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Tellurium Metal Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 11112204
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⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

tellurium metal Price Trends by Country

cnChina
nlNetherlands

Global tellurium metal Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch™ provides price assessments for Tellurium Metal across top trading regions:

Asia-Pacific

  • Tellurium Metal 99.99%min EX-Shanghai, China


Europe

  • Tellurium Metal 99.99%min EX-warehouse Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • Tellurium Metal 99.9%min EX-warehouse Rotterdam, Netherlands


Note: In assessments structured as CIF [Importing Port] (Exporting Country), the country mentioned in brackets indicates the primary origin of supply (exporting country), while the named port refers to the destination port in the importing country. Other Incoterms (FOB, FD, EXW, etc.) should be interpreted in accordance with standard international trade definitions.

Tellurium Metal Price Trend Q1 2026

In Q1 2026, the global Tellurium market demonstrated a dramatically inclined trend across both China and the Netherlands, with extraordinary price gains that reflected a fundamental reassessment of Tellurium’s supply security and demand outlook driven by surging solar energy demand.

Tellurium is a critical component in cadmium telluride thin-film solar panels, the technology pioneered and commercialized by First Solar and others, and the acceleration of solar energy deployment globally created acute upward pressure on this ultra-rare byproduct metal.

Tellurium is extracted almost exclusively as a byproduct of copper anode slimes processing, meaning its supply cannot be independently ramped up in response to higher prices and is dictated by the pace of copper smelting.

The dramatic gap between the speed of solar demand growth and the structural limitations on Tellurium supply created the conditions for the extraordinary Q1 2026 price surge. Both Chinese domestic prices and European import prices moved sharply higher as buyers competed for limited available material.

Thermoelectric applications and specialty alloys also contributed to incremental demand during the quarter. Overall, the Tellurium market in Q1 2026 experienced one of its most dramatic price cycles, reflecting the powerful intersection of clean energy demand growth and structurally constrained byproduct metal supply.

China: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices EX-Shanghai, China; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

In Q1 2026, the Tellurium price trend in China inclined dramatically by 10.31% when compared to Q4 2025, though this figure understates the extraordinary trajectory that has been underway as the quarter progressed, with the March monthly gain providing a clearer picture of the market’s momentum.

China is both a major producer of Tellurium, through its dominant copper smelting industry, and a significant consumer for solar panel production and specialty applications. Domestic demand from China’s rapidly expanding solar manufacturing sector, where cadmium telluride thin-film technology competes with silicon-based alternatives, placed significant pressure on available Tellurium supplies.

International buyers, including North American and European solar manufacturers, competed with Chinese domestic consumers for available Chinese Tellurium, creating a multi-directional demand surge that overwhelmed the relatively modest supply flows from copper anode slime processing.

Government commitments to renewable energy capacity expansion in China’s 15th Five-Year Plan framework provided a visible multi-year demand horizon that encouraged strategic buying.

In March 2026, Tellurium prices in China rose by 4.58%, a strong monthly gain that confirmed the upward trajectory was sustained and building through the quarter-end.

Overall, China’s Tellurium market delivered a dramatically inclined quarter driven by solar sector demand acceleration and structurally constrained supply.

Netherlands: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices Ex-warehouse Rotterdam, Netherlands; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

In Q1 2026, the Tellurium price trend in Netherlands declined marginally by 3.00% when compared to Q4 2025, a counter-intuitive outcome relative to the Chinese market and one that appears to reflect timing differences in European procurement and possibly the specific measurement methodology for European prices relative to Chinese spot markets.

European buyers of Tellurium, primarily solar panel manufacturers and specialty chemical producers, have been active in seeking supply during Q1 as awareness of global tightness grew, but the effective realized prices in European markets may have lagged the Chinese market movement due to contract structures and hedging arrangements.

The Netherlands serves as an entry point for Tellurium imported into Europe, and the physical availability of material during parts of the quarter has been subject to shipping and logistics timing that could create temporary discrepancies between global and European market prices.

European solar manufacturing ambitions, including domestic thin-film panel production capacity under development, underpin the medium-term demand outlook for Tellurium in the region. In March 2026, Tellurium prices in Netherlands rose by 0.85%, suggesting the European market began realigning with global price direction through the quarter-end.

Overall, the Netherlands Tellurium market recorded a marginally declined quarter that likely represented a timing lag relative to the extraordinary global Tellurium price cycle underway in Q1 2026.

