Tungsten is used primarily in cemented carbide products for cutting, drilling and wear-resistant applications, particularly in construction, metalworking, mining and energy-related industries. It is also used in alloys, specialty steels, electrodes, filaments, wires and components for electrical, electronic, heating, lighting and welding applications. (U.S. Geological Survey Publications)
Its hardness and resistance to heat make tungsten important for precision tools and high-performance components where durability and reliability are essential. In many applications, substitution can increase cost or reduce performance, which reinforces tungsten’s strategic importance. (U.S. Geological Survey Publications)
Global tungsten supply remains highly concentrated. China continued to be the world’s leading producer, importer and consumer of tungsten concentrates, and world mine production was estimated at approximately 85 000 tonnes of tungsten content in 2025. Prices rose sharply through 2025, reflecting tighter supply conditions and export-control developments. (U.S. Geological Survey Publications)
Tungsten is expected to remain strategically important because of its concentrated supply base, limited substitution options and critical role in high-performance industrial applications. For Andrada, Brandberg West provides diversification potential through tungsten and copper in addition to tin. Supply security has become increasingly important as export controls and rising demand have contributed to stronger prices. The USGS reported that prices rose sharply through 2025, while world mine production increased partly because of new production from Kazakhstan. (U.S. Geological Survey Publications).
Tungsten demand is supported by its essential role in advanced manufacturing, precision engineering, mining, electronics and high-performance industrial applications. Tungsten, is valued for its exceptional heat resistance, strength and durability, making it one of the most important metals for applications that require performance under extreme conditions. The metal is commonly found in minerals such as wolframite and scheelite and is often associated with tin-bearing geological systems.
Tungsten demand is driven by sectors that require materials capable of withstanding heat, pressure and wear. These include advanced manufacturing, engineering, mining, construction, metalworking, electronics and specialist industrial processes. As industries continue to demand stronger, more durable and more efficient materials, tungsten’s unique properties position it as a key metal for high-performance applications.
Tungsten is expected to remain strategically important because of its concentrated supply base, limited substitution options and a critical role in advanced industrial applications. With China continuing to dominate global production and consumption, new sources of tungsten supply outside established producing regions are likely to attract increasing attention. (U.S. Geological Survey Publications)
For Andrada, Brandberg West offers a clear pathway to expand beyond tin, lithium and tantalum into additional critical metals, with tungsten providing a strong diversification opportunity within Namibia’s mineral-rich Erongo region. (Andrada Mining)
