Lead prices averaged USD 1,957 per metric ton in May, up 2.7% from April. On 30 May, the commodity traded at USD 1,934 per metric ton, down 0.7% from 30 April.
Prices rose in May as demand conditions improved. The U.S. and China agreed to lower reciprocal tariffs for 90 days while they work on a comprehensive trade deal, lifting market sentiment. Additionally, vehicle sales in the key automotive sector recovered some ground in May after April’s slump. On the supply side, Chinese secondary lead output fell over 30% month on month in May, adding further upward pressure on prices.
This chart displays Lead (US$/mt) from 2023 to 2025.
Lead LME (prices in US$/mt, aop)
Q1 2023 | Q2 2023 | Q3 2023 | Q4 2023 | Q1 2024 | Q2 2024 | Q3 2024 | Q4 2024 | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Lead LME | - | 2,117 | 2,171 | 2,117 | 2,074 | 2,166 | 2,038 | 2,004 |