Georgian Manganese Halts Silico-Manganese Production Amid Market Decline and Protests

Georgian Manganese

Georgian Manganese, a leading producer of silico-manganese based in Georgia, has announced a suspension of its silico-manganese production for four months. This decision follows a prolonged decline in global demand for ferro-alloys and the resulting fall in prices. The suspension, which began on October 2, will continue through March 1, 2024, at the company's processing plant in Zestafoni, Georgia. The company confirmed the shutdown through a post on social media, citing market conditions and ongoing operational challenges.

Market Conditions and Operational Challenges

Georgian Manganese has faced a steady downturn in the silico-manganese market for the past two years, with prices continuing to soften. As a result, the company ceased sales to its primary market, the United States, in September. The market slump, coupled with protests at the company’s mining operations in Chiatura, Georgia, has made it increasingly difficult to maintain production levels.

Protests at the Chiatura mine, which accounts for a significant portion of Georgian Manganese's manganese ore supply, have worsened since March. Local picketing activities have caused a 70% decrease in production at the mine, further compounding supply issues. As a result, Chiatura Management, the contractor responsible for the mine, has been unable to ensure a consistent feedstock supply to the Zestafoni plant, prompting the decision to halt production.

Despite these setbacks, Georgian Manganese remains hopeful that market conditions will improve and the company can resume operations ahead of schedule. A crisis management plan is being developed to address the ongoing issues at the mine, with an emphasis on stabilizing the supply of manganese ore and improving overall operational efficiency.

The Importance of Georgian Manganese in the US Market

Historically, Georgia has been a significant supplier of silico-manganese to the United States. In the period from 2019 to 2023, Georgia accounted for 24% of the US’s silico-manganese imports, amounting to 415,182 metric tonnes. This year, the country has already shipped 60,253 tonnes of the 254,771 tonnes of silico-manganese imported by the US up until the end of August.

Georgian Manganese is owned by Florida-based Georgian American Alloys, which also owns Feldman Trading. Through this subsidiary, Georgian American Alloys markets its products in the US. The company also owns CC Metals and Alloys, previously a ferro-silicon producer in Kentucky, and Feldman Production, which manufactures silico-manganese and high-carbon ferro-manganese in West Virginia.

NBVL Ferro-Silicon Output Surges 480% on Strong Export Demand

NBVL

NBVL ferro-silicon output achieved remarkable growth with production reaching 13,490 tonnes in FY2025, compared to just 2,380 tonnes the previous year. The Indian ferro-alloy producer's NBVL ferro-silicon production increase of nearly six times reflects strong international orders, particularly from the US market, amid challenging domestic conditions and oversupply pressures.

Strategic Furnace Conversion Drives Production Expansion

NBVL ferro-silicon production capacity expanded through strategic infrastructure investments beginning in January 2024. The company launched its first ferro-silicon furnace with 11,000 tonnes annual capacity, followed by a second furnace in December 2024. However, the second furnace switched back to silico-manganese production on May 1, 2025, following the US imposition of additional 10% tariffs on ferro-silicon imports.

Meanwhile, the furnace conversion strategy impacted silico-manganese production at NBVL's Paloncha operations. Silico-manganese output decreased 4.4% to 25,617 tonnes in Q4 FY2025 as two furnaces were temporarily converted to ferro-silicon production. Total silico-manganese production fell slightly to just under 104,200 tonnes for the full financial year.

Export Focus Delivers Revenue Growth Despite Market Challenges

However, NBVL's export-oriented strategy proved successful despite domestic market headwinds and international trade tensions. Export sales constituted 40% of total sales during FY2025, with the majority of ferro-silicon shipments destined for US markets. Combined silico-manganese and ferro-silicon sales reached 42,327 tonnes in Q4, significantly higher than 20,068 tonnes in the previous quarter.

Therefore, the company's strategic pivot toward international markets generated improved revenue and profitability metrics. NBVL management indicated expectations for better performance in FY2026 while targeting Japanese markets rather than domestic or other international destinations. This geographic diversification strategy aims to reduce dependence on tariff-affected US ferro-silicon trade.

Market Conditions Shape Future Investment Strategy

Furthermore, NBVL management expressed caution about domestic expansion plans citing existing oversupply conditions in India's ferro-alloy market. The company indicated it would consider expansion only after securing dedicated raw material sources to ensure competitive cost structures. This conservative approach reflects broader industry challenges including volatile raw material prices and intense competition.

As a result, the US tariff implementation on ferro-silicon products demonstrates how trade policies directly influence production decisions and market strategies. NBVL's quick response in switching the second furnace back to silico-manganese production illustrates operational flexibility in navigating changing trade conditions while maintaining export competitiveness.

The Metalnomist Commentary

NBVL's dramatic ferro-silicon output expansion exemplifies how Indian ferro-alloy producers leverage export opportunities to offset domestic market weakness, though trade policy changes require rapid operational adjustments. The company's strategic furnace switching capabilities demonstrate the importance of production flexibility in navigating volatile international trade conditions that increasingly characterize global ferro-alloy markets.

HBIS Silico-Manganese Tender Prices Fall as China Steel Demand Weakens

Silico-Manganese

HBIS silico-manganese tender prices fell in April as weaker steel demand and higher spot alloy availability pressured China’s bulk alloy market. Hebei Iron and Steel cut its tender price for 65/17 grade silico-manganese to 6,300 yuan/t delivered and paid by acceptance bill.

The latest HBIS silico-manganese tender prices were down by 250 yuan/t from the previous tender. The state-owned steel producer increased April purchase volumes to 8,500t, up by 3,400t from its previous buying round.

HBIS silico-manganese tender prices are closely watched because they help set the tone for China’s manganese alloy market. The lower tender confirms that steel mills are using weak downstream demand and larger spot availability to push procurement costs lower.

The cut also reflects pressure from rising steel inventories. China Iron and Steel Association members held 18.63mn t of steel inventories as of 20 April, up 6.4% from early April and 12% from a year earlier.

