- South32 raises manganese ore prices for Aug’25
- Exporters flag delivery delays as market tightens
Indian silico manganese export prices edged up w-o-w, driven by strong seller sentiment and rising export inquiries. Limited availability of material for the export market further supported the price increase, indicating a tightening supply-demand scenario.
BigMint reported a w-o-w rise in export prices, with the 65-16 grade reaching $924/t FOB, up $3/t, and the 60-14 grade climbing $8/t to $846/t FOB since the last assessment on 23 June.
Market overview
South32 raises manganese ore prices for Aug’25: South32 has announced prices for its August manganese ore shipments. The company will price South African semi-carbonated lumps (37% grade) at $3.90/dmtu CIF China, slightly up by $0.05/dmtu m-o-m due to ongoing labour strikes in South Africa that disrupted mining and tightened supply.
Meanwhile, Australian lumps (42% grade) will be offered at $4.35/dmtu CIF China, down by $0.05/dmtu in the same period, reflecting slight upward pressure on production costs, especially for the 60-14 grade. This environment has helped sellers maintain higher silico manganese prices.
Additionally, UMK, a prominent South African ore producer, has set its July offer for 36% grade lumps at $3.85/dmtu CIF China, a decrease of $0.05/dmtu from the previous month.
Export prices trend higher as production costs, delivery gaps grow: Smelters kept silico manganese prices higher amid growing concerns over rising production costs and fluctuating imported manganese ore prices. Limited export supply from key sellers continues to support prices.
A leading smelter from Durgapur informed BigMint that supply disruptions are impacting both domestic and export markets. Immediate deliveries are unavailable as major producers are booked until mid-July, leaving new orders unfulfilled.
Additionally, fluctuating ore prices, rail and port congestion in South Africa, and freight challenges in India have increased shipping costs. These delays are forcing smelters to rely on costlier spot purchases, further pressuring production.
Outlook
Prices may fluctuate within a firm range, with an upward bias likely if supply tightness persists and export demand remains strong.
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