerium Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, the cerium market experienced a significant price surge, with values increasing by $37,979 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai marking a 10.17% rise, driven by tightening supply and strong downstream demand. This sharp uptick reflects constraints from production cuts among major Chinese rare earth producers, coupled with heightened procurement activity from sectors such as automotive catalysts, glass polishing, and electronics.

The spike, notably higher than the average market trend, suggests that high purity or specialized cerium grades saw particularly strong buying pressure. This price momentum underscores China’s dominant role in the global rare earth supply chain and signals continued volatility amid evolving industrial demand and policy shifts.

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, the price of Cerium in India increased by $38,401 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) reflecting an 8.08% rise compared to the previous quarter. This notable surge is driven by a combination of constrained global supply particularly from China, a dominant producer and steady domestic demand from sectors such as automotive, electronics, and renewable energy.

Cerium’s role in catalytic converters, glass polishing, and green technologies has kept consumption robust, while limited availability has tightened the market. The price jump signals pressure on downstream manufacturers but also indicates a strong demand outlook that could sustain elevated prices in the near term unless new supply sources emerge.

In Q1 2025, the cerium market experienced a notable price decline of $34,472 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai representing a 0.75% decrease. This modest dip suggests a relatively stable market influenced by slight shifts in supply demand dynamics. Factors potentially contributing to the price reduction include a marginal oversupply from Chinese producers, reduced demand from the automotive and electronics sectors, or broader economic uncertainties impacting rare earth consumption.

Despite the drop, the percentage change remains minor, indicating that the market is not undergoing drastic volatility but rather a controlled correction or seasonal adjustment. Monitoring geopolitical developments and downstream industrial activity will be essential for forecasting future trends in cerium pricing.

In Q1 2025, cerium prices in India experienced a decline of $35,882 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) reflecting a 0.35% decrease. This downturn aligns with global market trends observed in the previous quarter, where cerium prices in regions like North America and China also saw reductions due to factors such as increased supply and decreased demand in key sectors like construction and automotive.

The Indian market, though smaller in scale, mirrors these global dynamics, with key applications in glass, alloys, and catalysts. The automotive sector’s demand for cerium hydroxide, particularly in catalytic converters, is influenced by factors like emission regulations and vehicle production rates.

Cerium Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the price of cerium experienced a notable increase, rising by $34,733 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai which represents a 1.43% growth compared to the previous quarter. This uptick reflects strengthening demand, particularly from the automotive and renewable energy sectors, where cerium is used in catalytic converters and glass polishing applications.

The moderate yet significant percentage rise suggests a stable but growing market interest, possibly driven by tightened supply chains and increased investment in green technologies. Overall, the price movement indicates a positive trajectory for cerium, hinting at sustained industrial reliance and potential further gains into early 2025.

In Q4 2024, cerium prices in India rose by $36,008 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) a 2.01% increase, driven by robust demand in the domestic market. While global cerium prices, particularly in China and the U.S., experienced declines due to factors like increased supply and reduced demand in industries such as automotive and construction, India saw a contrasting trend.

The country’s growing automotive sector, stricter emission standards, and the expansion of electric vehicle technologies boosted the demand for cerium-based catalysts. This, coupled with a rise in cerium usage in electronics, led to the price increase, showcasing India’s strengthening position in the global cerium market amidst a global downturn.

In Q3 2024, cerium experienced a notable price increase, rising by $34,242 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai equivalent to a 1.77% gain. This upward trend reflects tightening supply conditions amid sustained industrial demand, particularly from the automotive and electronics sectors where cerium is used in catalytic converters and polishing compounds.

The moderate percentage increase, despite the significant nominal rise, suggests a high baseline price, indicating cerium’s established value in the rare earth market. Market analysts attribute the movement to both strategic stockpiling and geopolitical factors affecting global rare earth supply chains, particularly involving major producers like China.