Oversupply Weighs on Alloy Prices Despite Higher Tender Volumes

China’s domestic 65/17 silico-manganese alloy prices fell to 6,000-6,150 yuan/t ex-works on 23 April. This was down from 6,100-6,300 yuan/t on 9 April.

The price decline reflects continued oversupply in the market. Higher inventory pressure has limited the ability of alloy producers to defend prices, even when some steel demand shows signs of recovery.

HBIS’ higher purchase volumes gave the market some support, but not enough to reverse price direction. Buyers remain cautious because steel inventories are still elevated and construction demand has not yet fully recovered.

Some market participants are more optimistic about the steel outlook. Construction and infrastructure demand are expected to resume gradually, while domestic and seaborne steel demand improved in mid-April.

Chinese steel mills also lifted production slightly during that period. If steel output continues to rise, silico-manganese consumption could improve because the alloy is widely used in steel deoxidation and strengthening.

However, the recovery remains uneven. The higher HBIS buying volume suggests some restocking need, but the lower price shows that mills still hold negotiating power.

Ore Costs and Output Curbs Limit Downside Pressure

Many silico-manganese plants kept firm offers despite weaker spot prices. Higher manganese ore feedstock costs continue to support producer cost floors.

Output curbs at several large alloy producers in north China also helped limit deeper declines. Reduced production can help balance supply if demand recovers, but current inventory pressure remains the larger problem.

The market is therefore caught between two opposing forces. Weak steel demand and alloy oversupply are pushing prices lower, while ore costs and production curbs are preventing a sharper collapse.

This tension is typical of bulk alloy markets. Producers cannot easily cut prices below cost for long, but buyers can delay purchases when inventories are high and demand is uncertain.

For steelmakers, lower silico-manganese tender prices provide some cost relief. For alloy producers, the main challenge is preserving margins while feedstock prices remain firm.

The next market signal will come from whether steel demand improves enough to absorb alloy inventories. Without clearer consumption growth, manganese alloy prices may remain under pressure even if ore costs stay elevated.

The Metalnomist Commentary

HBIS’ tender cut shows that China’s silico-manganese market is still demand-led, despite higher ore costs. A real recovery will require stronger steel consumption and inventory drawdowns, not only higher tender volumes.

India Manganese Alloy Prices Fall as Supply Glut Meets Weak Demand

Manganese alloy

India manganese alloy prices declined as muted demand, excess supply and cautious buying weighed on the bulk alloys market. Ferro-manganese and silico-manganese both moved lower, while ferro-chrome and ferro-silicon prices remained broadly stable.

India manganese alloy prices are under pressure from a widening mismatch between production and consumption. Weak stainless steel demand, limited export bookings and inventory overhangs have reduced market momentum.

India manganese alloy prices are also being affected by liquidity pressure among producers. Some suppliers lowered offers toward the end of the month to generate cash flow, adding further downside pressure.

The broader market remains uneven. Ferro-chrome is supported by long-term export commitments, while ferro-silicon is supported by limited availability. Manganese alloys, however, face weaker domestic and overseas demand.

Ferro-Manganese and Silico-Manganese Weaken on Inventory Pressure

Ferro-manganese prices fell as domestic demand remained insufficient to absorb available supply. The 70% ferro-manganese price declined to Rs83,000-85,000/t ex-works, while 75% material fell to Rs90,000-92,000/t.

Higher manganese ore costs continue to provide some support. This is why ferro-manganese prices are expected to remain above silico-manganese, despite weak buying and limited spot activity.

However, the domestic market is still struggling with excess supply. Producers are competing for limited orders, and some have cut prices to maintain liquidity.

Silico-manganese prices also moved lower. Indian 60% silico-manganese fell to Rs82,500-83,500/t ex-works, with market activity described as extremely limited.

Price recovery will be difficult until inventories are absorbed. Buyers remain cautious and are delaying purchases because they expect further corrections.

Export prices also weakened. The 60% silico-manganese export price fell to $890-900/t fob east coast, while 65% material declined to $960-980/t fob.

Overseas buying slowed as higher offer levels discouraged bookings. Middle East enquiries halted because of geopolitical tensions, while European demand weakened under quota restrictions.

CBAM certification is adding another pressure point. European buyers are increasingly demanding carbon documentation for high-carbon manganese alloys, raising compliance costs and complicating Indian export sales.

Ferro-Chrome and Ferro-Silicon Hold Steady Despite Weak Sentiment

Ferro-chrome prices remained stable even as downstream demand stayed subdued. High-carbon 60% ferro-chrome held at Rs117,000-119,000/t ex-works.

Domestic producers continued fulfilling long-term export commitments. This helped keep the market steady despite weaker bids in OMC’s chrome ore auction.

The fall in auction bids reflected softer consumer demand. However, ferro-chrome did not face the same immediate inventory and liquidity pressure seen in manganese alloys.

Ferro-silicon prices also held steady. The 70% ferro-silicon price remained at Rs108,000-110,000/t ex-works, supported by limited availability and firm demand.

The difference between ferro-silicon and manganese alloys shows how supply balance is driving price direction. Ferro-silicon has tighter availability, while manganese alloys face surplus material and weaker offtake.

For Indian bulk alloys, export conditions remain critical. Domestic demand alone may not be enough to absorb production if overseas buying stays weak.

The European market will also become more difficult for high-carbon alloys. CBAM compliance, quota restrictions and weak steel consumption could keep Indian exporters under pressure.

The Metalnomist Commentary

India’s manganese alloy market is not facing a raw material problem alone; it is facing a demand absorption problem. Until excess inventories clear and export demand improves, ore cost support will only slow the decline rather than reverse it.

Eramet Manganese Ore Volumes Rise Despite Lower Gabon Mine Output

Eramet Manganese

Eramet manganese ore volumes increased in the first quarter as stronger transportation and external sales offset lower mine production from Comilog’s Moanda operations in Gabon. The French multi-metals group transported 1.61mn t of manganese ore in January-March, up 16% from a year earlier.

