【SMM Flash】Middle East August Sulfur Contract Prices Released

【U.S. Issues Black Mass Export Rule, Restrictions Effective Aug 27】 The U.S. Department of Commerce on August 5 published the Interim Final Rule implementing export restrictions on black mass and tungsten scrap, following President Trump's Executive Order signed on July 30. The rule will take effect on August 27, 2026, and remain in force until August 27, 2027. During this period, exports of the covered materials will be subject to new U.S. export control requirements, with certain exports requiring authorization or meeting specified conditions. The U.S. government said the measure aims to strengthen domestic critical mineral supply and support the country's battery recycling and critical minerals industries.

Samsung SDI announced on August 4 that it will strengthen its push into the AI data center battery backup unit (BBU) market with cylindrical batteries that offer space efficiency, high output and safety. The company plans to expand the application of its cylindrical batteries from power tools and home appliances to BBUs for artificial intelligence (AI) data centers.

According to local U.S. media reports, the Fayette County Board of Commissioners in Ohio unanimously approved on June 29 a proposal for the county building department to resume reviewing building permits and conducting site inspections for the L-H Battery Company plant. The work had previously been handled by the state government. Following the decision, construction-related permitting and inspection authority for the battery plant near Jeffersonville will be transferred to Fayette County.