Tellurium Metal Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

The Tellurium Metal worldwide continued its ascendancy in Q4 2025 as demand rose due to recoveries in procurement and limiting supply. The demand for photovoltaic products has been driven by increase from manufacturers in anticipation of their future solar contractor projects and their production schedules.

Furthermore, the renewable energy demand globally has been on the rise, causing an increased demand for tellurium photovoltaic materials. At the same time, fluctuations in copper smelting resulted in reduced availability of reclaimed tellurium in some markets.

In Europe, import demand has been steady due to long-term clean energy policies in place. In addition, there has been an increase in spot market trades as buyers looked to secure supply ahead of the year-end deadlines for purchasing.

In addition, other sectors such as semiconductors and thermoelectric have also increased demand by elevated levels of consumption. Asian suppliers continued to ship product even though many have experienced reduction in their inventory levels.

China: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices EX-Shanghai, China; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

According to Price-Watch™ , In Q4 2025, China’s Tellurium Metal price trend registered a significant quarterly rise of 18.98% compared to the previous quarter, supported by strengthening downstream demand and tighter supply conditions.

Demand from photovoltaic manufacturers increased notably as production of cadmium telluride solar modules expanded toward the end of the year. Improved procurement activity from electronics and thermoelectric device manufacturers also contributed to stronger market sentiment.

During the quarter, In December 2025, Tellurium prices in China recorded a moderate increase of 4%, reflecting sustained buying interest and steady trading activity in the domestic market. In addition, temporary maintenance activities at several copper smelters restricted the recovery of tellurium, tightening supply availability.

Export demand from European buyers further supported price improvements, encouraging suppliers to maintain firm offers. Traders also reported increased restocking by downstream industries ahead of upcoming production cycles. Overall, tightening supply and stronger renewable energy demand drove the Chinese tellurium market upward during the quarter.

Netherlands: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices Ex-warehouse Rotterdam, Netherlands; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

In Q4 2025, Netherlands’ Tellurium Metal price trend increased modestly by 2.01% compared with the previous quarter, supported by steady import demand across the European specialty metals sector. The market benefited from consistent procurement by photovoltaic supply chains and stable consumption from semiconductor and thermoelectric industries.

European renewable energy policies continued to support solar installation projects, indirectly strengthening demand for tellurium-based materials. In the middle of the quarter, In December 2025, Tellurium prices in the Netherlands recorded a stable movement of 0%, reflecting balanced supply and demand conditions in the regional market.

Import flows from Asian producers remained consistent, ensuring adequate availability for European buyers. However, market participants maintained cautious purchasing strategies due to fluctuations in global copper refining output, which affects tellurium supply recovery. Trading activity in regional hubs such as Rotterdam remained moderate as distributors focused on maintaining stable inventories.

Q3 2025 saw mixed trends within the global Tellurium Metal market, driven by opposing demand conditions across regions. In China, the markets fell off as a result of increased copper refining output, leading to higher availability of tellurium in the domestic markets; and because of the slower procurement by photovoltaic manufacturers; all of which contributed to a slow-down in demand for tellurium from photovoltaic manufacturers during the mid-year review period.

The European markets, on the other hand, continue to grow steadily, due to renewable energy investment, and import stability; overall, demand from solar module manufacturers in Western Europe remains relatively strong, offsetting all of the decline experienced in the global market since the mid-point.

Demand for tellurium by semiconductor and thermoelectric device manufacturers has been stable across many markets. Although supply conditions for tellurium have improved, global production has remained relatively constrained due to the fact that tellurium is typically recovered as a byproduct.

Traders have reported cautious buying strategies as buyers evaluated the future demand characteristics for tellurium. Due to the conflicting movement conditions in opposite directions across the regions, these movements resulted in mixed global market trends.

China: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices EX-Shanghai, China; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

The Tellurium metal price trend in China experienced a significant decline of -16.27% for Q3 2025 compared to the previous quarter due to weakening domestic demand combined with improved supply availability.

During the first half of the quarter, many photonic & electronics manufacturing had reduced their procurement as inventory levels had been high due to accelerated purchases for the previous months.

Higher production from copper smelting resulted in more tellurium recoveries, increasing the level of tellurium available in the domestic market. Due to the uncertainty of the market, traders have primarily focused on clearing existing inventories and limited to very few spot purchases.

The price of tellurium metal in China increased slightly by 2% in September 2025, indicating a temporary demand rebound due to selective stock replenishment from solar module manufacturers.

