Nickel fell to 15,085 USD/T on July 30, 2025, down 1.57% from the previous day. Over the past month, Nickel's price has fallen 0.69%, and is down 9.15% compared to the same time last year, according to trading on a contract for difference (CFD) that tracks the benchmark market for this commodity. Nickel - values, historical data, forecasts and news - updated on July of 2025.

The Report Covers Global Nickel Market Forecast & Usage by Industry and is Segmented by Application (Stainless Steel, Alloys, Plating, Casting, Batteries, and Other Applications) and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, and Middle-East and Africa). The Report Offers Market Sizes and Forecasts in Volume (kilotons) for all the Above Segments.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global nickel market size is USD 35695.2 million in 2024 and will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.00% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market of more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 14278.08 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a share of over 30% of the global market size of USD 10708.56 million.
Asia Pacific held the market of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 8209.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.0% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America market of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 1784.76 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.4% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa held the major market of around 2% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 713.90 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.7% from 2024 to 2031.
The Electrical & Electronics End-Uses held the highest nickel market revenue share in 2024

Market Dynamics of Nickel Market

Key Drivers for Nickel Market

Increased Demand for Nickel Batteries to Increase the Demand Globally: One key driver in the nickel market is increased demand for nickel batteries. It is an essential component in the manufacture of lithium-ion batteries, which power electric vehicles. As the globe moves toward greener transportation and E.V. usage grows, so does the demand for nickel. Battery manufacture is projected to be a significant driver of nickel use in the coming years. Historically, the stainless steel sector was the major consumer of nickel. Nickel gives strength and corrosion resistance to steel, making it essential for a variety of applications. As global infrastructure development and industrial activity continue, demand for stainless steel, and thus nickel, remains high.

Boom in Electric Vehicles to Propel Market Growth: Another key driver in the nickel market is the increasing demand for electric vehicles. The worldwide electric vehicle (E.V.) boom is having a big impact on the nickel market, increasing both demand and prices. As the global demand for E.V.s grows, so does the demand for nickel to build these batteries. Major mining corporations such as BHP expect nickel demand to skyrocket in the coming decades, fuelled by the E.V. revolution. This boost in demand is putting strain on nickel supply, resulting in price increases. Nickel prices have already risen in recent years, and some predict that trend to continue as E.V. usage rises. Nickel has traditionally been used primarily in the stainless steel sector. However, the E.V. industry is expected to be the primary growth driver for nickel in the future.

Restraint Factor for the Nickel Market

Environmental and Health Issues to Limit the Sales: One key restraint in the nickel market is the challenge of Environmental and health issues. Nickel is an important metal in today's world. It is an important component of stainless steel, used in a variety of sectors, and used in lithium-ion batteries that power electric vehicles (E.V.s). The worldwide nickel market is expanding as demand for E.V.s rises. However, this expansion has a substantial drawback: environmental and health risks linked with nickel mining and processing. Nickel mining can pollute the air and water via dust, acid mine drainage, and inappropriate waste management. These pollutants can degrade ecosystems, taint drinking water, and impair respiratory health in adjacent communities. Nickel extraction and refining require a lot of energy, and it frequently uses fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Trends for the Nickel Market

Increasing Demand for Electric Vehicle (EV) Battery Production: The swift expansion of the electric vehicle sector is leading to a notable increase in the need for nickel, especially high-purity Class 1 nickel utilized in lithium-ion batteries. Automobile manufacturers are pursuing reliable sources of nickel to enhance battery energy density, prolong vehicle range, and lessen dependence on cobalt. This movement is transforming global nickel supply chains, prompting mining firms and battery producers to establish strategic alliances and invest in innovative extraction and refining technologies to sustai...