In the third quarter of 2024, cerium prices in India saw a significant increase of $35,297 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) marking a 2.61% rise. This price uptick is attributed to stable supply conditions, moderate demand, and continued growth in key sectors like automotive, electronics, and renewable energy, where cerium is heavily used, especially in catalytic converters and various industrial applications.

The rise in prices is also linked to external market factors and logistical challenges impacting the global supply chain. Despite some economic uncertainty, cerium’s demand remains strong due to stricter emission regulations and growth in electric vehicle production. Looking ahead, the market is expected to grow steadily, with cerium applications continuing to drive demand across diverse industries.

In Quarter 2 of 2024, cerium prices are expected to experience a significant increase of $33,648 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai reflecting a 5.79% rise. This price surge is likely to be driven by factors such as increased demand for cerium in industries like renewable energy and electronics, along with supply chain constraints that are tightening the availability of rare earth elements.

Additionally, geopolitical tensions and trade policies could also be influencing the market dynamics, leading to higher costs for cerium production and distribution. The increase in cerium prices might impact manufacturers who rely on this metal for catalysts, polishing agents, and other specialized applications, potentially raising production costs across various sectors.

In the second quarter of 2024, the cerium market in India saw a notable price increase of $34,398 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) reflecting a 6.11% rise. This surge was driven by global supply constraints, particularly from China, where reduced inventories and rising prices from major producer Northern Rare Earth (NRE) created upward pressure. Additionally, strong demand from sectors such as automotive, where cerium is used in catalytic converters, as well as electronics and glass polishing, contributed to the price hike.

India’s growing industrial needs, including in defense and technology, further supported the upward price trend, positioning cerium as a crucial material in key applications. This price increase is also aligned with the broader global market dynamics, where cerium’s demand continues to rise.

In Quarter 1 of 2024, cerium prices saw a notable increase, rising by $31,805 per metric ton, FOB Shanghai reflecting a 6.31% surge. This price escalation is likely driven by various factors such as increased demand in key sectors like electronics, automotive, and renewable energy, where cerium plays a critical role in catalytic converters, polishing agents, and battery technologies.

Additionally, supply chain disruptions, production challenges, or shifts in mining capacity could have contributed to the tight supply, further pushing prices upward. The 6.31% rise in cerium’s cost marks a significant shift, indicating growing market dynamics and the potential for continued price volatility, depending on the stability of supply and demand trends.

In Q1 2024, cerium prices in India experienced a notable increase, rising by $32,417 per metric ton, CIF Nhava Sheva (China) which translates to a 6.24% uptick. This surge can be attributed to several key factors influencing both domestic and global markets. Globally, cerium prices were affected by shifts in supply and demand dynamics, including increased production in regions like China, which led to price fluctuations.

Domestically, India’s cerium market is projected to reach a revenue of USD 3.3 million by 2028, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% from 2022 to 2028. This growth is driven by rising demand in sectors such as automotive, electronics, and renewable energy, where cerium plays a crucial role in catalytic converters, polishing agents, and energy storage technologies.

Additionally, fluctuations in global supply chains and geopolitical factors have contributed to price volatility, impacting the Indian cerium market. Overall, the 6.24% price increase reflects a complex interplay of domestic demand, global supply conditions, and market uncertainties.

Technical Specifications of Cerium Price Trends

Product Description

Cerium is a silvery-white rare earth metal belonging to the lanthanide series. It is one of the most abundant rare earth metals in the Earth’s crust and is valued for its versatile chemical properties, including its ability to exist mainly in +3 and +4 oxidation states. Cerium is refined metal product derived from the byproducts of aluminum and zinc processing.

Known for their low melting point, high thermal stability, and unique electrical properties, Cerium is a critical material in semiconductors, solar cells, and advanced electronics. Its versatility makes it indispensable for emerging technologies and high-performance applications.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • HS Code – 284610


Cerium Synonyms:

  • Cerium
  • Cerio
  • Cerium ingot
  • Cerium chips
  • Cerium foil
  • Metallic Cerium,
  • Cerium Lump
  • Ce Metal


Cerium Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Cerium Purity: 99% Price Trend


Cerium Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 10-15MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Steel drum


Incoterms Referenced in Cerium Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Cerium Export price from China 
CIF Houston  Houston, USA  Cerium Import price from China 
CIF Rotterdam  Rotterdam, Netherlands  Cerium Import price from China 
CIF Nhava Sheva  Nhava Sheva, India  Cerium Import price from China 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Cerium being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Cerium packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.


