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Molybdenum Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352306
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

molybdenum Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
inIndia
cnChina
nlNetherlands

Global molybdenum Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

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

  • FeMo(Mo-60%min.) Ex Shanghai, China
  • FeMo(Mo-60%min.) Ex Mumbai, India
  • FeMo(Mo-65%min.) FD Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • FeMo(Mo-65%min.) Del Alabama, USA

Molybdenum Price Trend Q3 2025

Global molybdenum prices demonstrated an upward trend during the third quarter of 2025, generating a roughly 10.48% increase from the previous quarter. This stage of volatility has represented mostly by strong rates of consumption due to stainless-steel and alloy demand from US, China, India, and the developed world.

Availability of Molybdenum declined through the quarter following a shutdown at a small number of mines due maintenance takedowns in 2025, exacerbated by consistent consumption from the energy and aerospace sectors. Additionally, strengthening procurements of high-performance industrial materials in Europe, for instance in the Netherlands, added upward pricing pressure.

Stability in molybdenum oxide prices and increasing exports maintained long-standing positive market sentiment. Ultimately, through the third quarter of 2025, the market exhibited strong supply-side fundamentals and a relatively strong consumption vector.

USA

Molybdenum Domestically Traded Prices Del Alabama, USA, Grade- FeMo(Mo-65%min.).

According to PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the molybdenum price trend in the USA inclined by 3.65% compared to the previous quarter, supported by steady demand from the stainless steel, oil & gas, and aerospace sectors. The moderate increase has been driven by firm global prices and stable downstream consumption, particularly in high-performance alloy manufacturing.

Although domestic supply remained sufficient, limited imports and elevated production costs contributed to the upward pressure. Market sentiment stayed positive as producers maintained controlled output to balance inventories with consistent industrial demand throughout the quarter. Molybdenum prices in the USA inclined by 3.19% in September 2025, mainly driven by steady demand from the energy, aerospace, and industrial manufacturing sectors.

Rising raw material costs and stable downstream consumption supported firmer offers from producers. Additionally, tighter global supply conditions and improved export activity added upward pressure on prices. Overall, the U.S. molybdenum market in Q3 2025 reflected a positive momentum, with optimism for continued firmness heading into Q4.

Netherlands

Molybdenum Domestically Traded prices FD Rotterdam, the Netherlands, Grade- FeMo(Mo-60%min.).

In Q3 2025, the molybdenum price trend in the Netherlands inclined by 2.95% compared to the previous quarter, driven by stable demand from the stainless steel, energy, and engineering sectors. Moderate recovery in industrial activity and steady consumption in alloy manufacturing supported the upward trend. Import prices from major producers such as China and the USA remained firm, adding to the positive price movement.

Additionally, limited regional supply and stable raw material costs contributed to the incline. Overall, the market maintained a cautiously optimistic sentiment, with prices reflecting steady demand and balanced supply conditions throughout the quarter. Molybdenum prices in the Netherlands inclined by 2.11% in September 2025, supported by stable industrial activity and moderate demand from alloy and stainless-steel manufacturers.

Improved sentiment in the European manufacturing sector, along with tighter regional inventories, contributed to the price rise. Additionally, steady import costs and limited supply availability from key exporters helped maintain a firm market tone. Overall, the Netherlands’ molybdenum market in Q3 2025 showed a mild upward trajectory, reflecting balanced supply-demand dynamics.

China

Molybdenum Export prices Ex Shanghai, China, Grade- FeMo(Mo-60%min.).

In Q3 2025, Molybdenum price trend in China saw a sharp increase of 11.27% compared to the previous quarter, driven by strong demand from stainless steel, alloy, and industrial manufacturing. Price increases have also been supported by tight domestic supply conditions and higher raw material costs. Furthermore, increased consumption of high-strength and corrosion-resistant alloys in the steelmaking sector added to upward pressure.

In addition, with limited global availability and firm export demand, market sentiment remained bolstered. The overall market stayed strong, with producers running high-capacity utilization to meet sustained industrial demand throughout the quarter. Molybdenum prices in China rose by 10.30% in September 2025 from the previous month, supported by strong demand from the stainless steel and alloy manufacturing sectors alongside tight domestic supply.

In addition, increased infrastructure investments and overall strong industrial activity supported stronger consumption, while limited imports put additional pressures on supply-demand dynamics. Overall, the molybdenum market in China during Q3 2023 demonstrated a distinctly upward trajectory, reflecting strong market fundamentals and continued optimism heading into Q4 2025.