Eramet manganese ore volumes are on course to reach 6.4mn-6.8mn t for the full year. This suggests that logistics performance and inventory movement remain strong despite weaker quarterly production.

Eramet manganese ore volumes matter because Gabon is one of the world’s key manganese ore supply sources. Stable exports from Comilog support alloy producers in steelmaking markets, especially outside China.

Manganese ore production at Moanda fell by 11% on the year to 1.59mn t in the first quarter. However, external ore sales rose by 10% to 1.36mn t, showing that market deliveries remained resilient.

Alloy Output Supports Manganese Chain

Eramet’s manganese alloy production rose by 4% on the year to 168,000t in the first quarter. Sales increased by 6% to 158,000t.

The company produces manganese alloys across six sites in Norway, the US, France and Gabon. This gives Eramet exposure to both upstream ore and downstream alloy markets.

Manganese alloys are essential inputs for steelmaking. Ferro-manganese and silico-manganese improve strength, hardness and deoxidation performance in steel production.

The increase in alloy output indicates that downstream demand remained sufficient to support production. This is important at a time when some regional steel markets are under pressure from weak construction activity and cautious buying.

Eramet’s integrated position gives it flexibility. Higher transported ore volumes support external customers, while alloy production allows the company to capture additional value further along the manganese chain.

India Demand Offers Support as China Remains Weak

Eramet expects manganese ore demand to increase slightly in 2026. Growth is expected to come from higher alloy production in India and other non-China markets.

India is becoming more important in the manganese market because of steel production growth and alloy capacity expansion. Stronger Indian alloy output can support ore demand even when Chinese consumption is weaker.

China remains a pressure point. Eramet expects manganese ore demand in China to stay under pressure, reflecting slower steel demand and weaker market conditions.

This creates a more regionalised manganese outlook. Suppliers with access to growing alloy markets outside China may be better positioned than those heavily dependent on Chinese demand.

For Eramet, the key issue will be maintaining transported volumes while improving mine output. If Moanda production recovers and alloy demand remains steady, the company can strengthen its position across both ore and alloy markets.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Eramet’s first-quarter figures show that manganese supply strength depends as much on logistics and sales execution as mine output. India’s alloy growth could become a more important demand anchor if China’s steel-linked manganese consumption remains weak.

Moil Manganese Ore Prices Fall as Indian Steel Demand Weakens

Moil, Manganese Ore

Moil manganese ore prices have been cut by 4% for May as weak downstream steel demand and sluggish export bookings pressure India’s manganese market. The state-owned producer reduced prices across ferro-grade ore, silico-grade ore and fines.

Moil manganese ore prices for ferro-grade material with manganese content of 44% and above, as well as below-44% material, were lowered by 4% from April levels. The cut follows a sharp 17.5% increase in April for ore below 44% manganese content.

Moil manganese ore prices for 25% and 30% silico-grade ore and fines were also reduced by 4% for May. The move reflects a softer market environment in which domestic buyers are cautious and export opportunities remain limited.

The price cut highlights a wider imbalance in India’s manganese ore chain. Lower export demand has pushed more material into the domestic market, creating surplus supply across major trading hubs.

Weak Steel Demand Pressures Ferro-Grade Ore

Ferro-grade manganese ore demand remains tied closely to steel and ferro-alloy production. When steel demand weakens, alloy producers reduce feedstock buying and ore prices come under pressure.

India’s downstream steel market has been sluggish, limiting demand for manganese alloys and the ore used to produce them. This has made buyers more cautious about restocking, especially after the April price increase.

The 4% reduction is therefore a market-clearing move. Moil is adjusting prices to reflect weaker consumer appetite and rising domestic availability.

Export weakness has added further pressure. Reduced overseas bookings mean more ore is staying inside India, increasing competition among suppliers and traders.

This domestic oversupply is especially important for ferro-grade ore. Alloy producers can delay purchases when they expect further weakness, which slows market activity and reinforces downward pressure.

Higher Output Adds to Domestic Supply Overhang

Moil’s production has continued to rise despite weaker demand. The company produced around 164,000t of manganese ore in March 2026, up from 159,000t a year earlier.

Full-year output for April 2025-March 2026 reached 1.9mn t, compared with 1.8mn t in the previous fiscal year. This higher supply has entered a market already facing softer domestic and export demand.

The result is a supply overhang across key trading hubs. Even if production growth is modest, weaker buying can quickly create surplus conditions in the manganese ore market.

For alloy producers, lower ore prices may ease cost pressure. But the benefit depends on whether ferro-manganese and silico-manganese demand recovers enough to support production margins.

For Moil, the challenge is balancing output growth with market absorption. Higher production supports volume targets, but weak demand forces price adjustments when inventories rise.

The May price cut therefore sends a clear signal. India’s manganese ore market needs stronger steel and alloy demand before pricing power can return.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Moil’s price cut shows that India’s manganese market is being driven by demand weakness, not raw material scarcity. Until steel and export bookings improve, higher mine output will continue to weigh on ore pricing.

Georgian Manganese Ends Underground Mining at Chiatura Amid Low Ore Grades and Mounting Losses

Georgian Manganese Mining

Strikes, falling silico-manganese prices, and financial strain force producer to scale back operations in Georgia.

Georgian Manganese, a key manganese alloy producer, has announced it will permanently halt underground mining at its Chiatura complex in Georgia. The decision follows an independent audit by DMT, a German consultancy, which found ore grades too low to process profitably.

The review cited “very high operating costs” and a continued slump in manganese concentrate prices, concluding that underground operations were economically unviable. Chiatura also includes open-pit mining, which remains under review.

Labor Disputes and Financial Pressures Escalate

Protests and strikes have plagued Chiatura since early 2023, with 70% of the mines affected before operations fully halted in November. The strike also forced the suspension of silico-manganese production at the Zestafoni smelter, a key facility for Georgian Manganese.

Chiatura Management (CMC), the operating contractor, failed to install cost-saving technology upgrades due to the unrest. During the shutdown, CMC continued paying workers, incurring loans worth 83 million lari ($29.9 million) to meet union obligations. These costs have now caused "colossal losses," according to CMC director Maxim Mazurenko.