Key Cerium Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
China Northern Rare Earth Group 
Baotou Steel Rare Earth Co., Ltd. 
Lynas Rare Earths Ltd. 
Indian Rare Earths Ltd. (IREL) 
Solvay Group (Europe) 
MP Materials Corp. (USA) 

Cerium Industrial Applications

Cerium metal market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Cerium prices

  • Supply Chain Disruptions (2022-2023): Geopolitical tensions and disruptions in raw material sourcing, such as bauxite and zinc processing, impacted Cerium production and availability, creating price volatility. These events highlight the sensitivity of the Cerium market to technological trends, supply chain factors, and geopolitical developments.
  • Renewable Energy Expansion (2022-2023): The shift towards renewable energy sources, particularly solar power, drove higher demand for Cerium in photovoltaic cells, contributing to price escalation.
  • Semiconductor Boom (2020-2021): The global surge in semiconductor demand during the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of Cerium-based materials, leading to significant price increases.

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global cerium price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the cerium market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence cerium prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely cerium market data.

Track PriceWatch's cerium price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: We aggregate data from global exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases to provide accurate and timely assessments.
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Insights from producers, suppliers, and end-users in key production hubs are integrated to understand market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: Comprehensive tracking of raw materials (e.g., bauxite, zinc residues) and production channels to assess supply conditions.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: Continuous monitoring of geopolitical events affecting supply chains and pricing.
  • Economic Shifts: Analysis of macroeconomic factors and sector-specific demand to predict market movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: Detailed tracking of operational Cerium production facilities and their outputs.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Forecasting new capacity additions and technological innovations in Cerium production.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: Evaluating Cerium demand in semiconductors, photovoltaics, and other applications.
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Regional demand variations and their impact on global pricing.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: Advanced models incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and market projections.
  • Scenario Analysis: Assessing potential market conditions under various scenarios.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Detailed analyses of current and future price trends, with actionable insights.
  • Ongoing Support: Continuous updates and expert advice tailored to client needs.

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Cerium pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Cerium Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for cerium. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The pricing of Cerium Ingot is influenced by several factors, including:

Supply & Availability

Primary Production: Cerium is a byproduct of aluminum (bauxite) and zinc processing. Limited primary production affects availability.

Global Reserves: Major producers include China, Germany, Japan, and South Korea. Restrictions or increased production impact pricing.

Demand from Key Industries

Semiconductors & Electronics: Used in GaAs and GaN-based semiconductors for LEDs, solar cells, and 5G technology.

Aerospace & Defense: Increasing military applications drive demand.

Renewable Energy: Thin-film solar panels and high-efficiency energy systems boost consumption.

Purity & Quality

Higher purity (5N, 6N, or 7N) commands higher prices due to refined processing requirements.

Geopolitical Factors

Export restrictions or tariffs from major suppliers (e.g., China, the largest producer) can create price fluctuations.

Market Speculation & Investment Trends

Investors and market traders can influence short-term price volatility.

Alternative Materials & Substitutes

If alternative materials (e.g., silicon, indium, or perovskite) become more viable, demand and prices for Cerium could decrease.

Processing & Refinement Costs

Energy-intensive purification processes affect pricing, especially with rising electricity costs.

Currency Exchange Rates

Since Cerium is traded internationally, fluctuations in USD, CNY, or EUR impact its market price.

Feedstock prices such as bauxite and zinc residues directly impact production costs, influencing Cerium pricing.

Cerium prices rise with inflation due to increased production costs, though technological demand often sustains pricing despite broader economic trends.