Home Mining Minerals & Metals Nickel Market Size, Growth & Forecast Report by 2033

Nickel Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Type (Wrought Nickel, Nickel-Iron Alloys, Nickel-Copper Alloys, Nickel-Molybdenum Alloys, Nickel-Chromium Alloys, Others), By Applications (Stainless Steel, Batteries, Alloy Production, Electroplating, Others) and By Region(North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, LATAM) Forecasts, 2025-2033

Report Code: SRMM56817DR
Last Updated : Jan 24, 2025
Author : Vrushali Bothare
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Nickel Market Size

The global nickel market size was valued at USD 43.16 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow from USD 46.39 billion in 2025 to reach USD 82.59 billion in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% over the forecast period (2025 – 2033).

Nickel is a naturally occurring, lustrous, silvery-white metal with a slight golden hue. Nickel possesses five stable isotopes, remains solid at room temperature, and has a boiling point of 2730°C and a melting point of 1455°C. It is ferromagnetic, hard, resistant to corrosion and rust, and ductile. Being a naturally occurring element, nickel must be extracted through mining.

Nickel is acquired through a method known as extractive metallurgy. This process involves separating the desired metal from its ore and purifying it to achieve a higher level of purity. An ore is a naturally occurring rock found deep beneath the earth's surface, containing valuable minerals that can be mined, refined, and sold for profit. Typically, once nickel has been refined, it can be machined into various forms, including bars, rods, plates, sheets, and tubing. Several techniques are employed to create these shapes.

Nickel's primary ores are categorized into two main types, i.e., laterites and magmatic sulfides. The global market is driven by its extensive use across various industries, particularly stainless steel production, which accounts for nearly 70% of nickel demand. Geographically, the nickel market is dominated by countries rich in reserves, like Indonesia, the Philippines, and Russia.

The below table shows U.S. nickel production (mt)from the 2019-2023 period

Year 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023
Nickel price in U.S. dollars per metric ton 13,500 16,700 18,400 17,500 17,000

Source: Annual Reports, Investor Presentations & Straits Analysis

Market Trends

Increasing focus on green nickel production

The global market is shifting toward "green nickel" production, driven by sustainability demands and the rise of electric vehicles (EVs). Producers are adopting eco-friendly methods like hydrometallurgical processes and high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) to minimize carbon emissions. Companies such as Vale and BHP are integrating renewable energy into operations to meet the demand for low-carbon Ni. Indonesia, leveraging its vast laterite ore reserves, is attracting investments in green nickel projects for EV batteries.

  • In September 2024, Wyloo Metals partnered with Metalshub to enhance transparency in CO2 emissions. Utilizing Metalshub’s platform, Wyloo aims to sell low-carbon nickel products while restarting operations in Kambalda, Australia, reinforcing the market’s focus on sustainable Ni production.

Nickel Market Growth Factors

Surging demand for electric vehicle (EV) batteries 

The shift to electric mobility is a key growth driver for the nickel market, with nickel-rich chemistries like NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) and NCA (Nickel-Cobalt-Aluminum) dominating lithium-ion battery production. Nickel’s high energy density enhances EV performance and range, fueling its demand.

  • The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports global EV sales exceeded 10 million units in 2022, with growth accelerating due to government subsidies and carbon neutrality goals.

Therefore, companies like Tesla and CATL are ramping up battery production, driving robust demand for Class I Ni, which is critical for high-purity battery manufacturing.

  • For instance, in July 2024, Panasonic Energy partnered with Australia’s CSIRO to advance Ni laterite processing technologies for lithium-ion battery applications, supporting sustainable growth in the EV sector.

Growth in stainless steel production

Stainless steel, accounting for over 65% of global nickel demand, remains a significant growth driver. Nickel’s ability to enhance corrosion resistance, durability, and strength makes it indispensable in construction, automotive, and appliances. Rapid industrialization in emerging markets such as China, India, and Indonesia is propelling stainless steel production.

Indonesia, for instance, is expanding its stainless steel capacity alongside Ni mining. Likewise, government initiatives like China’s infrastructure programs and India’s "Make in India" campaign further bolster stainless steel demand.

