China dominates the global fluorspar industry. In addition to producing the bulk of the world's supply (3.3m tonnes in 2011, according to estimates by the US Geological Survey), it has also become the largest global hub for the production and consumption of fluorochemicals.While previously a source of low-cost, bulk commodities, in recent years the country has reversed its former 'doors open' mineral stance; by imposing export restrictions on certain key steelmaking raw materials (including fluorspar) in favour of its domestic industries.These restrictions were the subject of a World Trade Organization (WTO) complaint brought by Europe, Mexico and the US, which in January 2012 was upheld by the WTO's appellate body. Now China will have to bring its policies into line with its WTO obligations - but it remains to be seen what shape China's new export system will take.
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