In May 2024, the price of one metric ton of nickel stood at some ********* U.S. dollars. In comparison, in December 2016, the price of nickel was just below ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton. Thus, the nickel price has increased considerably in recent years, though it continuously fluctuates. In the beginning of 2022, however, the price of nickel skyrocketed due to disruptions to supply chains and a wide scarcity of raw materials and metals. Overview of nickel Discovered in 1751, nickel is a base metal with a silvery-white lustrous appearance that has a slightly golden tinge. The metal is crucial for many global industries, especially, for example, for the production of stainless-steel. Nickel is highly corrosion-resistant and is used to plate other metals in order to protect them. Because of these useful traits, nickel is used in more than ******* products worldwide, spanning from architectural, industrial, military, transportation and aerospace, marine, currency, and consumer applications. Nickel price dynamics Though nickel is the fifth most abundant element found on Earth, as with any commodity, the price of nickel can vary widely depending on global market conditions. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, exports of nickel increased dramatically, dropping the price of nickel in the mid-1990s to below production costs. Nickel production in the Western Hemisphere was reduced during that period. Prices then increased again, up to a high of ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton in May 2007. Since then, nickel prices have decreased, and have remained between a low of ***** U.S. dollars per metric ton and a high of ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton between 2016 and 2021. It is forecast that the price of nickel will amount to more than ****** U.S. dollars per metric ton in 2025.

Graph and download economic data for Global price of Nickel (PNICKUSDM) from Jan 1990 to Jun 2025 about nickel, World, and price.

In recent years, nickel prices have hit some of their all-time highest numbers, at an average of almost 26,000 U.S. dollars per metric ton throughout 2022. This was driven by a large spike in prices at the end of that year, where they peaked at 31,275 U.S. dollars per ton in mid-November. The recent surge in nickel prices has been driven by several factors, including disruptions to Russia's (the world's third-largest nickel producer) export industry following its invasion of Ukraine. Additionally, demand for nickel has grown alongside the growth of lithium-ion battery production, driven by the growth of the electronic car market. However, these recent peaks are still well below the all-time annual high of more than 37,000 U.S. dollars in 2007, where low international supply coupled with high demand from China's stainless-steel manufacturing industries caused prices to soar.

Nickel prices in , June, 2025 For that commodity indicator, we provide data from January 1960 to June 2025. The average value during that period was 9315.51 USD per metric ton with a minimum of 1631 USD per metric ton in January 1960 and a maximum of 52179.05 USD per metric ton in May 2007. | TheGlobalEconomy.com

The global nickel market size was valued at USD 37.0 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 55.5 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.6% during 2025-2033. Asia Pacific currently dominates the market, holding a significant market share of over 72.0% in 2024. Rapid technological advancements and innovation, favorable government policies and regulations, burgeoning investments in infrastructure and development projects, and the rising demand for stainless steel products are some of the major factors propelling the market.

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the global nickel market report, along with forecasts at the global, regional and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on product type, application and end-use industry.

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Nickel Market Size 2024-2028

The nickel market size is projected to increase by USD 16.55 billion, at a CAGR of 4.06% between 2023 and 2028. Market growth hinges on multiple factors, notably the surge in infrastructure development and urbanization in emerging economies, broadening electroplating applications of nickel, and the prevalence of stringent regulations. Emerging economies' focus on infrastructure drives demand for nickel in construction and urban development projects. Additionally, the expanding use of nickel in electroplating applications across industries enhances market prospects. However, stringent regulations, particularly concerning environmental and labor standards, present challenges, potentially restraining market expansion despite favorable growth drivers.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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Market Segment

The nickel (element) is intertwined with various industries, including lightweight vehicles, solar panels, and food and beverage. Alongside chromium (metal) and titanium, nickel contributes to the production of solar panels and other applications. However, concerns persist regarding sulfur dioxide emissions, urging the industry to adopt more sustainable practices in nickel and chromium extraction.

By Type

The primary nickel segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Primary nickel, a key segment in the market, encompasses various types like nickel pig iron (NPI), ferronickel, and nickel matte, each serving distinct industrial purposes. NPI, notably favored for stainless steel production, is cost-effective and widely utilized, particularly in regions like China.

