Latest Update in the SMM Other Minor Metals Market

In the world of electronics manufacturing, tantalum holds a position as an element contributing significantly to the effectiveness and operation of a wide range of devices. Its distinctive characteristics are vital for companies looking to create notch products.

【SMM Analysis：Expectations for the peak season remain; manganese ore imports in October increased MoM.】According to the latest release from the General Administration of Customs, SMM statistics show that China's total manganese ore imports in October 2024 were 2.93 million mt, up 7.34% MoM and up 8.15% YoY. The cumulative imports from January to October were 24.59 million mt, down 5.94% YoY. The main reasons for the MoM increase in manganese ore imports in October are: on one hand, overseas market quotations fell, and market sentiment was high as traders, who had been observing earlier, were bearish on the price outlook. On the other hand, October is still the peak season for regular manganese ore purchases, and alloy plants increased their procurement enthusiasm. Looking ahead, current manganese ore inventories in both northern and southern regions are at a relatively high level, and alloy plants are expected to slightly reduce production schedules, leading to cautious manganese ore procurement. The price outlook for manganese ore is expected to fluctuate downward.

The SM2501 contract opened at 6,244 yuan/mt, fluctuated rangebound after the morning session, and finally closed at 6,306 yuan/mt, up 1.38%.

According to the latest release from the General Administration of Customs, China exported 5,164.33 mt of SiMn alloy in October 2024, up 3.24% MoM.

On November 20, in the northern market, SiMn alloy 65/17 was priced at 5,850-6,050 yuan/mt (cash), down 50 yuan/mt WoW.

According to SMM statistics, as of November 15, the national social inventory of silicon metal totaled 512,000 mt, up 13,000 mt WoW.

Last week, silicone monomer enterprises maintained stable quotations, with the market's lowest price at 12,500 yuan/mt.

According to the SMM survey, the weekly production of sample silicon producers in Xinjiang (accounting for 76% of capacity) was 42,340 mt, with a weekly operating rate of 87%, basically flat WoW.