- Far East bulk demand, EU queries support export prices
- Comilog hike signals firm ore trend; exports to stay supported
India’s silico manganese export prices rose amid persistently higher imported manganese ore costs, while strategic production cuts by key smelters reduced surplus availability. Many producers prioritised execution of existing orders over fresh bookings, lending support to prices, with a few high-priced deals further reinforcing the uptrend. However, trade activities at elevated offers have remained slow.
As per BigMint’s assessment on 7 April 2026, Indian silico manganese export prices increased w-o-w across key grades. The 65-16 grade was assessed at $1,011/t FOB, up by $60/t from $950/t on 1 April, reaching an ~1.9-year high. Meanwhile, the 60-14 grade rose by $80/t w-o-w to $935/t FOB.
Factor supporting prices
Supply squeeze lifts export prices: Indian smelters have been facing a sharp rise in both imported and domestic manganese ore prices in recent weeks, pushing production costs higher and creating panic in the market. Some smelters have curtailed output due to delays in imported ore shipments, while many are prioritizing execution of existing orders over fresh bookings.
Additionally, a few high-priced deals in the 60-14 grade at $935–940/t FOB have further supported export prices.
A smelter source informed BigMint that firm bulk demand from the Far East has been supporting prices, while fresh inquiries from the European market have also lent strength to offers. The source added that prices are likely to remain elevated over the next 1–2 months amid firm ore costs, though some correction may be seen thereafter.
Limited cargo flow lifts manganese ore prices: India’s imported manganese ore prices extended gains in the week ending 4 April, driven by tightening supply as global miners limited cargo flows to India. Prices rose by $0.10/dmtu w-o-w, with Australian Mn 46% at $6.24/dmtu, Gabonese Mn 44% at $5.83/dmtu, and South African Mn 37% at $5.31/dmtu CNF Haldia/Vizag (up by $0.15/dmtu). Limited availability, coupled with rising inquiries from manganese alloy producers, strengthened miners’ hold over the market, supporting the upward price trend.
Outlook
India export prices are likely to remain firm in the near term on high ore costs, tight supply, and steady overseas demand. However, a mild correction may follow in the medium term as ore prices ease and supply improves.
Additionally, Eramet Comilog has raised its May’26 ore prices, indicating firm global sentiment. This is likely to keep imported ore prices elevated in India, thereby supporting silico manganese export prices in the near term.
Leave a Reply