US Exports Decline as Market Prices Fall

Georgia has long served as a major silico-manganese supplier to the United States, exporting 78,692 metric tonnes in 2023, or 22% of U.S. imports. However, shipments ceased in October, though some volumes still entered in November and January.

Meanwhile, spot prices for silico-manganese have fallen sharply to 56–60¢/lb, a 64% drop from the March 2022 peak of $1.50–1.70/lb, based on SUPERMETALPRICE. Prices remain in a tight band due to long-term contracts covering most U.S. steelmakers.

Georgian Manganese’s decision signals deeper challenges in the global manganese supply chain, especially for regions reliant on export-dependent alloy production.

US Bulk Alloy Imports Decline in 4Q 2024 Amid Global Supply Challenges

Silico-Manganese

Reduced shipments of ferro-alloys contribute to a 13% drop in bulk alloy imports.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, US imports of bulk alloys, including high-carbon ferro-chrome, silico-manganese, high-carbon ferro-manganese, and ferro-silicon, saw a notable decline. According to data from the US Commerce Department, total shipments dropped by 13% year-over-year, reaching 227,614 metric tonnes. This decrease reflects various challenges in global supply chains, including weather-related disruptions and production constraints in key export countries.

Surge in High-Carbon Ferro-Chrome Imports

Despite the overall decline, some specific alloys experienced significant shifts. High-carbon ferro-chrome shipments from Albania and Brazil saw substantial increases in the quarter. From just 25 tonnes last year, Albania's shipments surged to 14,948 tonnes, while Brazil's exports grew from zero to 8,997 tonnes. These gains helped partially offset the drops seen from other regions.

India’s Role in Silico-Manganese Imports

India played a critical role in boosting silico-manganese imports, with shipments to the US increasing by 15%, reaching 11,160 tonnes in the quarter. This rise in Indian exports helped balance declines from major suppliers like Georgia, Mexico, Australia, and South Africa. India's contribution to the overall import total for silico-manganese is a key development for the US alloy market.

Weather and Trade Issues Impact Other Imports

The drop in high-carbon ferro-manganese imports was particularly significant, falling by 45% due to weather-related events and production challenges in Malaysia and Australia. Additionally, the absence of Russian ferro-silicon from the US market further contributed to the year-over-year decline. The ongoing trade case targeting imports from Malaysia and Brazil also led to sharp decreases, with shipments from Malaysia dropping to zero and those from Brazil falling to 3,117 tonnes, down from 7,400 tonnes the previous year.

Full-Year Bulk Alloy Imports See Growth

Looking at the full year, total bulk alloy imports increased by 14% to 1.1 million tonnes, driven primarily by higher imports of high-carbon ferro-chrome and silico-manganese. Despite the quarterly decline, 2024 showed overall growth in bulk alloy imports compared to the previous year.

Bell Bay Manganese Smelter Sale Falters as Preferred Buyer Exits

Bell Bay

Bell Bay manganese smelter faces renewed uncertainty after Adroit Capital ended exclusive negotiations to acquire the 290,000 t/yr Tasmanian manganese alloy operation. The investment firm had led the preferred bidding consortium selected by administrator Ernst & Young.

Bell Bay manganese smelter has been offline since May 2025, when former owner GFG Alliance halted production because of feedstock shortages. The failed sale process now raises fresh questions over whether Australia's only manganese alloy smelter can return to operation.

Bell Bay manganese smelter remains strategically important because it produces ferro-manganese and silico-manganese used in steelmaking. A prolonged closure would increase Australia's dependence on imported manganese alloys.

The federal and Tasmanian governments have already provided A$9.6mn this year to maintain employee wages while the administration process continues.

Buyer Exit Deepens Restart Uncertainty

Adroit Capital was named preferred bidder last month, and Tasmania had expected the transaction to close by August.

The end of exclusive negotiations removes the clearest near-term path toward restarting the plant. Ernst & Young will now need to identify another buyer, restructure the sale process or consider alternative options for the asset.

The smelter's history already highlights the difficulty of maintaining manganese alloy production in Australia. GFG Alliance shut the operation after feedstock shortages disrupted production.

The Tasmanian government subsequently provided financing to support a restart, but GFG defaulted on that loan in January 2026. The asset then entered administration.

This sequence shows that ownership change alone may not solve Bell Bay's underlying problems. Any new operator will need reliable manganese ore supply, competitive electricity costs and sustainable alloy margins.

Those factors are especially important because manganese alloy smelting is highly energy intensive and exposed to volatility in both ore and power costs.

Australia Faces Greater Manganese Alloy Import Dependence

Bell Bay is Australia's only domestic producer of manganese alloys, giving the facility significance beyond its individual commercial performance.

Ferro-manganese and silico-manganese are essential deoxidising and alloying materials used in construction steel, rail products, automotive steel and other industrial applications.

If Bell Bay remains shut, Australian users will depend more heavily on imported alloys from overseas producers. That increases exposure to freight costs, trade disruption and international supply conditions.

The situation also creates a wider industrial policy problem. Australia has substantial mineral resources, but losing domestic alloy-processing capacity would weaken its ability to capture value further downstream.

Government support so far suggests policymakers recognise the strategic importance of preserving the asset. However, continued public funding cannot substitute indefinitely for a commercially viable operating model.

The next buyer will therefore need to solve the smelter's structural problems rather than simply acquire the facility at a lower price.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Adroit's exit shows that Bell Bay's challenge is deeper than finding a buyer. Australia must decide whether strategic manganese alloy capacity justifies the cost of solving feedstock, power and operating economics.

India Manganese Ore Duty Removal Cuts Ferro-Alloy Costs

India Manganese Ore

India manganese ore duty removal will lower raw material costs for domestic ferro-alloy producers after the government scrapped the 2.5% basic customs duty on imported manganese ore and concentrates.

India manganese ore duty removal is expected to reduce producer costs by around 1.25-2.5%, improving margins for silico-manganese and ferro-manganese smelters. The change also makes imported ore more competitive against domestic material.

