- Higher offers gain acceptance amid limited availability
- Producers limit output to strengthen pricing power
India’s medium-carbon silico manganese (Mn 53%, Si 20%, C max 0.5%) prices edged up by INR 800/t ($8/t) w-o-w to INR 91,800/t ($958/t) in the assessment week ended 24 September 2026, supported by improved buyer acceptance of firmer offers and tighter availability of prompt material. Market participants remained cautious, but reduced willingness among sellers to discount helped sustain the upward movement.
Improved buyer acceptance supports higher market offers
Buyers have shown greater acceptance of higher price levels, allowing producers and traders to hold firmer offers. Recent market activity indicates that transactions at elevated levels have helped establish stronger price benchmarks, while sellers have become less willing to concede discounts. This shift from highly price-sensitive procurement towards acceptance of prevailing offers has provided near-term support to prices, even though overall buying activity remains measured.
Tighter prompt availability strengthens seller pricing power
Availability remains relatively constrained, particularly as producers manage output according to prevailing alloy economics. With fewer aggressively priced tonnes available in the spot market, sellers have gained greater control over negotiations. The supply situation is also being watched alongside manganese ore and broader ferro-alloy costs, keeping producers cautious about lowering offers. This has provided a firmer underlying base for prices despite limited aggressive demand.
A key trader told BigMint, “Prices have moved up, and buyers are showing greater acceptance of higher levels while continuing to purchase selectively. With spot availability limited, sellers are comfortable holding current offers rather than offering discounts.”
Outlook
Prices are likely to remain firm in the near term as sellers resist discounts and prompt availability stays constrained. However, sustained gains will require stronger buying activity and confirmed transactions.
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