India exports first low-grade manganese ore as Moil opens new trade channel

Manganese Ore

India exports first low-grade manganese ore as state-owned miner Moil ships its first cargo to Indonesia. The move, where India exports first low-grade manganese ore under a new State Trading Enterprise mandate, highlights New Delhi’s push to monetise surplus low-grade Mn fines. As India exports first low-grade manganese ore, it also signals a more active role in seaborne minerals markets.

Moil leads India’s first low-grade manganese ore export

Moil has executed India’s first low-grade manganese ore export through the port of Visakhapatnam. The inaugural consignment totalled 54,600t and sailed for Indonesia on 22 August. Under the State Trading Enterprise regime, Moil now controls all exports of manganese ore below 46pc grade.

This mandate centralises export decision-making for low-grade Mn ore in a single state-backed entity. Therefore Moil can aggregate domestic supply, coordinate pricing and negotiate offtake with overseas buyers. The new mechanism also connects Indian suppliers with international customers, improving transparency and logistics.

India exports first low-grade manganese ore at a time when many steelmakers prefer higher-grade feedstock. However, low-grade material remains attractive for specific processes, blending and cost-sensitive markets. Indonesia’s growing manganese and alloy demand provides a natural first destination for this trade.

Surplus low-grade Mn reserves drive export strategy

India holds large reserves of low-grade manganese ore that exceed domestic demand. Historically, these fines faced limited commercial outlets or were underutilised in domestic steel and alloy production. As a result, policymakers now see exports as a way to unlock stranded value and diversify mineral revenues.

By ensuring India exports first low-grade manganese ore through a structured channel, Moil can build a pricing and quality benchmark. Over time, repeat shipments could establish Indian-origin low-grade Mn as a recognised segment in Asian markets. Meanwhile, exports may help optimise mine plans by monetising materials previously considered marginal.

The state’s decision to use a dedicated trading enterprise also aims to avoid fragmented, opportunistic deals. A coordinated approach can support better freight optimisation, contract discipline and adherence to environmental and social standards. If successful, this model could be replicated for other surplus low-grade ores.

The Metalnomist Commentary

India’s first low-grade manganese export is small in global volume terms but big in signalling intent. If Moil can scale this trade while maintaining quality and reliability, India could emerge as a regular low-grade Mn supplier to Southeast Asia. Market participants should watch future tenders, destination diversity and pricing trends against African and Australian material.