Magnesium Metal Price Holds Steady at 2240–2250 USD/t FOB Tianjin on Oct 9, 2026
Oct 9, 2026 | ZhenAn International Co., Limited
China's magnesium metal export market enters the second week of October with unchanged price levels. The single available quotation for high-purity magnesium remains flat against the previous session, reflecting a balanced supply-demand dynamic at the Tianjin port. Buyers with Q4 procurement plans should note that the current FOB range provides a stable baseline for contract negotiations.
Current Magnesium Metal Price
The following table presents the latest export quotation for magnesium metal from China on October 9, 2026:
| Variety | Specification | Price (USD/t) | Change | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Magnesium Metal | Mg99.9% | 2240–2250 | -- | Tianjin FOB, non-pickled |
Note: Prices are quoted in U.S. dollars per metric ton, FOB Tianjin port, for non-pickled ingot form. Data date: October 9, 2026.
The Mg99.9% grade represents the standard high-purity magnesium widely traded in international markets. The narrow 10-dollar spread between the low and high ends of the range indicates tight price alignment among exporters, with limited dispersion across offering parties.
Magnesium Metal Price Trend vs Previous
On October 9, 2026, the magnesium metal export quotation remains unchanged from the previous trading day. The Mg99.9% grade holds at 2240–2250 USD/t FOB Tianjin, with the change column marked "--" indicating no directional movement.
This flat session follows the price consolidation observed in recent weeks. The unchanged level suggests that export-oriented magnesium producers are maintaining disciplined offering strategies amid stable raw material costs for dolomite and ferrosilicon, both key inputs in the Pidgeon process used to produce primary magnesium in China.
International buyers should interpret the steady quote as a signal of balanced availability rather than accumulation of upward or downward pressure. With the year-end procurement season approaching, the current plateau may provide a reasonable entry window for those seeking to lock in Q4 delivery terms.
Grade and Market Context
Magnesium metal traded under the Mg99.9% specification conforms to the GB/T 3499 standard for primary magnesium. This grade contains a minimum of 99.9 percent magnesium by weight, with controlled limits on iron, silicon, nickel, copper, and aluminum impurities.
The non-pickled condition specified in the quotation refers to ingots as-cast from the reduction retorts, without subsequent surface cleaning or machining. This form is standard for bulk export shipments and is typically remelted or alloyed by downstream processors. Buyers requiring pickled or machined surfaces for direct machining applications should specify this at the inquiry stage, as additional processing may affect lead time and unit cost.
China accounts for the majority of global primary magnesium production, with output concentrated in Shaanxi, Shanxi, and Ningxia provinces. The Tianjin FOB basis used in this quotation represents the main export channel for seaborne shipments to Asian, European, and North American destinations.
Magnesium Ingot vs Magnesium Powder: A Detailed Comparison
While the October 9 quotation covers magnesium ingot in non-pickled form, buyers should understand the distinction between ingot and powder presentations, as each serves different downstream applications. The following comparison outlines the key differences across five dimensions:
| Dimension | Magnesium Ingot (Non-Pickled) | Magnesium Powder |
|---|---|---|
| Physical Form | Solid cast blocks, typically 7.5 kg or 15 kg each | Fine granular or flake particulate, mesh-sized |
| Typical Purity | Mg99.9% (as quoted) | Mg99.8% to Mg99.95%, depending on atomizing process |
| Primary Applications | Aluminum alloying, die-casting feedstock, steel desulfurization | Pyrotechnics, chemical synthesis, powder metallurgy, grain refinement |
| Standard Packaging | Palletized in steel drums or bulk containers, seaworthy for FOB | Sealed drums with inert atmosphere, moisture-proof bags |
| Handling & Safety | Standard heavy-lift cargo, avoid moisture contact | Hazardous classification (flammable solid), requires anti-static and moisture controls |
Magnesium ingot remains the dominant form in international trade volume, particularly for aluminum producers who remelt ingot to produce magnesium-aluminum alloys for automotive and aerospace components. Magnesium powder, by contrast, commands a niche position in specialized chemical and metallurgical applications where high surface area is essential.
Buyers should confirm the required physical form at the outset of negotiations, as switching between ingot and powder after order placement is generally impractical due to differing production lines and safety-handling infrastructure at both the supplier and receiver ends.