India

Molybdenum Domestically Traded prices Ex Mumbai, India, Grade- FeMo(Mo-60%min.).

The molybdenum price trend in India showed an increase of 24.06% in Q3 2025, compared to the previous quarter, indicating strong market momentum. The increase has primarily been due to strong demand from the stainless steel, alloy and energy equipment industries and constrained supply in the world market. Increased import costs, reflecting a combination of ongoing strong international prices and limited availability, further contributed to the increase.

Additional consumption related to industrial manufacturing and infrastructure projects supported a positive market sentiment and outlook. Overall, the market remained decidedly positive, with producers and traders sustaining an optimistic outlook in relation to demand and constrained availability. Molybdenum prices in India increased by 4.06% in September 2025, with the increase primarily observed as strong demand started to come from the stainless steel, chemical and metallurgical industries.

Demand supported by industrial manufacturing activity and associated consumption related to infrastructure further supported positive market sentiment. Limited availability of molybdenum imports and strong global prices also contributed to a positive trajectory in the molybdenum markets in India during Q3 2025 and suggested continued growth potential into Q4 2025.

Molybdenum Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, molybdenum experienced a notable price decline, dropping by $31,249 per metric ton, Del Alabama which represents a 3.80% decrease compared to the previous quarter. This downward movement likely reflects a combination of factors such as a potential oversupply in the market, reduced industrial demand, or shifts in global economic conditions impacting sectors like steel production and alloy manufacturing where molybdenum is heavily used.

The price correction may also be influenced by broader commodity trends and inventory adjustments by producers and consumers. Moving forward, stakeholders will need to monitor demand signals from key industries and any geopolitical developments that could further affect supply dynamics. 

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Molybdenum India experienced a notable price decrease of $27,595 per metric ton, Ex Mumbai reflecting a 1.33% decline compared to the previous quarter. This downward adjustment suggests a softening in demand or potential shifts in global supply dynamics impacting the Indian market.

Factors such as reduced industrial activity, changes in steel production (where molybdenum is a critical alloying element), or increased availability from international suppliers might have contributed to this price correction.

While the decline is moderate in percentage terms, the significant absolute drop per metric ton indicates market sensitivity, warranting close attention from stakeholders for potential impacts on profitability and sourcing strategies moving forward. 

In Q1 2025, the price trend of molybdenum in the USA stood at USD 51,282/MT, Del Alabama reflecting a slight decrease from USD 51,617/MT, Del Alabama in Q4 2024. This marginal decline was primarily due to a combination of easing supply constraints and moderate demand from the steel and energy sectors, as well as improved inventory levels following a period of surplus in late 2024.

In the Netherlands, prices also edged down mirroring the global trend of softer demand and stable supply, with European buyers remaining cautious amid ongoing economic uncertainties. India also saw price drop q-o-q. This drop was attributed to a normalization of demand after a strong infrastructure push in late 2024 and improved import flows.

In China, prices slipped as the market adjusted to high inventory levels and a slight slowdown in industrial activity. Overall, Q1 2025 was characterized by a mild downward correction in molybdenum prices across major markets, with sentiment remaining cautious but stable as supply and demand found a new equilibrium. 

The downward trend continued into the first quarter of 2025 to USD 28804/MT, with prices dropping by 4%. The market was subdued, reflecting both ample inventories and a slowdown in new project starts. Demand from the steel and construction sectors softened, and there was little urgency among buyers to secure additional material.

Many industry participants adopted a wait and see approach, anticipating that prices might stabilize or even decline further before any significant recovery. Sentiment was cautious, with a focus on cost control and prudent inventory management. 

Molybdenum Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

Q4 2024, the global molybdenum market experienced a downturn in prices, driven by surplus inventory and shifting demand patterns. In China, high stockpile levels and reduced purchases from steel mills amid falling steel prices resulted in price declines, though slight growth in the manufacturing sector provided some stability. India’s market mirrored regional trends, with demand moderating as infrastructure activity normalized after previous quarters of rapid growth.

The USA saw a notable price drop, particularly in November, as surplus and fluctuating demand weighed on the market, while the automotive industry remained resilient, the construction sector continued to face challenges from elevated borrowing costs and slow real estate activity.

