Uncovering the features of global antimony resource trade network

Abstract

Antimony is a scarce strategic metal and plays an extremely important role in the modern societies. Due to the increasing demands for various antimony-containing products, it is critical to identify the key supply risk of antimony industrial chain. This study aims to uncover the key features of antimony-related trade flows from a global value chain perspective and assess the trade network linkage and features of global antimony resource by using a complex network model and a stochastic block model. Also, the trade network evolution of global antimony resources is investigated by using an exponential random graph expansion method so that valuable policy insights can be obtained for preparing appropriate policies to facilitate sustainable antimony resource management. Results show that the network structure of the global antimony resource presents a significant center-periphery feature. China, India, Vietnam and Tajikistan have always acted as trade intermediaries and bridges of global antimony resources. Also, the evolution of global antimony resources trade network was driven by trade network autonomy and exogenous network embeddedness. In addition, geopolitics is the biggest obstacle to maintain the operation of this global antimony trade network. Finally, policy recommendations are proposed to help ensure sustainable supply of antimony resources.