What Buyers Should Check Before Ordering Magnesium Metal
1. Confirm specification alignment: Verify whether your process requires Mg99.9% or can accept Mg99.95% or Mg99.8%. Higher purity generally commands a premium, while slightly lower grades may offer cost savings for non-critical alloying. 2. Clarify surface condition: The quoted price is for non-pickled ingot. If your application requires pickled, machined, or special surface finish, request a separate quotation to avoid receiving material that requires additional in-house processing. 3. Validate packaging and loading: Standard FOB Tianjin shipments use seaworthy pallets or steel drums. If you require container stuffing, strapping specifications, or special marking, communicate these requirements before contract finalization. 4. Check import clearance requirements: Magnesium metal may be subject to anti-dumping duties or licensing requirements in certain destinations. Confirm your local tariff classification and any applicable trade measures before fixing the purchase price. 5. Assess delivery schedule against your consumption plan: Current quotations are valid for prompt shipment subject to port availability. If your production schedule requires just-in-time delivery, discuss vessel booking timelines with the supplier's logistics team. 6. Request certificate of analysis (CoA): A pre-shipment CoA verifying chemical composition against GB/T 3499 or ASTM B92 ensures that received material meets your quality system requirements.
FAQ
What is the typical lot size for magnesium metal export orders?
Standard export lots range from 20 to 25 metric tons, matching a single 20-foot container load. Partial container loads are possible but may incur higher per-ton freight and handling charges. Full container loads (FCL) typically secure the most competitive FOB rates and are preferred by most regular buyers.
Can magnesium ingot be supplied in shapes other than standard blocks?
Yes, subject to prior arrangement and minimum order quantities. Alternative forms include T-bar, waffle ingot, and continuous-cast bar. Each form requires dedicated mold sets and may carry a tooling adjustment. Lead times for non-standard shapes are typically 2–4 weeks longer than standard block ingot.
How should magnesium metal be stored after receipt?
Store in a dry, covered warehouse on non-combustible flooring. Keep away from moisture, acids, and oxidizing agents. Ingot stacks should be on pallets to prevent ground contact. Although solid ingot is less reactive than powder, prolonged exposure to humid conditions can produce surface oxidation that may affect remelt yield.
Is the quoted FOB price inclusive of Chinese export duties?
The FOB Tianjin quotation covers delivery onto the vessel at the port of loading, including all Chinese-side export formalities. Any export duty, license fee, or inspection charge applicable at the time of shipment is typically borne by the seller and embedded in the quoted price. Buyers should confirm the current duty status at the time of inquiry, as export tax policies may be adjusted by authorities.
For further questions about grades, packaging, or delivery terms, feel free to reach out.
What packaging and shipping compliance requirements apply to magnesium metal exports?
Magnesium metal ingot is classified as a flammable solid under international dangerous goods regulations. For export shipment, it must be packed in UN-certified steel drums or specially approved bulk containers with moisture barriers and secured on seaworthy pallets. Each package requires proper dangerous goods labeling, including Class 4.1 flammable solid markings and relevant emergency response information. The shipper must provide a Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), dangerous goods declaration, and packing certificate. Buyers should confirm that their receiving port and inland transport providers are licensed to handle Class 4.1 cargo, as not all warehouses and trucking operators accept flammable solids.
What is the HS code for magnesium metal, and what customs documentation is required for import?
Primary magnesium metal ingot typically falls under HS code 8104.11, although the exact classification may vary by destination country depending on purity and form. Import documentation generally includes a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, bill of lading, and a certificate of analysis verifying composition against GB/T 3499 or ASTM B92. Some jurisdictions require additional declarations for strategic metals or may impose anti-dumping duties. Buyers should verify the precise tariff code and any applicable trade remedies with their customs broker before shipment, as incorrect classification can result in clearance delays, penalties, or unexpected duty liabilities.
Key Takeaways
- China's Mg99.9% magnesium metal export price holds steady at 2240–2250 USD/t FOB Tianjin on October 9, 2026, with no change from the previous session.
- The narrow 10-dollar price band reflects tight alignment among exporters and balanced supply-demand conditions.
- Non-pickled ingot is the standard export form; buyers needing alternative surface finishes or powder form should specify requirements upfront.
- Q4 procurement planning remains viable at current levels, with the year-end delivery window now open for booking.
- Standard lot sizes align with 20-foot container capacity; buyers should confirm import clearance and tariff status before fixing contracts.
Get Your Tailored Quotation
Ready to place a magnesium metal order for Q4 delivery? Share your target grade, volume, and destination port, and our team will prepare a firm offer aligned with the October 9 price level. We handle container booking, pre-shipment inspection, and full export documentation to streamline your procurement process.
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