Global Tungsten Carbide price increases: What’s driving the market and what it means for Harlen Supplies

Over the past 12–18 months, the global tungsten carbide market has experienced unprecedented price increases, creating significant cost pressure across industries that rely on wear‑resistant and cutting technologies. As a key material used in stone processing, mining tools, and industrial wear parts, tungsten carbide pricing movements are having a direct impact on product supply chains worldwide—including here in Southern Africa.

At Harlen Supplies, we believe it is important to keep our customers informed about the factors behind these changes and how they affect our business and the products we supply.

Key factors driving the Tungsten Carbide global price increases

1. Severe supply constraints: China continues to dominate global tungsten mining and processing, accounting for over 80% of primary supply. Since late 2024, stricter mining quotas and export controls have reduced the availability of tungsten concentrates and intermediate materials such as Ammonium Paratungstate (APT), pushing global inventories to multi‑year lows.

2. Export restrictions and geopolitical pressure: Tungsten has been classified as a strategic and “dual‑use” material due to its importance in defence, aerospace, and advanced manufacturing. New export licensing requirements and reduced Chinese export volumes have significantly tightened supply into Europe, North America, and Africa, accelerating global price escalation.

3. Rising industrial demand: Demand for tungsten carbide continues to grow across critical sectors including mining, construction, precision tooling, energy, and infrastructure development. This demand growth is colliding with limited new mining investment and declining ore grades, resulting in a structural supply‑demand imbalance rather than a short‑term price spike.

4. Escalating production and logistics costs: Increased energy costs, higher refining expenses, freight volatility, and rising carbide recycling premiums have all added to the landed cost of tungsten carbide products globally. Scrap carbide prices have risen sharply, often outpacing primary material increases, further influencing manufacturing costs.

Impact on Harlen Supplies and our customers

As a supplier of diamond tools, wire saw components, drilling consumables, and wear‑resistant products, Harlen Supplies is directly exposed to tungsten carbide pricing movements.

These increases affect:

• Manufacturing input costs from international producers

• Replacement tooling and wear part pricing

• Lead times and availability of certain carbide‑based products

Despite these pressures, Harlen Supplies continues to work closely with global manufacturing partners to optimise logistics planning and manage stock strategically to minimise disruption to our customers. Where possible, pricing adjustments are applied carefully and transparently, balancing sustainability of supply with long‑term customer relationships.

Looking ahead

Market analysts widely agree that tungsten carbide pricing volatility is likely to continue through 2026, with limited short‑term relief expected. While new mining projects outside China are under development, meaningful additional supply will take time to reach the market.

Harlen Supplies remains committed to:

• Open communication on material‑driven price movements

• Supporting customers with technical advice to optimise tool life and usage

• Investing in durable, high‑performance products that deliver maximum value per cut or application

For more information or to discuss how these changes may affect your specific applications, our technical team is available to assist.