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The primary nickel segment was the largest segment and was valued at USD 29.52 billion in 2018. Further, ferronickel, produced via nickel ore reduction, finds applications in stainless steel and alloy manufacturing. Noteworthy vendors such as Eramet and Vale SA invest in ferronickel production, driving market growth alongside nickel matte usage by companies like PJSC MMC Norilsk Nickel.

By Application

Stainless steel, a significant segment in the market, finds widespread use across industries like construction, automotive, healthcare, and food processing due to its corrosion resistance, strength, and durability. With nickel playing a pivotal role in stainless steel production, its alloying process accounts for a substantial portion of global stainless steel output. Key vendors like BHP Group plc and PT Indonesia Asahan Aluminum provide various nickel grades tailored for stainless steel applications, driving market growth.

By Region

APAC is estimated to contribute 93% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio's analysts have provided extensive insight into the market forecasting, detailing the regional trends and drivers influencing the market's trajectory throughout the forecast period.

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Indonesia and China are major contributors to the market in the APAC region, collectively dominating global nickel output. Indonesia's vast nickel reserves drive its significant production levels, with the country boasting the world's largest nickel reserve according to the US Geological Survey. China's robust stainless steel industry, fueled by infrastructure development and urbanization, heavily relies on nickel imports. Additionally, China's rapid progress in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing boosts demand for nickel-based batteries, further amplifying nickel's importance in the APAC market.

Market Dynamics

The market plays a pivotal role in various sectors, including the automotive industry and consumer goods industry. As a key component in lithium-ion batteries such as Nickel Cobalt Aluminum (NCA) and Nickel Manganese Cobalt (NMC), nickel powers the rise of electric cars and energy storage systems. Nickel plays a crucial role in secondary battery recycling, as it is a valuable material recovered and reused in the production of new batteries. Its applications extend to special steels, stainless steel (SS), and automobile batteries, ensuring lightweight and durable solutions. However, concerns over greenhouse emissions and health risks persist, prompting ongoing innovations in nickel usage across the construction industry, wind turbines, and medical industry.

Key Market Driver

An increase in infrastructure development and urbanization in emerging economies is the key factor driving the market. The rapid economic expansion in emerging economies such as China, India, and Southeast Asia is fueling urbanization and industrial development. Nickel, known for its corrosion resistance and strength, is witnessing heightened demand due to the surg

Global Nickel market size is expected to reach $60.69 billion by 2029 at 9.1%, segmented as by type, pentlantide (sulfide ore), laterite

The global nickel market is estimated to grow from USD 30.81 billion in 2024 to USD 64.43 billion by 2035, representing a higher CAGR of 6.94% during the forecast period.

The Nickel Marketsize was valued at USD 36.27 USD Billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 51.38 USD Billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.1 % during the forecast period.Nickel is a transition metal, with atomic number of 28, bequeaths a variety of features and abilities as they are used in different fields. This is just a name that refers to its amazing, brilliant, silvery-white attribute that doesn't even depict its strength. This is why it is always used in stainless steel manufacturing. Thanks to its corrosion resistance nickel always helps all the alloys used in aerospace, construction, and healthcare, making them stable and durable and consequently long-living. The industrial consumption of nickel is absolutely not limited to the mentioned applications of this metal, as one of the decorative features for plating of jewellery pieces and coins, as it does demonstrate its beauty. While the advantage goes beyond the specialized purpose, nickel is one of the catalysts in industrial chemistry and its significant use in battery production is on the rise as the world seeks to adopt sustainable energy strategies. Despite the fact that the prices of the nickel commodity may go up or down, nickel's everlasting paramount role is kept high, and this enables forwarding of technology and human economy growth generally around the world. Hence, its history is a story made up of adaptable and dependable elements that can forever be associated with the persistence of the basis of an epoch-making institution for current civilizations. Key drivers for this market are: Rising Demand for Stainless Steel Fueled Ni Metal Consumption. Potential restraints include: Fluctuating Prices to Hamper Market Growth.