India manganese ore duty removal comes as alloy producers face pressure from high ore and power costs. Lower import costs could strengthen export competitiveness and encourage producers to increase utilisation where market demand allows.

India imports around 5.5mn-6.5mn t/yr of manganese ore, making overseas supply structurally important to the country's steel and ferro-alloy industry.

Lower Ore Costs Strengthen Ferro-Alloy Producers

South Africa dominates India's manganese ore imports because its high-grade and chemically consistent material performs well in submerged-arc furnaces.

India also imports significant volumes from Gabon, Australia and Ghana. Around 2.03mn t entered the country during the first quarter of 2026.

Removing the customs duty directly improves the economics of imported feedstock. Producers can lower blended ore costs or increase the proportion of higher-grade imported material.

Silico-manganese and ferro-manganese producers should benefit most. These alloys are essential deoxidising and alloying inputs for structural steel, automotive steel, rail products and special steels.

Steel production typically consumes around 6-9kg of manganese per tonne of crude steel, linking ferro-alloy demand closely to Indian steel output.

High input costs had already encouraged some producers to shift from 60-14 silico-manganese toward higher-value 65% grades and 70-75% ferro-manganese.

Lower ore costs could improve the competitiveness of standard grades again while giving producers greater flexibility across their product mix.

The measure could also narrow India's export cost disadvantage against Malaysia. Malaysian ferro-alloy producers benefit from lower electricity costs, but cheaper manganese ore and Indian labour costs could reduce the gap.

Domestic Ore Producers Face Greater Import Competition

The policy creates pressure for domestic manganese miners because cheaper imports will increase buyers' negotiating power.

Moil could face greater competition, particularly from high-grade imported ore used by coastal smelters with easy access to ports.

Domestic prices may increasingly move toward import parity as smelters compare local supply directly with landed overseas material.

This could create inventory pressure for domestic miners if buyers increase the proportion of imported ore in their furnace blends.

However, the impact will vary by location and ore quality. Moil remains competitive for inland customers because domestic freight from ports can offset part of the import advantage.

Its material also remains suitable for applications where very high-grade ore is not required.

The broader policy direction is clear. India is prioritising lower industrial input costs to strengthen steel and manufacturing competitiveness.

Manganese has also been identified alongside lithium, cobalt and nickel under India's National Critical Minerals Mission, increasing its importance in the country's wider supply-chain strategy.

The Metalnomist Commentary

India is choosing downstream competitiveness over protection for domestic ore miners. The biggest beneficiaries will be ferro-alloy producers that can combine cheaper imported manganese with efficient power and higher furnace utilisation.

India's Manganese Alloy Imports Surge, Prompting EU Trade Protection Measures

Manganese Alloy

Rising Indian Imports Disrupt European Manganese Market

India's manganese alloy exports to Europe have surged, reshaping market dynamics and triggering a safeguard investigation by the European Commission. In January-November 2020, India accounted for only 3% of EU ferro-manganese imports, but by 2024, this share skyrocketed to 28%, totaling 104,376 metric tons.

The silico-manganese market also saw a dramatic shift. India’s share of EU silico-manganese imports grew from 10% in 2020 to 29% in 2024, reaching 164,722 metric tons. Other countries, including Georgia and Zambia, also expanded their presence, filling gaps left by Ukraine’s production collapse due to conflict with Russia.

European Producers Struggle to Compete

European manganese alloy producers have faced declining exports amid India's rising market share. France, Slovakia, and Spain saw major drops in silico-manganese exports between 2020 and 2024. France’s exports fell 64%, while Slovakia and Spain recorded declines of 35% and 11%, respectively.

Similarly, EU ferro-manganese exports have weakened. France's shipments fell 28%, while Slovakia’s exports dropped 47%. These declines stem not only from rising Indian competition but also from weaker demand in the EU stainless steel industry.

EU Commission Launches Safeguard Investigation

To protect European manganese and silicon-alloy producers, the European Commission initiated a safeguard investigation on December 19, 2024. Possible outcomes include higher customs duties or import quotas.

European buyers have increased their purchases of Indian manganese alloys in anticipation of potential restrictions, driving Indian manganese alloy prices higher in January. Meanwhile, Norwegian producers, who supply 40% of ferro-manganese and 35% of silico-manganese to Europe, are expected to receive exemptions from trade measures.

Moil Manganese Ore Prices Rise Sharply as Indian Supply Tightens

Moil

Moil manganese ore prices rose sharply for April as tight domestic availability and restricted imports pushed Indian buyers into a firmer market. State-owned Manganese Ore India increased prices across ferro-grade, silico-grade and fines material, reflecting stronger supply pressure across the domestic manganese chain.

Moil manganese ore prices for ferro-grade material with manganese content of 44% and above increased by 15% from March. Material below 44% manganese rose even more sharply, with prices up 17.5% for April.

Moil manganese ore prices also increased for 25% and 30% silico-grade ore and fines, both rising by 17.5% from March. The broad-based increase shows that tightness is affecting multiple ore grades rather than only high-grade ferro-alloy feedstock.

Domestic Ore Tightness Supports Ferro-Alloy Feedstock Prices

India manganese ore supply has become tighter as local availability remains constrained and imports face pressure from geopolitical disruptions. This has strengthened Moil’s pricing power at a time when ferro-alloy producers need reliable manganese feedstock.

Ferro-grade manganese ore is essential for ferro-manganese and silico-manganese production. These alloys are key inputs in steelmaking, where manganese improves strength, toughness and deoxidation performance.

The price increase is therefore important for Indian steel and alloy producers. Higher manganese ore costs can feed into ferro-alloy margins and eventually influence steelmaking input costs if producers cannot fully absorb the increase.

Moil Output Rose but Sales Stayed Largely Stable

Moil produced around 1.9mn t of manganese ore during the April 2025-March 2026 fiscal year, up 5.6% from the previous year. Sales volumes remained broadly stable at 1.58mn t over the same period.