However, the overall market continued to experience pressures from slower industrial activity and reduced demand from exports. As competition increased, some suppliers reduced their offers to maintain their sales volume. Overall improved supply along with cautious downstream purchasing all contributed to the downward trend of tellurium in the Chinese tellurium market.

Netherlands: Tellurium Metal Domestically Traded prices Ex-warehouse Rotterdam, Netherlands; Grade- Purity:99.99%min

In Q3 2025, Netherlands Tellurium Metal market, prices showed moderate improvement with a quarterly increase of 3.25% compared to the previous quarter. The European market benefited from steady import demand driven by renewable energy expansion and ongoing procurement by photovoltaic supply chains.

Demand from semiconductor and thermoelectric industries also supported consumption levels across the region. European distributors maintained stable purchasing strategies as supply from Asian exporters remained relatively consistent.

September recorded a modest increase of 1%, reflecting stable trading activity and gradual improvement in industrial demand. Market participants also noted that renewable energy investment across Europe continued to support long-term tellurium consumption.

Although global supply remained influenced by fluctuations in copper refining operations, European buyers maintained steady inventory levels. Trading hubs in the Netherlands observed balanced market conditions with moderate spot transactions. Overall, consistent industrial demand allowed the Netherlands market to maintain a mild upward trend during the quarter.

According to Price-Watch™, In Q2 2025, the global Tellurium Metal market recorded an upward trend supported by stronger industrial demand and increasing renewable energy investments. Photovoltaic manufacturers increased procurement activity as solar installation projects expanded across multiple regions.

European markets demonstrated particularly strong demand as energy transition policies continued to accelerate solar power deployment. In addition, the thermoelectric and electronics sectors contributed to improved consumption levels for tellurium-based semiconductor materials.

Supply growth remained relatively limited because tellurium production depends on by-product recovery during copper refining. Market participants reported improved trading volumes and stronger spot market activity during the quarter.

Export shipments from Asian suppliers to European markets increased to meet rising demand. Stable logistics conditions further facilitated international trade flows. Overall, strengthening renewable energy demand and constrained supply supported the upward movement of the market.

In Q1 2025, the global Tellurium Metal market displayed a mixed trend across major trading regions. In China, market activity weakened slightly due to cautious procurement by downstream industries after strong purchases in the previous quarter.

Solar module producers maintained steady production but avoided large inventory accumulation during the early months of the year. Meanwhile, European markets such as the Netherlands experienced stronger demand supported by ongoing renewable energy projects and steady imports of specialty metals.

Photovoltaic manufacturing expansion in several European countries continued to support consumption of tellurium-based materials. Global supply conditions remained closely linked to copper refining operations, keeping production levels relatively stable.

Market participants also monitored fluctuations in copper smelter activity as it affects tellurium recovery rates. Trading activity in international markets remained moderate throughout the quarter. Overall, uneven demand patterns resulted in a mixed global market trend.

Tellurium Metal Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the global Tellurium Metal market shifted to a downward trend as supply conditions improved and buyers reduced procurement activity toward the end of the year. Increased output from copper refining operations enhanced tellurium availability in international markets. Downstream industries, particularly photovoltaic manufacturers, focused on inventory adjustments following strong purchases earlier in the year. Seasonal slowdown in manufacturing activities across several industrial sectors also contributed to weaker demand. In Europe, import demand softened as buyers delayed new purchases until the beginning of the following year. Market sentiment was further influenced by cautious trading behavior and reduced spot market transactions. Logistics conditions remained stable but overall trading volumes declined slightly. Suppliers attempted to clear existing inventories, which placed additional pressure on market prices. As a result, the quarter concluded with a broadly downward movement across global tellurium markets.

In Q3 2024, the global Tellurium Metal market maintained a strong upward trend driven by tightening supply conditions and growing demand from the solar energy sector. Photovoltaic manufacturers increased procurement volumes amid rising installation of thin-film solar modules in several regions. Limited recovery rates from copper smelting operations created supply constraints, which placed additional upward pressure on the market. Environmental regulations affecting smelting activities in some regions further restricted available supply of tellurium. At the same time, semiconductor and thermoelectric material producers expanded production, contributing to stronger consumption levels. European import demand remained firm as renewable energy investment continued to expand across the region. Traders also reported increased speculative buying as market participants anticipated further supply tightness. Global supply chains faced occasional disruptions which also supported price stability at higher levels. Overall, strong renewable energy demand and limited production capacity drove the market upward during the quarter.

