SHANGHAI, Jul. 12 (SMM) – The average operating rate at Chinese EMM producers is around 50% for the time being. Operating rate at EMM producers in Guangxi edges higher, up to around 46%, as larger producers have gradually commenced capacity owing to government subsidy. Operating rate at producers in Chongqing's Xiushan has risen to 64% amid gradually started capacity. Operating rate at producers in Hunan, however, remains relatively low in the face of no advantages in electricity price as well as manganese ore price. Operating rate at producers in Ningxia and Hubei, though, stays stable.

In SMM's view, current average operating rate is comparatively high since EMM demand and supply is generally in balance when it's around 45%. Hence, SMM holds the view that domestic EMM prices will remain weak before major EMM producers halt operations.