In the Netherlands, and Europe more broadly, environmental regulations and energy costs continued to influence market dynamics, with demand softening in line with broader economic uncertainties. Overall, Q4 2024 was characterized by inventory-driven price corrections and cautious market sentiment, especially in Western economies, while Asia remained the primary centre of consumption and production. 

In the fourth quarter, Indian molybdenum prices declined by 2.4% to USD 29992/MT. This reversal was mainly due to improved supply conditions and a slight cooling in demand as several large infrastructure projects neared completion. The market sentiment turned more cautious, with buyers focusing on managing existing inventories rather than expanding them. There was a general expectation that prices might soften further, prompting many to delay significant purchases. The overall mood was one of restraint, as stakeholders waited for new demand drivers to emerge. 

The third quarter of 2024 saw continued strength in the Asia-Pacific region, with China and India maintaining their roles as key demand drivers due to ongoing infrastructure and manufacturing expansion. China’s steel industry supported robust molybdenum consumption, while India’s construction sector remained active. However, global supply chains faced intermittent disruptions, leading to localized shortages and increased market sensitivity.

In the USA, the automotive sector showed positive momentum, but the construction industry struggled with high borrowing costs and delayed projects, which tempered overall demand. The Netherlands and other European markets navigated fluctuating energy prices and regulatory pressures, impacting production costs and influencing procurement decisions. The quarter was marked by strong Asian demand and mixed conditions in Western economies. 

The third quarter saw a further, albeit modest, increase in prices by 1.1% to USD 30723/MT. The market remained generally upbeat, buoyed by ongoing infrastructure activity and steady industrial consumption. However, the pace of price growth slowed, indicating the market was reaching a near-term equilibrium.

Buyers became more prudent, as the rapid gains of the previous quarter raised concerns about potential corrections. Inventory levels were healthy, and there was a sense of cautious optimism, with companies closely monitoring both domestic and international market developments. 

During the second quarter of 2024, the molybdenum market experienced increased volatility as supply constraints began to ease and demand from steel mills in China and India remained high. China’s manufacturing sector showed signs of growth, supported by government initiatives, which bolstered domestic consumption. India continued to benefit from infrastructure development and policy support for recycling and sustainability, further driving demand.

In the USA, industrial activity picked up modestly, but the market faced headwinds from high input costs and uncertain economic conditions, leading to cautious procurement strategies. The Netherlands, reflecting broader European trends, saw stable demand from specialty metals industries, but was impacted by energy costs and environmental regulations. This quarter was characterized by an uptick in industrial activity in Asia and a cautious but steady outlook in Western markets.

In the second quarter, molybdenum prices in India rose by 4.7% to USD 30402/MT compared to Q1 2024. This price increase was driven by a surge in demand from infrastructure and construction projects, as well as a pickup in the automotive and engineering sectors. The government’s continued investment in infrastructure created a positive outlook, prompting buyers to secure supplies in anticipation of further growth.

Additionally, concerns about potential global supply constraints led to more aggressive procurement strategies. The sentiment during this period was optimistic, with both traders and end-users expecting robust demand to persist. 

In the first quarter of 2024, the global molybdenum market was shaped by a combination of steady industrial demand and ongoing supply chain adjustments. The Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, continued to dominate both production and consumption due to robust steel manufacturing and infrastructure projects. In China, rapid industrialization and government support for manufacturing kept demand strong, while in India, rising investments in construction and manufacturing sustained consumption growth.

In the USA and the Netherlands, market conditions were influenced by stable demand from the automotive and aerospace sectors, but lingering supply chain disruptions and cautious inventory management led to moderate price movements. Overall, the quarter was marked by a balance between demand recovery in Asia and cautious optimism in Western markets. 

The first quarter of 2024 saw Indian molybdenum prices edge down slightly from the previous quarter, declining by 0.27% to USD 29,036/MT. This marginal decrease reflected a period of stability in the market. Demand from core sectors such as steel manufacturing and specialty alloys remained steady, but there was no significant surge in consumption.

Supply chains were functioning smoothly, and there were no major disruptions or shortages. Buyers adopted a cautious approach, purchasing primarily to meet immediate needs rather than speculating on future price hikes. Overall, the sentiment was one of watchful stability, with participants waiting for clearer signals on demand growth. 

 

Technical Specifications of Molybdenum Price Trends

Product Description

Molybdenum is a silvery grey, hard, and tough metal known for its exceptional strength, high melting point (2615°C), and resistance to corrosion and wear. It is primarily used as an alloying element in steel and other metals to enhance strength, hardness, toughness, and resistance to high temperatures and corrosion. About 80% of global molybdenum production is consumed by the steel industry, where it is added to structural steel, stainless steel, tool steel, and cast iron to improve mechanical properties and durability.