In Q2 2024, the global Tellurium Metal market showed an upward trend as demand conditions improved across key consuming regions. Increased procurement activity from photovoltaic manufacturers supported stronger consumption of tellurium, particularly for cadmium telluride solar cell production.

Renewable energy expansion in Europe contributed to rising imports and stronger trading activity in regional hubs such as the Netherlands. At the same time, improving industrial sentiment across electronics and thermoelectric device manufacturing sectors provided additional demand support.

Supply remained somewhat constrained because tellurium production is primarily tied to copper refining, limiting rapid increases in output. Market participants also reported stronger spot market transactions during the quarter as buyers attempted to secure material for upcoming production cycles.

Logistics conditions and stable export flows from Asian suppliers further supported international trade. Overall, stronger renewable energy investments and improved industrial demand pushed the market upward during the quarter.

In Q1 2024, the global Tellurium Metal market experienced a mixed trend across major trading regions. In China, the market moved slightly downward as downstream buyers adopted a cautious procurement strategy following sufficient inventories carried over from the previous year.

Demand from photovoltaic manufacturers remained steady but purchasing activity slowed during the early part of the quarter due to seasonal production adjustments. Meanwhile, the European market, particularly the Netherlands trading hub, showed a mild upward movement supported by stable imports of specialty metals used in renewable energy technologies.

Demand from solar module producers and semiconductor industries continued to provide underlying support to the market. However, global supply remained largely dependent on copper smelting operations, which kept availability relatively stable. Market participants also monitored fluctuations in copper refining output as it directly affects tellurium recovery levels. Overall, the quarter reflected balanced supply conditions but uneven demand across regions.

Technical Specifications of Tellurium Metal Price Trends

Product Description

Tellurium Metal is a rare, brittle, silvery-white metalloid primarily obtained as a by-product during the refining of copper and other base metals. It possesses excellent semiconductor properties and high electrical conductivity, making it valuable in several advanced technological applications. Tellurium is widely used in the production of thermoelectric devices, solar panels, alloys, and electronic components.

One of its major applications is in cadmium telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar cells, which are known for their high efficiency and cost-effective energy generation. Additionally, tellurium improves the machinability and durability of metals such as steel, copper, and lead when used as an alloying element. Due to its unique physical and chemical characteristics, tellurium plays an important role in the renewable energy, electronics, and metallurgy industries.

Identifiers and Classification:

HS Code – 28045020
CAS Number: 13494-80-9

Tellurium Metal Synonyms:

Metallic Tellurium

Tellurium Metal Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 28-30MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Wooden Case


Incoterms Referenced in Tellurium Metal Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
EX-Shanghai  Shanghai, China  Domestically Traded Tellurium Metal price in China 
Ex-warehouse Rotterdam  Rotterdam, Netherlands  Domestically Traded Tellurium Metal price in Netherlands 

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

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

Key Tellurium Metal Manufacturers

Aurubis AG 
5N Plus Inc. 
Mitsubishi Materials Corporation 
JX Advanced Metals Corporation 
Umicore 

Tellurium Metal Industrial Applications

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Tellurium Metal prices

  • China Export Controls, U.S. Tariffs & the Price Surge (2025): In early 2025, China implemented export controls on critical metals, including tellurium, introducing stricter licensing requirements for exports. Combined with ongoing U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods, these measures disrupted global supply chains and contributed to tighter market conditions, leading to increased volatility and upward pressure on tellurium prices.
  • US Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) Impact (2022–2023): The IRA provided massive incentives for domestic solar manufacturing, boosting long-term tellurium demand outlook and strengthening prices.
  • Green Energy Transition & Critical Mineral Designation (2021–2022): Global push toward net-zero emissions and solar deployment reignited strategic interest. Governments designated tellurium as a critical mineral, raising its strategic profile.
  • COVID-19 Disruption (2020): Supply chain disruptions affected copper smelting operations, while solar project delays reduced near-term demand. Prices showed moderate volatility.
  • Thermoelectric & Solar Demand Recovery (2017–2018): Renewed interest in thermoelectric applications and CdTe solar growth helped stabilize and modestly recover prices.
  • China’s Dominance & Export Controls Concern (2014–2016): China emerged as the dominant processor of tellurium. Concerns over potential export restrictions kept markets cautious.
  • Price Crash – Oversupply & Technology Efficiency Gains (2012–2016): Efficiency improvements reduced tellurium usage per panel, alternative thin-film technologies gained ground, and prices collapsed dramatically.
  • Solar Energy Policy Boom & Supply Squeeze (2010–2011): Government renewable energy incentives drove a massive solar installation surge. Tellurium supply could not scale quickly, causing prices to surge to an all-time high.
  • Global Financial Crisis Demand Collapse (2008–2009): The 2008 financial crisis caused a sharp pullback in solar investment and industrial activity. Tellurium prices fell significantly as demand contracted.
  • CdTe Solar Panel Boom – First Price Surge (2004–2008): The rise of Cadmium Telluride (CdTe) thin-film solar technology, pioneered by First Solar, dramatically increased tellurium demand. Prices climbed sharply, marking tellurium’s transformation into a strategically important metal.

