SHANGHAI, May 26, (SMM) – Major stainless steel producers have not yet begun purchasing EMM. #200 stainless steel producers’ purchasing prices and volumes may be depressed given the sluggish #200 stainless steel market. EMM exports may pick up slightly before upcoming summer break overseas, but overall EMM demand remains lackluster. Operating rates at major EMM producing regions were down slightly, but still hovered around 50%. EMM monthly output at major producing regions was 97,000 mt, creating a slight supply glut. SMM expects EMM prices to remain sluggish given current market fundamentals. On the other hand, manganese ore prices and electricity prices at major EMM producing regions will not be cut for the moment, with EMM marginal costs around RMB 12,800/mt. This will impede any substantial decline in EMM prices, which are expected at RMB 12,900/mt.