  • For instance, in October 2024, Jindal Stainless acquired a 100% stake in Sulawesi Nickel Processing Industries Holdings, enabling a joint venture in Indonesia to develop and operate a stainless-steel melt shop, highlighting the sector's growth potential.

Restraining Factors

Price volatility and supply chain risks

Nickel prices are highly volatile, influenced by market imbalances, geopolitical tensions, and speculative trading. Disruptions like the Russia-Ukraine conflict in 2022 caused sharp price hikes, as Russia is a leading global Ni producer. Likewise, Indonesia’s export ban on unprocessed nickel ore has strained global supply chains, increasing reliance on domestic processing capabilities.

This volatility creates uncertainty for end-users, especially in the stainless steel and battery industries, where nickel significantly impacts production costs.

  • For example, in January 2024, the US Stainless Steel CR Coil market saw a steep decline due to flat demand and oversupply of nickel and iron ore. The global Ni surplus has raised concerns for stainless steel manufacturers as production costs continue to drop.

Market Opportunities

Expansion of nickel recycling initiatives

The growing focus on sustainability has turned nickel recycling into a significant opportunity within the global market. Recycling Ni from end-of-life products like stainless-steel scrap and spent EV batteries helps reduce dependence on primary nickel sources, which are subject to price fluctuations and supply chain risks.

This practice not only addresses environmental concerns but also supports the circular economy. Companies such as Glencore and Umicore are ramping up their recycling efforts to recover nickel from battery scrap, driving sustainable practices in the industry.

  • For instance, Nth Cycle, a US-based company, has pioneered the production of premium Ni-cobalt MHP. Nth Cycle’s solution aligns with the Inflation Reduction Act, earning a $7.2 million tax credit for its Ohio facility.

This initiative highlights the growing role of nickel recycling in meeting sustainability goals and regulatory standards, creating substantial market opportunities.

Study Period 2021-2033 CAGR 7.5%
Historical Period 2021-2023 Forecast Period 2025-2033
Base Year 2024 Base Year Market Size USD 43.16 Billion
Forecast Year 2033 Forecast Year Market Size USD 82.59 Billion
Largest Market Asia Pacific Fastest Growing Market Europe
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Regional Insights

Asia Pacific: Dominant region with 65.25% market share

Asia-Pacific is the leading player in the global market, driven by its dominant consumption in stainless steel production and battery manufacturing. China, Indonesia, and Japan are key contributors. China remains the largest global consumer, accounting for over 50% of Ni demand due to its extensive stainless-steel production and growing EV battery manufacturing capacity.

Furthermore, Indonesia has emerged as a top nickel producer, particularly in Ni pig iron (NPI), and has become a key hub for nickel processing. The country’s ban on raw Ni ore exports has sparked significant investments in local smelting and refining facilities, including high-pressure acid leaching (HPAL) plants to produce battery-grade nickel for EVs.

  • In July 2022, EPI and Shell Overseas Investments B.V. entered a joint venture to develop renewable energy projects in the Philippines, establishing Greenlight Renewables Holdings Inc. (GRHI). This partnership reflects growing regional investment in sustainable energy solutions, further supporting nickel demand for green technologies.

Europe: Rapid growth in Germany, Norway, and France

Europe ranks as the second-fastest-growing region in the global market, spurred by the region’s transition to renewable energy and electric mobility. The European Union’s (EU) carbon neutrality goal for 2050 and the European Green Deal have significantly increased demand for nickel-rich batteries, especially for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. Countries such as Germany, Norway, and France are leading the EV transition, aided by government incentives and growing consumer demand.

Moreover, the EU’s investments in the battery value chain, including gigafactories and strategic raw material partnerships, are driving the region's nickel market growth. Companies like Umicore are advancing Ni recycling technologies, promoting a circular economy, and reducing reliance on primary nickel sources. These initiatives position Europe as a key player in shaping the future of the global market.

