- Rising costs and demand strengthen export prices
- Geopolitical tensions and supply constraints support market
India’s silico manganese export prices increased w-o-w, driven by rising raw material costs and improving global demand. Strengthened market sentiment, along with constrained supply and elevated production expenses, encouraged exporters to raise offers across key grades.
As per BigMint’s assessment on 23 March 2026, Indian silico manganese export prices rose w-o-w across key grades. The 65-16 grade was assessed at $927/t FOB, up by $7/t from $920/t FOB on 16 March, while the 60-14 grade went up by $11/t w-o-w to $833/t FOB.
“Offers have risen on FoB basis, due to surge in freight rates, but theer are hardly any firm inquiries in the market amidst volatile market scenario.”, quoted a trader.
Market overview
Imported manganese ore prices rise: Imported manganese ore prices moved higher amid tightening seaborne supply and steady procurement from alloy producers. Ongoing logistical constraints and limited spot availability contributed to the upward price momentum across major origins.
Prices of South African lumps (Mn 37%) increased by $0.13/dmtu w-o-w to $5.06/dmtu CNF Haldia/Vizag, while Australian high-grade ore (Mn 46%) increased by $0.07/dmtu to $5.92/dmtu and Gabonese high-grade ore (Mn 44%) went up by $0.06/dmtu to $5.53/dmtu.
Strong global demand and shipping constraints support export prices: India’s silico manganese export prices strengthened as overseas buyers actively procured material amid tight global inventories. Limited shipping capacity and higher freight costs increased landed prices, prompting exporters to maintain higher offers.
Steady restocking by steel producers in key consuming regions, along with delays from other producing countries, further tightened supply. Strategic volume management by Indian manufacturers reinforced market confidence, collectively sustaining upward pressure on export prices across major grades.
China’s silico manganese prices inch up on improving steel demand: Chinese silico manganese prices (Mn 65%, Si 17%) remained largely stable with slight rise by RMB 40/t ($6/t) w-o-w to RMB 5,900-6,200/t ($854-897/t) exw, inclusive of taxes, on 20 March 2026.
The silico manganese market remained strong, supported by rising costs and improving steel demand. Positive sentiment persists, with prices holding firm, while short-term trends point to high-level fluctuations and gradual fundamental recovery.
Outlook
The silico manganese export market is expected to remain supported by steady global demand, constrained supply, rising input costs, cautious buying, and geopolitical tensions, with prices likely fluctuating at elevated levels.
Leave a Reply