Southeast Asia Lead Supply Tightens, Premiums Rise Due to Environmental Measures and Shipping Delays

Published: May 15, 2026 15:24
[SMM Lead Market News] It was learned that since April, affected by environmental protection rectification and extended shipping cycles, lead smelters in Southeast Asia have experienced production cuts and shutdowns. Lead ingot supply has gradually tightened, spot premiums have risen, and high-grade lead ingots have even become difficult to source. Currently, the SMM Malaysia lead ingot 99.99-99.995% CIF premium was quoted at $150-170/mt, with a few suppliers once again making exploratory offers at a premium of $200/mt, though no transactions have been concluded at this price.

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[SMM Lead Market News] It was learned that since April, affected by en - Shanghai Metals Market (SMM)