Demand for spherical graphite continues to grow rapidly for use in the anodes of lithium-ion batteries.

A number of suspensions, most notably Katanga Mining in the DRC, have contributed to a tight metal market.

The permanent magnet and catalyst sectors will continue to provide the largest markets for rare earths in the next ten years to 2026.

Production of salt is increasing to meet worldwide demand. A significant proportion of the new salt production projects due on stream by 2020 will produce salt via solar recovery methods.