Identifiers and Classification:

HS Code – 81021000

Molybdenum Synonyms:

  • Molybdenum (Mo)
  • Molybdenum metal
  • Molybdenum element
  • Metallic Molybdenum


Molybdenum Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Molybdenum FeMo(Mo-65%min.) Price Trend
  • Molybdenum FeMo(Mo-60%min.) Price Trend


Molybdenum Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 30-35MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 500kg Steel drum


Incoterms Referenced in Molybdenum Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
Ex Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Domestically Traded Molybdenum price in China 
Del Alabama  Alabama, USA  Domestically Traded Molybdenum price in USA 
FD Rottterdam  Rottterdam, Netherland  Domestically Traded Molybdenum price in Netherland 
EX-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded Molybdenum price in India 

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

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

Key Molybdenum Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Climax Molybdenum 
Elmet Technologies, Inc. 
Shepherd Chemical 
CMOC Group Limited 
Jinduicheng Molybdenum Group Mining Corporation 
Otto Chemie Pvt. Ltd. 
Rotterdam Overseas Network 
Shaanxi Nonferrous Metals Holding Group 

Molybdenum Industrial Applications

molybdenum market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Molybdenum prices

  • Global Supply Chain Disruption (2022): The war in Ukraine and other geopolitical tensions disrupted supply chains, leading to price volatility in various commodities, including Molybdenum. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2019-2020): The global pandemic led to a significant decline in demand for Molybdenum-intensive industries, such as steelmaking and automotive manufacturing, causing prices to plummet. 
  • Global Economic Downturn (2019-2020): The global economic slowdown, particularly in sectors like steel and automotive, led to reduced demand for Molybdenum, resulting in lower prices. 


These events underscore the Molybdenum market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global molybdenum price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the molybdenum 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 molybdenum prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely molybdenum market data.

Track PriceWatch's molybdenum 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: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Molybdenum production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Molybdenum supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Molybdenum prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Molybdenum production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the APAC coasts. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging, to predict shifts in Molybdenum demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Molybdenum production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Molybdenum production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides an in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Molybdenum pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Molybdenum prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most-likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

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

Molybdenum 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 molybdenum. 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 price of Molybdenum is influenced by several key factors, including:

1. Global Demand

Driven by the steel industry (especially stainless and alloy steel), and use in aerospace, energy, and catalysts. Higher industrial activity increases demand.

2. Supply Constraints

Molybdenum is mostly produced as a byproduct of copper mining. Disruptions in copper mines or low copper production directly affect Mo supply.

3. Mining & Production Costs

Higher energy, labor, and environmental costs can increase the cost of molybdenum, impacting its market price.

4. Geopolitical Events

Export restrictions, sanctions, or political instability in major producing countries (e.g., China, USA, Chile) can influence supply.

5. Exchange Rates

Since molybdenum is priced in USD, fluctuations in the dollar affect international purchasing power and pricing.

6. Freight and Logistics Costs

Transportation costs for shipping raw materials and finished coils.

Availability of containers and shipping routes.

7. Government Regulations and Taxes

Import/export duties, anti-dumping duties, and environmental compliance costs.

Certification requirements (ISO, ASTM) affecting production expenses.

8. Seasonal and Regional Variations

Prices may fluctuate based on regional demand-supply dynamics.

Seasonal demand from industries like construction can cause price hikes.

Commodity prices can have a significant impact on inflation. When commodity prices rise, it can increase the cost of production for businesses, which may pass these costs on to consumers in the form of higher prices. This can lead to inflation, a sustained increase in the general price level of goods and services in an economy.  

PriceWatch, a leading procurement intelligence firm, offers a comprehensive suite of tools and services to help you effectively track Molybdenum prices.

Some of the key benefits of using PriceWatch include:

 Real-time Data: Access to up-to-date market intelligence and data on commodity supply chains.

Expert Analysis: Insights from industry experts to interpret market trends and identify potential risks.

Risk Assessment: Tools to assess supply chain vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies.

Benchmarking: Comparisons of Molybdenum plate prices and sourcing practices to optimize procurement decisions.

Supplier Intelligence: Detailed information on suppliers, including their financial health, production capacity, and sustainability practices.

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