The company produced around 164,000t and sold around 202,000t in March, despite supply chain constraints. This suggests that Moil maintained shipments, but broader market availability remained tight enough to support a strong April price increase.

For the Indian manganese market, the key issue is whether import constraints ease or domestic production can respond quickly. If supply remains tight, ferro-alloy producers may face continued cost pressure into the next pricing cycle.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Moil’s April price increase shows how quickly manganese ore pricing can react when domestic supply and import flows tighten together. For India’s steel value chain, manganese security is becoming more important as ferro-alloy costs remain exposed to both local mining output and global logistics risk.

China’s HBIS Raises October Manganese Alloy Tender Prices Amid Rising Steel Demand and Production Costs

HBIS

Hebei Iron and Steel (HBIS), one of China’s largest state-owned steel producers, has increased its October tender prices for manganese alloys, responding to higher steel output and rising production costs. The price hike reflects intensified demand for steel and growing costs of alloy feedstock.

HBIS’s initial October tender price for 12,000 tonnes of silico-manganese (65/17 grade) is set at 6,200 yuan per tonne (approximately $871/t) for delivery and acceptance bill payment, marking a 220 yuan/t increase from September. HBIS has also raised its purchase volume by 1,500 tonnes compared to the previous month. Industry negotiations with long-term alloy suppliers are ongoing.

Several alloy producers anticipate further price increases, projecting the silico-manganese bulk alloy price could reach 6,300 yuan/t as production costs have surged to 6,100-6,200 yuan/t due to more expensive ore feedstock.

Additionally, HBIS raised its October tender price for high-carbon ferro-manganese (65% grade) by 200 yuan/t to 5,900 yuan/t, with a purchase volume of 7,297 tonnes, up by 147 tonnes from September.

The surge in steel prices and demand—fueled by seaborne buyers—has led many mills to boost production since September, further supporting an uptrend in alloy feedstock prices. Data from the China Iron and Steel Association (CISA) show that crude steel output from member mills rose by 1.3% in late September, averaging 2.01 million tonnes per day between 21-30 September. CISA’s data encompasses over 100 of China’s largest steel mills.

Steel prices soared at the end of September, boosted by the Chinese government’s economic stimulus measures, including interest rate cuts and a lowered reserve requirement ratio for banks. China’s steel exports also climbed significantly, rising 26% year-on-year to 10.15 million tonnes in September, driven by strong overseas demand and favorable export prices.

Recent assessments show the 65/17 silico-manganese alloy grade priced higher by 200 yuan/t, reaching 5,800-5,900 yuan/t ex-works as of mid-October. Despite spot deals at these elevated prices, some alloy producers offered between 6,000-6,200 yuan/t ex-works. Meanwhile, the high-carbon ferro-manganese 65% grade held steady at 6,500-6,700 yuan/t ex-works, though many buyers were reluctant to engage in spot purchases at these levels.

Liberty Bell Bay Manganese Smelter Sale Aims to Preserve Australia’s Alloy Capacity

Liberty

Liberty Bell Bay manganese smelter assets in Tasmania are set to be sold to a consortium led by investment firm Adroit Capital, giving Australia’s only manganese alloy producer a potential path out of administration. The 290,000 t/yr smelter is a strategic asset for steelmaking, defence and construction supply chains.

Liberty Bell Bay manganese smelter operations have been under pressure since the site was shut in May 2025 by its former owner, GFG Alliance, because of feedstock shortages and maintenance requirements. The smelter produces ferro-manganese and silico-manganese, both essential alloying materials for steel production.

Liberty Bell Bay manganese smelter continuity is important because Australia has limited domestic ferro-alloy capacity. Losing the site permanently would increase dependence on imported manganese alloys for steelmakers and industrial users.

The Australian federal and Tasmanian state governments have now committed A$5mn to cover staff salaries until early August while administrator Ernst & Young finalises the sale with Adroit. That follows A$4.6mn in earlier support during April-May, bringing total recent government support to A$9.6mn.

Government Support Buys Time for a Strategic Smelter

The government funding gives the administrator more time to complete the transaction while preserving workforce continuity. This is critical because skilled labour, furnace knowledge and site readiness can be difficult to rebuild after a prolonged shutdown.

Tasmania’s government had already tried to support a restart under GFG. It provided a A$20mn bridging loan after the smelter was suspended in May 2025, helping operations resume in August.

However, GFG defaulted on that loan in January 2026, leading to the smelter entering administration. The sale process now shifts responsibility to a new investor group that must address the site’s core operating problems.

The key challenge remains feedstock security. Manganese alloy smelting depends on reliable ore supply, power costs, furnace availability and customer demand from steelmakers.

If Adroit can secure ore and stabilise operations, the smelter could again support domestic steel supply chains. If not, the asset risks remaining a strategic facility without a sustainable operating model.

Manganese Alloy Security Matters for Steelmaking

Manganese alloys are essential in steelmaking because they improve strength, toughness and deoxidation performance. Ferro-manganese and silico-manganese are widely used across construction steel, infrastructure, machinery and defence-related steel applications.

Australia’s reliance on a single domestic manganese alloy producer makes Liberty Bell Bay more important than its nameplate capacity alone suggests. The smelter represents industrial optionality in a market where supply security is becoming more politically relevant.

The sale also comes as global ferro-alloy markets face volatility from weak steel demand, feedstock constraints and trade measures. Domestic production can reduce exposure to import disruptions, but only if operating costs remain competitive.

For Tasmania, the site also carries regional employment and industrial policy importance. Keeping the workforce funded through the sale process reduces the risk of losing technical capability before a new owner takes control.

The Adroit-led consortium will need more than financial interest. It must prove that the smelter can operate with stable raw material supply, disciplined maintenance and a credible sales strategy.

The broader lesson is clear. Strategic metals capacity cannot survive on government support alone. It needs a bankable operating model that links feedstock, power, customers and long-term demand.

