Sibanye-Stillwater has petitioned the US government to impose tariffs on Russian palladium imports, a move aimed at protecting domestic supply but one that could amplify price fluctuations in the already volatile platinum group metals (PGMs) market.
Reuters reports that the Johannesburg-based miner’s request comes amid a rebound in palladium prices this year, driven by reduced South African output and thin spot market liquidity.
If approved, the tariff could disrupt global trade flows and intensify market instability.
"We believe that Russian palladium imports are being sold below market prices due to various factors, beginning primarily after the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022," said Sibanye-Stillwater chief executive Neal Froneman.
"Obtaining relief from dumped and subsidised Russian imports will give Sibanye-Stillwater, its employees, and the entire US PGM industry an opportunity to compete on a more level playing field."
A final decision on the petition is expected within 13 months.
Russia’s Nornickel, the world’s top palladium producer, controlling 40% of global supply, declined to comment.
Palladium prices have surged 31% this year, with analysts predicting further gains in 2025—the first annual increase in four years.
However, Heraeus analysts warned: “Although placing duties on Russian metal would not necessarily impact the market balance of palladium, it could result in the re-routing of global physical metal flows, leading to price volatility.”
Russia and South Africa dominate US palladium imports, with China being Russia’s second-largest buyer. US imports of Russian palladium jumped 42% year-on-year to over 500,000 troy ounces from January to May this year, according to Heraeus.
PGMs have so far escaped US sanctions on Russian firms and avoided tariffs under President Donald Trump.
Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor-In-Chief, Rough & Polished
