Rare Earth Oxide Inquiry Activity Increases, Metal Market Remains Sluggish [SMM Weekly Review]

SMM January 2 News:

Rare Earth Ore:

During the week, rare earth ore prices remained relatively firm. According to miners, although the Longchuan and Diantan border crossings have resumed operations, the Banwa region requires miners to withhold 20% of their goods as resource fees, and the Maizayang region even demands a deduction of 33%. Miners are unwilling to comply with these policies, resulting in a delayed recovery of Myanmar ore imports.

Rare Earth Oxides:

This week, lanthanum oxide prices remained stable at 3,800-4,200 yuan/mt, while cerium oxide prices also stayed steady at 7,600-8,000 yuan/mt. Throughout the week, rare earth oxide prices were relatively stable overall, with medium-heavy rare earth oxide prices showing a slight upward trend. It is reported that some domestic raw ore separation enterprises are expected to suspend production for maintenance starting in January, leading to an anticipated reduction in actual oxide supply. Most market participants are no longer pessimistic about rare earth oxide price trends before the Chinese New Year, and market inquiry activity has increased. Yttrium oxide prices continued to remain stable this week at 40,000-43,000 yuan/mt.

Rare Earth Metals:

On the metals side, due to the relatively stable prices of rare earth oxides, metal producers have also maintained firm quotations recently. However, as magnetic material enterprises are expected to gradually enter holiday mode, market inquiry and transaction activity for metal products has been relatively subdued, and metal prices have remained stable in recent days.

Rare Earth Permanent Magnets:

This week, the overall atmosphere in the magnetic material market was relatively subdued. As most enterprises are expected to begin their holidays around January 20, market purchasing enthusiasm has been low, and inquiry activity has decreased. Nevertheless, the market continues to monitor the overall release of orders. However, due to persistently weak downstream demand, enterprises remain pessimistic about future market prospects.

Rare Earth Scrap:

As year-end approaches, enterprises generally prefer to reduce inventory, with inventory management strategies focused on minimizing stock levels. Market transaction volumes have gradually declined. Although scrap supply remains sufficient, enterprises are placing greater emphasis on cost control, adopting more cautious procurement strategies.

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