- Supply disruptions push imported manganese ore prices marginally higher
- Export prices seen edging up on higher ore costs, bulk demand awaited
Indian silico manganese export prices witnessed a slight uptick, supported by rising imported manganese ore prices and limited ore availability at exporting ports. Additionally, a modest recovery in domestic steel prices prompted exporters to raise offering prices. Renewed bulk booking inquiries from Japan further lent support to export prices.
BigMint’s assessment on 05 January 2026 reveals silico manganese export prices inched up w-o-w across grades. The 65-16 variant stood at $908/t FOB, up by $11/t w-o-w from $897/t FOB on 29 December, while the 60-14 grade was assessed at $811/t FOB, up by $3/t w-o-w.
Market overview
Tight port availability lifts imported manganese ore prices: India’s imported manganese ore prices edged up marginally, supported by tightening supply at exporting ports and logistical bottlenecks between mines and ports, which have increased shipment uncertainties despite subdued downstream demand.
- Australian high-grade ore (Mn 46%): Prices rose by around $0.03/dmtu w-o-w to $5.26/dmtu CNF Haldia/Vizag.
- Gabonese high-grade ore (Mn 44%): Prices increased by about $0.02/dmtu w-o-w to $4.92/dmtu CNF Haldia/Vizag.
- South African lumps (Mn 37%): Prices remained stable w-o-w at $4.28/dmtu CNF Haldia/Vizag, supported by adequate availability with smelters.
Seasonal disruptions due to the wet season in South Africa and Gabon have constrained mine-to-port logistics, lending mild support to ore prices. Higher replacement costs are adding pressure on silico manganese production costs, limiting the downside in alloy prices despite weak demand.
A key exporter from Vizag told BigMint that silico manganese prices are likely to remain supported in the near term, backed by regular inquiries, though bulk orders are still awaited. Rising production costs have squeezed margins, with current selling prices offering limited profitability. Price sustainability will depend on an improvement in overseas demand, which is expected to pick up, although escalating geopolitical tensions remain a key concern.
Chinese silico manganese prices rise slightly amid higher input costs: Chinese silico manganese prices (Mn 65%, Si 17%) rose by RMB 50/t ($7/t) w-o-w to RMB 5,660-5,930/t ($809-848/t) exw, inclusive of taxes. Prices edged up on firm production costs and tight overseas manganese ore supply, particularly due to delays in South African shipments.
Stable steel demand and winter stocking supported the market, while firm ore prices and limited manganese-rich slag availability kept costs elevated. Squeezed producer margins strengthened price support, though limited acceptance of higher prices capped further gains.
Outlook
Export prices may see a slight uptick in the near term amid rising ore prices. However, bulk booking inquiries from overseas markets will be crucial in determining the future price trend.
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