In 2024, nickel had an average price of approximately 16,814 U.S. dollars per metric ton, a decrease of more than 4,000 U.S. dollars compared to the previous year. Top nickel producing regions In 2024, Indonesia produced the largest volume of nickel from mines in the world, totaling an estimated 2.2 million metric tons, while the Philippines produced 330,000 metric tons. Norilsk Nickel (also known as Nornickel) from Russia is one of the largest producers of nickel in the world. One of its largest mining operations is located in northern Russia within the Norilsk-Talnakh area. Nickel life cycle Nickel is a lustrous metal and is used for various applications, such as in plating metals, due to its resistance to corrosion. Nickel is not mined directly but is extracted from ores such as iron ore limonite, from which the metal can be extracted through roasting and reduction processes. Most often, nickel is used as part of nickel steels, including stainless steel, in alloys, and in electroplating. The worldwide consumption of nickel exceed three million metric tons in 2024. Historically, nickel has been used since 3500 BCE as a natural nickel-iron alloy.

The Nickel Market size is expected to reach a valuation of USD 85.0 billion in 2033 growing at a CAGR of 7.9%. The Nickel Market research report classifies Market by share, trend, demand, forecast and based on segmentation.

Nickel prices skyrocketed on the expectations of a shortage on the global market provoked by the increase in demand that outpaces the supply growth. The rebound in the steel industry and rising electric vehicle manufacturing drive nickel consumption. Pandemic-related lockdowns in the first half of 2020 and the related uncertainty led to a decrease in the global nickel mine output by -4% y-o-y. Despite this, refined nickel production increased by +2% y-o-y, boosted by the recovering demand from mid-2020 and the use of secondary smelting. Indonesia, the largest nickel ore producer worldwide, banned exports of the ore and thus achieved a record output of refined nickel.

Explore the dynamics of nickel trading on the London Metal Exchange (LME), highlighting its significance in the stainless steel and electric vehicle industries. Understand how trading strategies and market factors like supply disruptions and technological advancements affect nickel prices, while environmental considerations shape the future of this vital metal market.

Snapshot img { margin: 10px !important; } Below are some of the key findings from the primary nickel market research report

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Global primary nickel industry overview

One of the key factors contributing to the growth of the global primary nickel market is the increasing production of stainless steel. The factors contributing to the increased production of stainless steel include the use of stainless steel bars in the construction sector, escalating rate of industrialization, and rising focus on R&D. Increased investments in the building and infrastructure segment, growing demand for automobiles, high recyclability of stainless steel, and increasing popularity of food-grade stainless steel are contributing to the increased demand for primary nickel. Nickel imparts strength, temperature resistance, and corrosion-resistance to stainless steel. Therefore, the significant demand for stainless steel is likely to positively impact the growth of the primary nickel market during the forecast period. The primary nickel market is projected to grow at a CAGR of over 2% during the forecast period.

Nickel recycling is one of the major trends being witnessed in the global primary nickel market. Nickel is a high-value, non-ferrous metal like copper, aluminum, and zinc. Due to its high value as a commodity, efforts focused on efficient recovery and recycling of the metal are in place. The extensive use of the metal in stainless steel and nickel alloys increases the recyclability factor of nickel. The enhanced durability of nickel-based materials implies that such materials can be successfully converted into high-quality alternatives. The recycling of nickel is a prospective solution to meet the growing demand for metal in various end-user segments.

Top primary nickel companies covered in this market research report

The primary nickel market is moderately fragmented with multiple players occupying the market share. By offering a complete analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and with information on the products offered by the companies, this primary nickel industry analysis report is designed to aid clients to identify new growth opportunities and make informed business decisions.

The report offers a complete analysis of various companies including:

Anglo American
BHP
Glencore
Norilsk Nickel
Vale

Primary nickel market segmentation based on geographic regions

Americas
APAC
EMEA

The APAC region will account for the highest incremental growth of this market throughout the forecast period. The economic development in emerging countries such as China and India will propel the growth of the market during the forecast period.