Countries Insights

  • Philippines –The Philippines is one of the top nickel exporters, primarily exporting raw ore to China for processing. Its abundant Ni deposits in Mindanao and Palawan make it a significant contributor. However, the industry faces environmental concerns, as mining operations sometimes lead to deforestation and pollution. With fluctuating regulatory policies, the country’s role in global nickel production continues to evolve.
  • Russia –Russia ranks among the world’s leading nickel producers, with major operations run by Norilsk Nickel. The country benefits from vast deposits in Siberia, where high-quality Ni is extracted. Russia also focuses on refining, making it a key supplier to Europe and Asia. However, geopolitical tensions, such as sanctions, may disrupt market stability and international trade in the future.
  • Australia –Australia is a major player in the global market, contributing large amounts of mined nickel. It has diversified its nickel production through both traditional mining and newer mining techniques. The country’s investment in the clean energy transition, including partnerships in Ni battery production, boosts its position. The Australian government also supports industry growth with favorable policies for mineral exploration.
  • Canada –Canada is home to some of the world’s highest-grade nickel deposits, primarily in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. With increasing demand for EV batteries, Canada’s nickel industry is expanding to meet both domestic and international demand. The country’s stable political environment and established mining infrastructure provide an attractive investment climate for nickel exploration and production.
  • Brazil –Brazil holds substantial nickel reserves, particularly in the Carajás region. Brazilian Ni is known for its high quality, and the country exports a significant portion to Europe and Asia. However, Brazil’s nickel sector faces challenges related to logistical bottlenecks and local community concerns. Despite this, the country remains an important player due to its substantial reserves and competitive production costs.
  • China –China is the world’s largest consumer of nickel, particularly for its rapidly expanding EV and stainless steel industries. It is a key player in the global market, not for production but for processing, refining, and consumption. China’s demand for high-purity Ni, driven by battery production, has reshaped global supply chains, and its strategic stockpiling of the metal influences market pricing.
  • Finland – Finland is a significant European producer of nickel, with mining operations such as those in the Kevitsa mine. The country has also focused on refining nickel to high standards for battery use, making it a crucial player in Europe’s green transition. Finland’s stable governance and commitment to sustainability make it an attractive location for nickel investments, especially for EV manufacturers.
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Nickel Market Segmentation Analysis

By Type 

Ni-chromium alloys dominate the global market due to their versatility and ability to perform under high temperatures and oxidative environments. With growing demand from the aerospace and automotive industries, particularly for gas turbines, jet engines, and emission control systems, this segment is expected to grow steadily. The shift toward renewable energy, where these alloys are used in power plant components and heat exchangers, further boosts their relevance. Moreover, advancements in additive manufacturing (3D printing) have increased the usage of Ni-chromium alloys for producing complex high-performance components, solidifying their position in the market.

By Application

The stainless-steel segment dominates the global market, driven by its extensive use in construction, industrial machinery, and transportation. Rapid industrialization and urbanization in emerging markets such as China and India are propelling demand for stainless steel as governments invest in large-scale infrastructure projects. Moreover, the growing automotive and food processing industries rely on stainless steel for its corrosion resistance and hygienic properties. As global efforts to reduce carbon emissions increase, demand for Ni-containing stainless steel in renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar panel frames and wind turbines, is expected to grow, solidifying its importance in the nickel market.

Market Size By Type

Market Size By Type
Wrought Nickel Nickel-Iron Alloys Nickel-Copper Alloys Nickel-Molybdenum Alloys Nickel-Chromium Alloys Others

Company Market Share

In response to the growing demand across critical end-use industries such as stainless steel, batteries, and alloys, companies in the global nickel market are strategically expanding their investments. Key players are ramping up production capacities through the optimization of mining operations and the integration of advanced refining technologies.

The focus is being placed on increasing the output of battery-grade nickel, which is essential for energy storage solutions and EV production. Moreover, firms are strengthening their presence in key regions, such as Southeast Asia, to secure a steady supply of Ni for the rapidly expanding EV and renewable energy sectors.

Tsingshan Holding Group: An emerging player in the nickel market

Tsingshan Holding Group, founded in 2003, is a leading manufacturer of stainless steel products, including seamless and welded pipes, tubes, and pipe fittings. Headquartered in Wenzhou, China, the company has established itself as a key player in the global stainless steel industry.