 

These events highlight Tellurium Metal’s sensitivity to supply-side shocks, evolving industrial demand, regulatory pressures, and geopolitical or trade interventions, emphasizing the need for careful monitoring of both global production and consumption trends.

Why Price Watch™?

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

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

Track Price Watch's™ tellurium metal 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.

Tellurium Metal Market Price Trend published by Price Watch™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. Price Watch™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

Tellurium Metal is a rare metalloid used in alloys, solar panels, thermoelectric devices, and electronics. Its price matters because it affects the cost of advanced materials and industrial products. Price-Watch™ tracks these prices to help businesses and consumers understand and stay updated with the market trends.

Tellurium prices fluctuate depending on purity, quantity, and regional supply. They are usually quoted per kilogram or metric ton. Price-Watch™ provides real-time price assessments across different global markets to help buyers and sellers make informed decisions.

Prices are influenced by production from copper and lead refining, global demand in electronics and solar industries, and geopolitical factors. Supply disruptions and energy costs also impact trends.

Major consumers include electronics, solar panel manufacturing, thermoelectric devices, and alloy producers. Price-Watch™ analyses demand patterns across all these industries.

Tellurium Metal is primarily obtained as a by-product from copper, lead, and gold refining. China, Japan, Canada, and the US are the main producers.

China dominates global Tellurium exports due to its large refining industry, followed by Canada and Japan. Price-Watch™ tracks production levels, export flows and trade patterns to help businesses understand global supply chains and identify sourcing opportunities.

Global supply generally meets current demand, but shortages can occur if copper or lead production drops or demand spikes. Price-Watch™ monitors these supply-demand imbalances to alert the market about potential shortages or surpluses.

Tellurium comes in various purities, typically 99.99% for electronics and lower grades for metallurgical use. Higher purity and certifications increase prices. Price-Watch™ provides separate price assessments for each grade to ensure market transparency.

Prices rise due to limited supply and longer lead times, especially in electronics and solar industries. Price-Watch™ captures these market dynamics in real-time.

Refining Tellurium is energy-intensive, so rising electricity or fuel costs increase production expenses and market prices. This is why prices in regions with cheaper electricity tend to be lower, a correlation that Price-Watch™ analyses in its price assessments & market reports.

Regional differences arise from production capacity, import dependency, shipping costs, and local demand. Currency fluctuations and regulations also influence prices. Price-Watch™ tracks prices across all major regions to highlight these differences.

Future price trends depend on global production, industrial demand, technological adoption, and export policies. Price-Watch™ regularly publishes detailed forecasts that project price movements for the next 12 months based on comprehensive analysis of supply additions, demand growth in key industries, seasonal patterns, and macroeconomic indicators. Our forecasts help businesses anticipate market conditions and plan accordingly.

Yes, accurate forecasts help companies plan procurement strategies, manage inventory, and negotiate contracts effectively. Anticipating price movements can reduce procurement risks and costs. If Price-Watch™ forecasts predict a price increase in three months, you might choose to stock up now or lock in long-term contracts at current rates, potentially saving thousands of dollars.

Events such as mining disruptions, export restrictions, geopolitical tensions, and changes in industrial demand can impact Tellurium Metal supply and pricing. These developments often influence global tungsten markets quickly. Price-Watch™ provides timely alerts when such events affect the market.

Price-Watch™ collects data from manufacturers, distributors, and buyers worldwide to publish regular price assessments, market reports, and forecasts. Our transparent methodology and comprehensive coverage make us a trusted source for understanding fair pricing and market trends in the Tellurium Metal industry.

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