- In June 2023, the Indian government-imposed export restrictions on chromium ores and concentrates, which are critical inputs for stainless steel production and other industrial applications. This regulatory shift, requiring exporters to obtain a license from the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), is expected to reduce outbound supply and prioritize domestic value addition. The move may tighten global supply, particularly impacting major importers such as China, and could influence pricing and sourcing dynamics in the international chromium market
- In June 2023, a scientific breakthrough introduced the ion enrichment chip–laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy (IEC-LIBS) method, enhancing the detection of chromium in different oxidation states in soil and water. This innovation offers a simplified, eco-friendly, and field-deployable solution for monitoring chromium contamination, aligning with growing environmental regulations. The advancement is likely to improve compliance and monitoring capabilities across industrial and environmental sectors, potentially influencing demand for safer chromium variants such as trivalent chromium
- In May 2023, African Chrome Fields announced the near completion of a USD 40 million aluminothermic smelting facility in Zimbabwe, designed to produce ferrochrome without external power sources. The adoption of proprietary reduction technology positions the plant as a sustainable and cost-effective producer, strengthening regional beneficiation efforts. This development is expected to increase Zimbabwe’s output of high-quality ferrochrome, enhance supply chain efficiency, and support growing demand from South African and international stainless-steel manufacturers
- In November 2022, Yildirim Group finalized the acquisition of Elementis plc's chromium business for USD 170 million. This acquisition includes Elementis Chromium's assets such as production facilities in Corpus Christi (TX) and Castle Hayne (NC), along with additional facilities in Amarillo (TX), Dakota (NE), and Milwaukee (WI)
- In June 2022, Tenaris announced a USD 29 million investment in its Dalmine steel shop to enhance production capacity for specialty steels high in chromium, such as chromium 13. The investment, slated for completion by early 2023, involves upgrades across three stages of the production process