The Metalnomist Commentary

The Liberty Bell Bay sale is a test of whether Australia can preserve critical ferro-alloy capacity before it disappears. Manganese alloy supply may not attract the same attention as lithium or rare earths, but steelmaking security depends on assets like this.

South32 Gemco Manganese Operations Face Cyclone Narelle Supply Risk

South32, Gemco Manganese

South32 Gemco manganese operations are facing renewed weather-related disruption risk as Cyclone Narelle approaches Groote Eylandt in Australia’s Northern Territory. The company is moving non-essential personnel offsite while monitoring the incoming system with local emergency authorities.

The precautionary move comes as Cyclone Narelle is forecast to pass Groote Eylandt on Saturday afternoon. Australia’s Bureau of Meteorology expects the cyclone to reach category three strength by that time, bringing stronger wind and rain conditions to the island.

South32 Gemco manganese operations are important to the seaborne manganese ore market because Gemco is a major source of high-grade Australian ore. Any operational disruption could affect supply flows into China, where manganese ore demand is closely tied to steel and alloy production.

Groote Eylandt Weather Risk Returns After Cyclone Megan Disruption

Groote Eylandt has already shown how severe weather can affect manganese supply. South32 paused mining operations at Gemco for four months in March 2024 because of Cyclone Megan, and manganese exports from the site only resumed in May 2025.

That history makes the latest cyclone warning more significant for the market. Even if the current action is only precautionary, buyers and traders will watch closely for any damage to mining, haulage, port infrastructure, or export schedules.

South32 plans to produce 3.2 million tonnes of manganese at Gemco in July 2025-June 2026. Maintaining that output will be important for stabilizing supply after the previous weather-related disruption.

Manganese Ore Market Watches China Demand and Australian Supply

South32 Gemco manganese operations also sit at an important point in the pricing cycle. The company raised its March-delivery Australian 43pc lumpy manganese ore cif China price by $0.10/mtu to $5.20/mtu in late January, citing expectations for stronger Chinese demand after the lunar new year holidays.

Cyclone-related uncertainty could add another layer of support if the market sees a risk to Australian export availability. Manganese ore is essential for steelmaking through ferro-manganese and silico-manganese production, so supply interruptions can quickly influence alloy raw material sentiment.

For now, the key issue is whether Cyclone Narelle causes only a short safety response or a broader operational setback. The market will focus on site access, port conditions, and South32’s ability to maintain shipment schedules after the weather system passes.

The Metalnomist Commentary

South32’s latest move shows that manganese supply risk is increasingly shaped by weather resilience as much as mine capacity. For steel-linked raw materials, reliable logistics from vulnerable export hubs can become a pricing factor overnight.

South32 Manganese Ore Export Prices Fall as China Demand Weakens

South32 Manganese Ore

South32 manganese ore export prices to China have fallen for June shipments as weak alloy demand, ample port inventories and cautious buying pressure the import market. The Australian diversified metals producer lowered offers for both Australian and South African manganese ore, according to Chinese importers.

South32 manganese ore export prices for Australian 42% lumpy ore fell to $5.40/mtu cif China for June delivery. This was down by $0.50/mtu from May.

South32 also reduced its offer for South African 37% manganese ore to $5/mtu cif China. This was down by $0.40/mtu from the previous month.

South32 manganese ore export prices are an important signal for the wider manganese chain because China remains the largest global buyer of seaborne ore. When Chinese alloy plants slow purchases, overseas miners often need to adjust export offers to maintain sales momentum.

Chinese Alloy Weakness Cuts Restocking Appetite

Chinese importers have shown limited interest in restocking manganese ore because inventories remain sufficient and alloy prices are weakening. This has reduced spot buying urgency before the Labour Day holiday on 1-5 May.

Many alloy plants postponed ore feedstock purchases while waiting for clearer market direction after the holiday. This cautious behaviour has weakened the negotiating position of overseas ore suppliers.

The pressure is also visible in Chinese port prices. Australian 44-46% lumpy manganese ore fell to 43-47 yuan/mtu delivery ex quay on 28 April, down from 47-50 yuan/mtu on 31 March.

The decline shows that domestic buyers are not only resisting new import offers. They are also repricing available port material lower as downstream demand fails to improve.

Manganese ore demand is closely linked to ferro-manganese and silico-manganese production. These alloys are used in steelmaking, where manganese improves strength, deoxidation and performance.

When steel consumption slows, alloy plants reduce purchasing activity. This immediately affects ore demand because manganese alloy producers are the main consumers of imported ore.

Steel Demand Remains the Main Constraint

The deeper issue is weak steel demand in China. Slower economic growth and subdued construction activity have limited recovery in steel consumption, leaving alloy producers cautious about raw material buying.

Without a stronger steel recovery, manganese alloy prices are likely to remain under pressure. This limits the ability of alloy plants to pay higher ore prices, even when miners try to defend margins.

South32’s price cut also reflects wider seaborne competition. Mining firms outside China need to respond when Chinese buyers have enough stock and are unwilling to chase cargoes.

Australian high-grade lumpy ore usually commands stronger interest because of its quality and processing value. However, even higher-grade material can weaken when alloy margins are poor and port inventories are sufficient.

South African ore also remains exposed to Chinese demand swings. Lower-grade material can face sharper price pressure when buyers reduce procurement and focus only on immediate needs.

For the manganese market, the June price cut suggests that miners are prioritising volume discipline and customer access over holding elevated offers. The next price direction will depend on whether Chinese alloy plants return after the holiday with real restocking demand.

If steel demand remains weak, manganese ore prices could face further downside pressure. If alloy prices stabilise and inventories fall, importers may resume buying, but recovery is likely to be gradual.

The Metalnomist Commentary

South32’s price cut shows that the manganese market is being driven by demand absorption, not supply shortage. Until Chinese steel and alloy demand improves, seaborne manganese ore suppliers will remain exposed to cautious restocking and lower port prices.

India's Smiore to Boost Manganese Ore Production in Karnataka

India's Smiore

India's Sandur Manganese and Iron Ore (Smiore) has received environmental clearance to increase its manganese ore production capacity in Bellary, Karnataka. The company's plan, which has been approved by both the Environment Ministry and the Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB), will raise its manganese ore output from 430,000 tonnes per year to 550,000 tonnes per year under the Air and Water Act.