Primary nickel market segmentation based on end users

Engineering
Metal goods
Transport
Tubular products
electrical and electronics
Architecture, building, construction

The engineering segment accounted for the significant share of the nickel metal market during 2017. Nickel is used in the production of food preparation equipment, medical equipment, power generation equipment, and electroplating tools.

Moreover, nickel coatings are used in various industries such as automotive, aerospace, and communication. These factors are driving the growth of the market. Additionally, the report will also provide an accurate prediction of the contribution of the various end-user segments to the growth of the primary nickel market size.

Key highlights of the global primary nickel market for the forecast years 2018-2022:

CAGR of the market during the forecast period 2018-2022
Detailed information on factors that will accelerate the growth of the primary nickel market during the next five years
Precise estimation of the global primary nickel market size and its contribution to the parent market
Accurate predictions on upcoming trends and changes in consumer behavior
The growth of the primary nickel industry across the Americas, APAC, and EMEA
A thorough analysis of the market’s competitive landscape and detailed information on several vendors
Comprehensive details on the factors that will challenge the growth of the primary nickel companies

We can help! Our analysts can customize this market research report to meet your requirements. Get in touch

Primary Nickel Market Outlook

The global primary nickel market size is projected to reach approximately USD 45 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.5% from its 2023 valuation of USD 26.5 billion. This robust growth is primarily driven by increasing demand from the stainless steel and battery industries. With the burgeoning need for sustainable and resilient materials in various industries, primary nickel has become an indispensable component due to its versatile applications and durability. This escalating demand is bolstered by advancements in technology and the rising adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), which significantly rely on nickel-containing batteries, thus propelling the market forward.

One of the primary growth factors for the primary nickel market is its critical role in the production of stainless steel, which constitutes the largest segment of nickel usage. Stainless steel is indispensable in numerous industries, including construction, automotive, and consumer goods, attributing to its corrosion resistance and strength. The global infrastructure boom, coupled with the urbanization trend, particularly in emerging economies, has led to an unprecedented demand for stainless steel. Moreover, the increasing focus on sustainable construction practices further underscores the demand for nickel, as stainless steel is a recyclable material that supports long-term durability and reduced environmental impact.

The escalating global push towards clean energy solutions and electric vehicle adoption is another significant factor driving the primary nickel market. Nickel plays a crucial role in the production of high-density batteries, enhancing their capacity and efficiency. With governments worldwide implementing stringent regulations to curb carbon emissions, the shift towards electric vehicles is becoming a dominant trend. As a result, the demand for nickel in the battery segment is witnessing a surge, supported by substantial investments in battery manufacturing and technological innovations aimed at improving battery life and performance. This transition also aligns with consumers' evolving preferences for sustainable and environmentally friendly transportation solutions.

In addition to these, the rising demand for nickel in the electronics and aerospace industries is contributing to market growth. Nickel's properties, such as thermal resistance and electrical conductivity, make it an ideal choice for various electronic applications. The aerospace industry, which demands materials that can withstand extreme conditions, also relies heavily on nickel alloys. These alloys are used in jet engines and other critical components due to their ability to maintain structural integrity under high temperatures and pressures. As these industries expand, the primary nickel market is poised to benefit significantly from their growth trajectories.

Regionally, Asia Pacific holds the lion's share of the primary nickel market, driven by rapid industrialization and a strong manufacturing base, particularly in China and India. The region is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period, supported by substantial investments in infrastructure development and the automotive sector. North America and Europe are also significant markets, with steady demand from the automotive and aerospace industries. Technological advancements and increased emphasis on research and development activities in these regions further propel market growth. In contrast, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are anticipated to witness moderate growth, primarily due to their nascent industrialization stages and limited nickel production capabilities.

