- Supply constraints and monsoon disruptions tighten market
- Export demand and operational challenges support prices
Domestic silico manganese prices in India rose amid a supply crunch caused by limited raw material availability and logistical disruptions during the monsoon season. Heavy rains have impacted transportation, tightening supply chains. Coupled with sound demand, these factors drove prices higher across major production regions in the country.
As per BigMint’s assessment dated 30 September 2025, domestic prices for silico manganese (60-14 grade) witnessed an upward trend across key Indian regions. In Raipur, prices reached INR 69,900/t ($788/t) ex-works, reflecting a w-o-w increase of INR 500/t ($6/t). Durgapur followed with rates assessed at INR 69,700/t ($786/t), up by INR 200/t ($2/t). Prices in Vizag also edged higher to INR 69,500/t ($784/t), registering a gain of INR 300/t ($3/t). Meanwhile, Raigarh recorded the sharpest rise, with prices climbing by INR 600/t ($7/t) to INR 69,000/t ex-works ($778/t).
The premium 60-15 grade remained largely stable w-o-w, trading between INR 71,500-72,000/t ($806-812/t). Meanwhile, trade volumes in Raipur remained steady at approximately 2,200 t.
Confirmed deal (as per BigMint)
Market recap
Import dependency for ore tightens market: India continues to depend heavily on imported manganese ore, especially high-grade material from South Africa and Gabon. Recent disruptions in global shipping, container shortages, and congestion at Indian ports have delayed ore imports. These delays have tightened raw material supply for ferro alloy producers, impacting silico manganese output and adding upward pressure to prices.
Export demand lends additional support: Indian silico manganese exports saw a slight uptick, particularly to Southeast Asian markets, where buyers sought alternative sources due to costlier Chinese offers. This rise in export inquiries has contributed to a tighter domestic market, especially as producers prioritize higher-margin overseas orders. With a portion of supply diverted abroad, domestic availability has shrunk further.
As per BigMint’s latest assessment, export prices of the 65-16 grade edged up by $2/tonne (t) w-o-w to $908/t FOB. Meanwhile, the 60-14 variant also registered a rise of $3/t to $814/t FOB.
Producers slash output amid operational challenges: Many silico manganese producers reported curtailed furnace operations due to raw material shortages, power supply issues, and rising input costs. In some regions, industrial power tariffs remained high, making production less viable at current realizations. Plants in central and southern India have reportedly been running below optimal capacity.
Furthermore, with logistical constraints limiting movement of both inputs and finished goods, some producers delayed new offers, creating a perception of tightness in the spot market. This artificial scarcity has added further support to domestic prices.
Outlook
The outlook for silico manganese remains upbeat, bolstered by MOIL’s upward revision of October ore prices by 6.4% above and below 44% manganese content, reflecting robust raw material fundamentals. Prices are likely to remain elevated, supported by constrained supply and consistent downstream demand.
While market participants are watchful of steel sector trends, infrastructure momentum and seasonal demand.
Leave a Reply