China’s Silver Export Ban Shakes Global Precious Metals Market
China's impending silver export ban, effective January 1, 2026, will remove approximately 13% of global supply overnight. The policy, enacted under Announcement No. 68, requires exporters to meet stringent production and capital requirements—80 tonnes annual output and millions in reserves—effectively sidelining smaller players.
As the world's second-largest silver producer and controller of 60-70% of refining capacity, China's move grants it unprecedented pricing power. The ban follows October's temporary export surge, suggesting strategic stockpiling. Precious metals markets now face structural shortages, with Ripple effects across industrial and investment demand.
Market analysts anticipate volatility in silver futures and mining stocks, while crypto assets like BTC and ETH may benefit as hedges against commodity supply shocks. Exchange platforms from Binance to Bybit could see increased metals-related derivative activity as traders seek alternative exposures.