Product Type Analysis

The primary nickel market, segmented by product type, encompasses ferronickel, nickel pig iron (NPI), electrolytic nickel, and other variants. Ferronickel accounts for a substantial portion of the market, driven by its extensive use in stainless steel manufacturing. The ferronickel segment is characterized by its cost-effectiveness and efficiency in delivering nickel units for steel production. As global construction activities intensify, the demand for stainless steel, and consequently ferronickel, is expected to witness a significant rise. Additionally, technological advancements in ferronickel production processes are enhancing its quality and performance, thereby bolstering its market position.

Nickel pig iron, often considered a lower-cost substitute for refined nickel, is primarily used in the production of stainless steel. The rise of NPI is notably linked to Chin

Nano Nickel Market Outlook

The global nano nickel market size is projected to grow from approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 to USD 2.1 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during the forecast period. This robust growth is driven by increasing demand across various industries such as electronics, automotive, and aerospace, which utilize nano nickel for its superior properties like enhanced strength, corrosion resistance, and electrical conductivity. The burgeoning adoption of advanced materials in energy storage solutions and the rising demand for efficient chemical catalysts are also significant contributors to the market's expansion.

One of the most compelling growth factors in the nano nickel market is its application in the electronics industry. The miniaturization of electronic components, driven by the demand for smaller, faster, and more efficient devices, necessitates materials with superior performance characteristics. Nano nickel, with its excellent electrical conductivity and thermal stability, is an ideal candidate for such applications. Furthermore, advancements in nanotechnology are expanding the capabilities of nano nickel, making it indispensable in the development of next-generation electronic devices. The integration of nano nickel in printed electronics and flexible circuits is also gaining traction, indicating promising growth prospects for the market.

The energy storage sector represents another critical growth avenue for the nano nickel market. As the world transitions towards renewable energy sources, the need for efficient and high-capacity energy storage systems becomes paramount. Nano nickel is being increasingly utilized in the production of high-performance batteries, including nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) and nickel-cadmium (NiCd) batteries. Its ability to improve the energy density and charge-discharge cycle of these batteries is a key factor driving its adoption. Moreover, the ongoing research and development efforts aimed at enhancing the performance of nano nickel-based batteries are expected to unlock new growth opportunities in the coming years.

In the medical field, nano nickel is gaining importance due to its unique properties that lend themselves well to various biomedical applications. Its antimicrobial properties make it a valuable component in medical coatings and devices. Additionally, nano nickel’s biocompatibility and stability have spurred its use in drug delivery systems and diagnostic applications. As healthcare technologies advance, the demand for materials that can meet the stringent requirements of medical applications is likely to boost the growth of the nano nickel market. The increasing investment in healthcare infrastructure worldwide also contributes to the positive outlook of this segment.

Regionally, Asia Pacific is expected to hold the largest share of the nano nickel market, driven by rapid industrialization, a flourishing electronics industry, and substantial investments in renewable energy projects. Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea are leading the charge with significant developments in nanotechnology and its applications across various industries. North America and Europe are also significant contributors to the market, with a strong focus on innovation and sustainable development. The presence of major automotive and aerospace manufacturers in these regions further augments the demand for nano nickel. Meanwhile, Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are gradually emerging as potential markets, benefiting from increasing industrial activities and favorable government policies.

Product Type Analysis

The product type segment of the nano nickel market can be broadly categorized into powder, dispersion, pellets, and others. Nano nickel powder is anticipated to dominate this segment due to its widespread application across various industries, including electronics, energy storage, and healthcare. The powder form is highly sought after for its ease of incorporation into different matrices and its ability to enhance the properties of the base materials. In the electronics industry, nano nickel powder is extensively used in the fabrication of conductive inks and coatings, which are essential components of modern-day electronics.

Dispersion forms of nano nickel are gaining traction in the market, particularly in applications that require uniform distribution of particles, such as in coatings and paints. Dispersions are preferred in the chemical industry for catalysis purposes due to their improved reactivity and stability. The increasing focus on na

This statistic depicts the average monthly prices for nickel from January 2014 through June 2025. In June 2025, the average monthly price for nickel stood at ********* nominal U.S. dollars per metric ton.