Welcome to the Goudsmit UK September Market Update. This update provides an overview of key developments, helping you stay informed and prepared for whatever the market brings.
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Market Outlook:
China’s export licensing controls on key rare earth elements such as samarium and dysprosium remain in place, with approvals often taking up to 45 working days. Any errors in documentation risk further delaying approvals.
In response, many UK companies are building inventory buffers or seeking alternative sources to maintain resilience.
At Goudsmit UK, we understand that today’s supply chain landscape demands flexibility and foresight. Our team is ready to help you plan shipments, manage risks, and ensure deliveries arrive with as little disruption as possible. If you’d like to review current orders, discuss future requirements, or explore strategies to build resilience, please get in touch—we’re here to support your business at every stage.
Exchange Rate
Worst GBP to USD exchange rate in August 2025: 1.3276
Best GBP to USD exchange rate in August 2025: 1.3579
Average GBP to USD exchange rate in August 2025: 1.3457
Port Operations
Congestion across major Chinese export hubs – including Shanghai, Ningbo, and Yantian – continues to put pressure on schedules. Carriers are still diverting vessels via the Cape of Good Hope to bypass Red Sea security concerns, adding both time and cost to the journey.
With China’s Golden Week holiday approaching in early October, shipping demand is rising sharply, compounding existing backlogs.
End-to-end transit times are currently in the region of 40–42 days, though reliability remains inconsistent. Freight rates remain volatile as carriers balance capacity with strong demand.
To mitigate exposure, importers are advised to lock in bookings early, hold contingency stock, and consider splitting consignments across multiple sailings.
Airport Operations
Air freight remains an expensive but necessary option for urgent shipments. Rates on China–Europe lanes are consistently above $3.50/kg, with space increasingly tight as manufacturers push to move goods before factory closures.
Flight schedules are generally stable, but rerouting around Russian airspace continues to extend certain routes by up to a quarter, raising fuel costs and keeping prices elevated.
Transit times are usually 8–10 days door-to-door, but sudden overbooking or airport delays can add further disruption. Forward planning is crucial, and businesses are encouraged to secure uplift early and keep alternative routings in mind.
Commodity Rates
In September, the most notable movement came from neodymium, which jumped sharply from 84.00 to 105.00 USD/kg – its highest level in two years, reflecting strong demand and the ongoing impact of China’s export licensing rules. Cobalt also continued its climb, reaching 35.29 USD/kg.
Copper rebounded to 10.05 USD/kg after dipping in August, though it remains below its June peak. Base metals including aluminum, nickel, and zinc showed modest upward movement, highlighting steady demand, while samarium prices remained flat. Overall, rare earths are driving the most significant price pressures, while broader metal markets remain comparatively stable.
Thanks for reading the Goudsmit UK Market Update. At Goudsmit UK, we specialise in providing high-quality magnets and engineered components tailored to meet your specific needs.
Our team of experts is dedicated to helping you find the perfect magnetic solutions for your projects. For more information about our products and services, contact us today.