Tsingshan's products are widely used in various sectors such as shipbuilding, pressure vessels, power station boilers, coal chemical, petrochemical, paper, automotive, and aerospace industries. The company is recognized for its high-quality products and has become a qualified supplier for major corporations like Sinopec, PetroChina, and CNOOC.

Recent Developments

  • In October 2023, Tsingshan Holding Group was selected to build a steel industry complex in Iraq's Basra in early 2024. The complex will be built on the site of the General Steel Company (GSC), which was Iraq's main steel producer before the 2003 US-led invasion.

List of key players in Nickel Market

  1. Vale S.A.
  2. Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel)
  3. BHP Group
  4. Glencore Plc
  5. Anglo American Plc
  6. Jinchuan Group International Resources Co. Ltd.
  7. Sherritt International Corporation
  8. Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.
  9. Eramet Group
  10. South32 Limited
  11. MCC (Metallurgical Corporation of China) Limited
  12. Tsingshan Holding Group
  13. Poseidon Nickel Limited
Nickel Market Share of Key Players

Recent Developments

  • October 2024 - State-owned gold miner Aneka Tambang (Antam), through its subsidiary Gag Nikel (PTGN), acquired a 30 percent stake in Newton International Investment Pte. Ltd. (NII), a subsidiary of China’s Eternal Tsingshan Group Limited (ETGL), for $102.5 million (Rp 1.60 trillion).
  • September 2024 - Nickel Industries completed the acquisition of a 51% stake in the Siduarsi nickel-cobalt project in Indonesia. The acquisition was contingent on an initial mineral resource at the project of more than 50 million dry metric tons (dmt) at 1.1% Ni. Nickel Industries announced an initial mineral resource of 52 million dmt of 1.1% nickel and 0.1% cobalt, equivalent to 561,000 tons of contained nickel metal and 31,000 tons of cobalt.

Analyst Opinion

As per our analyst, the global nickel market is experiencing a transformative shift, driven by surging demand from key industries such as stainless steel, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and renewable energy. Nickel’s critical role in lithium-ion battery chemistries places it at the heart of the ongoing energy transition, fueling its importance for sustainable technologies. Rising urbanization and infrastructure development, particularly in emerging economies like China and India, continue to bolster demand for Ni in stainless steel production.

However, the market faces challenges such as price volatility, environmental concerns associated with mining practices, and geopolitical disruptions that impact supply chains. Despite these hurdles, growing investments in sustainable mining practices, recycling, and advanced processing technologies reflect the industry's proactive approach to meet the evolving needs of end-use applications and global sustainability objectives.


Nickel Market Segmentations

By Type (2021-2033)

  • Wrought Nickel
  • Nickel-Iron Alloys
  • Nickel-Copper Alloys
  • Nickel-Molybdenum Alloys
  • Nickel-Chromium Alloys
  • Others

By Applications (2021-2033)

  • Stainless Steel
  • Batteries
  • Alloy Production
  • Electroplating
  • Others

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the market value of the Nickel Market?
The global nickel market size was valued at USD 43.16 billion in 2024 and is expected to grow from USD 46.39 billion in 2025 to reach USD 82.59 billion in 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.5% over the forecast period (2025 – 2033).
The stainless-steel segment dominates the global market, driven by its extensive use in construction, industrial machinery, and transportation. Rapid industrialization and urbanization in emerging markets such as China and India are propelling demand for stainless steel as governments invest in large-scale infrastructure projects.
The surging demand for electric vehicle (EV) batteries and growth in stainless steel production are expected to drive the adoption of nickel.
The leading manufacturers in the global market are Vale S.A., Norilsk Nickel (Nornickel), BHP Group, Glencore Plc, Anglo American Plc, Jinchuan Group International Resources Co. Ltd., Sherritt International Corporation, Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd., Eramet Group, South32 Limited, MCC (Metallurgical Corporation of China) Limited, Tsingshan Holding Group, Poseidon Nickel Limited etc.
Asia-Pacific is the leading player in the global nickel market, driven by its dominant consumption in stainless steel production and battery manufacturing. China, Indonesia, and Japan are key contributors.


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