I. Global Garnet Sand Market Landscape & Trade Dynamics

Market Size & Growth

The global garnet sand market reached 5.2 billion in 2024, projected to exceed7.8 billion by 2030. China remains the world’s largest producer, accounting for 45% of global output in 2023, with exports primarily flowing to Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia. India leads in export volume (450,000 metric tons annually), while Brazil dominates high-purity markets in Europe and North America.

China’s Export Competitiveness

Cost Advantage: China’s processing costs are 12% lower than India’s, driving increased penetration in emerging markets like Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Policy Drivers: OBOR infrastructure projects are expected to boost demand for garnet sand in sandblasting derusting applications by 25% in OBOR regions.

II. Key Application Demand Analysis

Water Jet Cutting (Waterjet Technology)

The global waterjet cutting machine market is forecast to reach $2.6 billion by 2030, with garnet sand accounting for over 60% of abrasive materials. In automotive battery tray manufacturing, 80-mesh garnet sand used in 5-axis systems reduces per-unit costs by 28%.

Oil & Gas Fracturing Proppants

With surging demand in Russia and the Middle East, garnet sand proppants now represent 45% of deep-well (below 6,000m) solutions. China’s 2024 export volume grew 38%, driven by superior compressive strength (86 MPa) compared to quartz alternatives.

Eco-Friendly Replacement Market

Garnet sand’s silica-free composition eliminates pneumoconiosis risks, complying with EU/US workplace safety regulations. Its adoption in replacing crystalline silica has spurred a 52% year-on-year export surge to Europe in 2024.