SHANGHAI, Feb 19 (SMM) – Prices of high-grade silicon increased significantly from levels before the Chinese New Year holiday on the back of an increase in purchases from overseas buyers and low inventories at domestic smelters and social warehouses.
A coronavirus outbreak extended the suspension of silicon makers in China’s major production areas of Yunnan, Fujian and Hunan, and this accounted for current low stocks of silicon metal. Some restrictions on raw materials shipment amid the virus impact lifted production costs, which also prompted silicon mills to raise offers.
As of February 19, prices of 3303# silicon in Kunming, Yunnan province, stood at 12,500-12,600 yuan/mt, up 350 yuan/mt a week earlier and up 450 yuan/mt from January 23, SMM assessments showed.
Prices of 2202# silicon in Kunming rose as much as 500 yuan/mt from January 23 and stood at 13,200-13,400 yuan/mt as of February 19. Offers from silicon plants increased close to 1,000 yuan/mt from January 23, SMM learned.