This expansion is expected to lead to increased production of ferro-manganese and silico-manganese, crucial alloys in steel manufacturing. However, the company has not yet specified a timeline for completing this project.

Expanding Production Amid Growing Demand

Smiore operates two mines with reserves estimated at 17 million tonnes of manganese ore and 117 million tonnes of iron ore. In the April-June quarter, the company sold 9,396 tonnes of ferro-alloy, marking a 35% year-on-year increase. This production boost positions Smiore to meet the rising demand for ferro-alloys in India and globally.

Moil Sets Record Manganese Production Amid Market Challenges

Moil

Indian state-owned enterprise Manganese Ore India Limited (Moil) has achieved unprecedented levels of manganese ore production. In October, Moil's output reached about 147,000 tons, a substantial 32% increase compared to the same month last year. This surge in production reflects a broader trend for the fiscal year April 2024 to March 2025, during which the company produced a total of 1.01 million tons, representing a 10% increase from the prior year.

Production and Market Dynamics

The increase in manganese ore production comes at a time when the global market faces significant volatility. Moil’s strategic ramp-up in production aligns with rising demand and tight supply dynamics. In October alone, the company sold 100,000 tons of ore, marking a 21% increase from the previous year. Over the first seven months of the fiscal year, Moil sold 850,000 tons, surpassing its sales records from the previous year due to constrained market supplies.

Pricing Adjustments

In response to market conditions, Moil adjusted its pricing strategy. The price for ferro-grade material with a manganese content of 44% and above was reduced by 7% from October levels. Additionally, prices for ore with less than 44% manganese content and for 25% and 30% silico-grade ore and fines saw a reduction of 1% from the previous month's prices.

This proactive approach in production and pricing reflects Moil's adaptation to the evolving market landscape, ensuring its position as a key player in the global manganese market.

Gabon Manganese Export Ban Takes Effect in 2029

Gabon Manganese Mining

Gabon announced a complete Gabon manganese export ban on unrefined ore starting January 2029. The world's second-largest manganese producer aims to boost domestic processing and industrial capacity. This transformative Gabon manganese export ban follows similar African resource nationalism strategies.

Major Impact on Global Manganese Supply Chains

Gabon produces 4.6 million tonnes annually, representing 25% of global manganese output. China and the US face significant supply disruptions from this policy change. Meanwhile, the US imported 63% of its manganese from Gabon last year. The ban threatens established supply chains for steel and battery industries worldwide.

French mining giant Eramet, through subsidiary Comilog, dominates Gabon's manganese sector. The company operates existing downstream facilities producing silico-manganese and manganese metal. However, current utilization remains low with only 18,000 tonnes exported in 2024. Comilog employs over 3,300 people locally, making workforce considerations critical.

African Resource Nationalism Accelerates

Several African nations now restrict raw material exports to capture value domestically. Guinea banned bauxite exports while Zimbabwe restricted lithium ore shipments recently. Furthermore, Mali and Tanzania implemented gold export restrictions this year. Therefore, the Gabon manganese export ban represents broader continental industrial ambitions.

President Brice Oligui Nguema emphasizes increased state revenues through downstream processing. Moreover, this strategy requires massive investment in new manganese alloy production capacity. As a result, international miners must develop processing plants or exit Gabon entirely. The five-year transition period allows stakeholders to adjust operations accordingly.

The Metalnomist Commentary

Gabon's 2029 manganese export ban creates immediate pressure on Western supply chains already strained by geopolitical tensions. With China controlling most manganese processing capacity globally, this move could paradoxically strengthen Beijing's market position unless Western nations rapidly develop alternative processing hubs. Eramet's underutilized facilities suggest the technical and economic challenges of African beneficiation remain substantial.

EU Launches Safeguard Investigation into Manganese, Silicon Alloys Imports

The European Commission

The European Commission has initiated a safeguard investigation into the import of manganese and silicon-based alloys and silicon metal, following concerns about the erosion of market share for EU producers. The probe, launched on December 19, focuses on a range of materials, including silicon metal, ferro-manganese, ferro-silicon, ferro-silico-manganese, ferro-silico-magnesium, and calcium-silicon.

The investigation, driven by industry body Euroalliages and certain member states, comes in response to a surge in global production capacity and rising imports, particularly from China, which has significantly impacted EU producers. Euroalliages Secretary-General Bob Lambrechts highlighted that China's excess production capacity could meet the EU’s demand multiple times over, raising alarm over increasing import shares.

Global spare production capacity for these materials exceeds 21 million tons per year, with another 13 million tons per year expected to be added. Meanwhile, declining demand in the EU’s steel and aluminium industries leaves the region unable to absorb these volumes.

Timeline and Possible Measures

The commission will accept comments, evidence, and information from stakeholders within 21 days of the announcement. If safeguard measures are deemed necessary, they could be implemented within nine months, with an optional two-month extension for exceptional circumstances.

In cases of urgent harm, the commission may impose provisional measures for up to 200 days while continuing its analysis. These actions are critical for stabilizing the market and protecting EU producers from potential dumping and unsustainable competition.

Strategic Materials and Trade Policies

Euroalliages emphasized the strategic importance of manganese, silicon alloys, and related materials to the EU’s industrial base. Lambrechts noted, “Times have changed, and you cannot primarily rely on countries that you cannot be sure will continue to supply.”

The investigation is part of a broader effort to strengthen the EU’s industrial value chain against external pressures and ensure long-term competitiveness. Lambrechts also underscored that this effort goes beyond traditional anti-dumping and anti-subsidy measures, signaling a more comprehensive approach to trade policy.

The Risk of Import Surges

The commission warned of potential imminent increases in imports due to trade protectionism measures in external countries, which could divert more volumes to the EU. Addressing these risks is crucial to preserving the EU’s industrial capacity and reducing reliance on unstable supply chains.