U.S. exports of Nickel Mattes (SITC 28421) totaled $34K in August 2026, exported to 2 countries.
Last updated: August 2026 dataNickel matte is a smelter intermediate produced by partial processing of nickel sulfide concentrates, containing nickel, copper, and sulfur in varying proportions depending on the smelting operation and target product. It occupies a critical position in the nickel refining chain between concentrate and finished refined nickel or nickel chemicals, and is traded internationally between smelters and refineries that specialize in different stages of processing. The nickel and copper content of the matte, along with penalty elements such as arsenic or lead, are the primary determinants of its commercial value and refining cost.
AI-written summary of the official U.S. Census Bureau trade figures on this page — verify before relying on it.
Nickel matte is priced based on its payable nickel and copper content, typically referenced to LME prices for each metal, minus treatment and refining charges negotiated between the seller and the receiving refinery. Penalty deductions apply for impurities such as arsenic, lead, or bismuth that increase refining complexity and cost.
Nickel matte is a sulfide-based smelter product, distinguishable from nickel oxide sinter (a calcined intermediate from laterite processing) and from ferronickel (an iron-nickel alloy produced directly from laterite ores for stainless steel use). Each intermediate has a different chemical form, nickel content range, and downstream application, and they are classified under separate SITC and HTS headings. Correct identification of the product form is essential for accurate classification at entry.
Basic heading 199 of 239 in section 2
Basic heading 28421 · $34K of $7.8B
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Exports · August 2026
destination
Hungary and Italy together take 100% of it.
customs district
Census does not publish district detail for this classification system.
origin
Census does not publish state detail for this classification system.
entry
Census does not publish port detail for this classification system.
ImportsExports
Imports
—YoY · free account
Exports
$34KYoY · free account
Low of 3 reported months · imports
Low · free accountOver the twelve months to August 2026, the U.S. exported $500K of Nickel Mattes.
Fewer than 6 of the last 12 months reported trade, or the latest month was under $500K; the trend chart is not shown for thin series.
Through August 2026 · imports 3 of 12 months reported, exports 9 of 12 months reported. Source: U.S. Census Bureau.