Silver Prices Surge as China Export Restrictions Deepen Global Supply Crisis

TLDR:

• China will restrict silver exports starting January 2026, requiring government licenses for exporters.
• Global silver deficit reaches 230 million ounces as demand hits 1.24 billion against 1.01 billion supply.
• COMEX inventories have plunged 70% since 2020 while Shanghai premiums exceed $80 per ounce currently.
• Paper to physical silver ratio stands at 356:1, creating disconnect between contracts and real metal.

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Silver prices are experiencing rapid gains as physical markets struggle to meet escalating demand. The shortage stems from multiple factors including new Chinese export controls and depleting global inventories. 

Market analysts point to structural deficits that have persisted for five consecutive years. Physical premiums in key markets now exceed standard pricing by significant margins.

China’s Export Controls Tighten Global Supply

China announced new silver export restrictions effective January 1, 2026. Companies seeking export licenses must meet stringent requirements including annual production of at least 80 tonnes. 

Additionally, firms need credit lines around $30 million to qualify. These measures effectively eliminate small and mid-sized exporters from international markets.

The country controls approximately 60 to 70 percent of global silver supply. When China restricts exports, international availability drops immediately. 

This approach mirrors tactics previously used with rare earth metals. The strategy gives China greater control over global commodity flows.

Market participants warn that existing supply gaps will worsen under these restrictions. The timing coincides with already tight physical markets across major trading hubs. 

Supply chain adjustments typically require extended timeframes to implement. Near-term alternatives remain limited for importers dependent on Chinese sources.

According to Bull Theory, a market analysis account on social media, these policy changes represent a major shift. 

The account stated that China’s actions follow established patterns in commodity market management. Previous rare earth restrictions demonstrated the effectiveness of this regulatory approach.

Physical Inventories Decline Across Major Markets

Global silver markets face a structural deficit for the fifth straight year. Demand for 2025 reaches 1.24 billion ounces while supply totals only 1.01 billion ounces. 

This creates a shortfall between 100 and 250 million ounces. The gap continues expanding as industrial consumption grows.

Mining output fails to keep pace with rising demand. Most silver production occurs as a byproduct of copper and zinc mining. New mines require over a decade to develop and become operational. Ore quality has declined at existing operations. Recycling efforts cannot bridge the supply deficit.

COMEX inventories have dropped 70 percent since 2020. London vaults show declines of 40 percent over the same period. Shanghai inventories sit at ten-year lows. 

Some regions maintain only 30 to 45 days of usable silver at current consumption rates.

Physical premiums reflect the shortage severity. In Shanghai, physical silver trades above $80 per ounce. COMEX prices remain substantially lower. 

Buyers pay significant premiums to secure actual metal delivery. The paper to physical ratio stands at approximately 356 to 1.

Industrial demand accounts for 50 to 60 percent of total silver consumption. Solar panels, electric vehicles, electronics, and medical devices all require silver. 

No viable substitutes exist for many applications. Banks and institutions respond to supply constraints and paper market risks accordingly.

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