SHANGHAI, Nov. 18 (SMM) - SMM undertook a survey and found that the average operating rate at die-casting zinc alloy producers in October was 51%, down 2% on the month.

Most enterprises surveyed are located in Shanghai, Zhejiang, Jiangsu, Fujian and Guangdong.

Most die-casting zinc alloy producers produced to orders in October. Most enterprises maintained normal production during the Chinese National Day holiday. Some enterprises engaging in home sales reported orders did not improve during September-October, with output falling. As China’s macroeconomic situations remained tight and China’s new credit loans in October hit a 10-month low of RMB 506.1 billion, the average operating rate at SMEs was below the national average due to cash flow tightness.

Strong zipper consumption will boost demand for zinc alloy in November. But operating rates in the real estate sector will fall as winter set in, especially in north China. Demand for hardware and bathroom accessories will also weaken. Operating rates at die-casting zinc alloy producers in November should remain steady in November.