SHANGHAI, Jan 22 (SMM) — Operating rates across primary lead smelters in Henan, Hunan and Yunnan gained 1.1 percentage points from the previous week to 55.2% in the week ended January 22, showed an SMM survey.

The operating rate in Henan increased 2.3 percentage points to 66% as some smelters completed their maintenance. Henan Minshan and Xinling are still in suspension. Henan Xinling plans to start operation on January 25, Henan Shibin resumed production on January 20, and Henan Hongyang slightly increased production.

The operating rate in Hunan stood at 51.1%, flat from the previous week. Hunan Shuikoushan Zhihui smelter plans to start a 10-day maintenance at the end of January. As the end of the maintenance coincides with the Chinese New Year, the official ignition will be delayed until the end of CNY.

The operating rate in Yunnan was 35.2%, flat on the week. Anhui Tongguan completed maintenance on January 18 and is expected to output lead ingots in late January.