SHANGHAI, Jun. 19 (SMM) – Secondary lead smelters saw thinner profits this past week as raw material costs dropped more slowly than finished goods prices, SMM learned.

Secondary lead quotes at 11,700 yuan per tonne (tax excluded) in Shandong whereas smelting cost is as high as 11,780-11,875 yuan per tonne, leaving no room for profits. Although smelters gained from by-products, including ash flue and plastic, they were left with meager margins after spending on water and power, factory rent, and equipment amortization were included.

Main trading prices for secondary lead were 12,600-12,750 yuan per tonne (including tax) this week with average price down 40 yuan per tonne to 12,675 yuan per tonne.

Average price for scrap automobile batteries (white shell) and motive batteries fell 20 yuan per tonne on a weekly basis, reducing smelting cost by 30-34 yuan per tonne.

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