According to Mysteel, China's nickel sulfate production reached 206,100 tonnes in December 2025, or 45,400 tonnes in Ni. content, representing a month-on-month decrease of 0.77%. The production comprised 0% nickel briquette/powder, 53.16% MHP, 38.92% high-grade nickel matte, 9.10% secondary nickel by raw material, and 1.79% NPI.
In December, due to low nickel prices at the beginning of the month, primary nickel producers significantly reduced production. Meanwhile, downstream ternary precursor manufacturers cut raw material purchases as demand entered a seasonal low and year-end inventory controls were implemented. These factors led to a certain degree of production reduction in the nickel sulfate sector, though the overall supply decline was limited due to the ramp-up of some newly added capacities.
Looking ahead, China's nickel sulfate production in January 2026 is projected to reach 47,600 tonnes in Ni. content, an increase of 5.04% month-on-month. This includes approximately 8,000 tonnes of nickel plate produced using nickel sulfate. The average nickel price rose significantly in January due to market concerns over tighter RKAB quotas in Indonesia, boosting demand for primary nickel and likely supporting an increase in nickel sulfate production.
Written by Cora Ji, jiruyan@mysteel.com
