Supply concerns bolster low-grade silicon prices in May

[SMM Flash] Sinomine Resource Group is in talks to acquire Globe Metals & Mining’s Kanyika niobium development project in Malawi. The potential transaction would bring the Chinese critical-minerals group closer to a project it is already supporting through Sinomine International (Zambia) Engineering, which has been involved in early construction and development works at Kanyika. Globe began construction in January 2026 under a cost-reimbursable collaboration agreement, while first oxide production is targeted for the first quarter of 2028. Kanyika is positioned as a potential source of niobium and tantalum oxides, with Globe’s 2026 project plan targeting approximately 3,000 tonnes per year of Nb₂O₅ and 150 tonnes per year of Ta₂O₅ at full scale. Globe has previously retained full ownership and offtake rights while using Sinomine’s regional construction and processing expertise. Any acquisition would strengthen Sinomine’s exposure to niobium outside China and could add another strategic African critical-minerals asset to its expanding international portfolio.

According to the latest data released by the General Administration of Customs and compiled by SMM, China's silicon-manganese alloy exports reached 8,370.87 tons​ in July 2026, surging 132.05% month-on-month (MoM)​ and 252.24% year-on-year (YoY). For the first seven months of 2026, cumulative exports totaled 33,227.15 tons, up 102.05% YoY.The monthly figure appears impressive at first glance, but a rational assessment is warranted.

[SMM Flash] Trekor Metals on August 19 provided an update on its wholly owned Aley niobium project in northeastern British Columbia, reporting progress in its proprietary flotation process that has delivered higher niobium recoveries, improved concentrate grades and reduced reagent consumption. The company said the resulting concentrate has been successfully processed into market-grade ferroniobium, a key input for specialty steel production, while work is also underway to evaluate direct production of high-purity niobium oxide. Trekor has appointed Steve Sparkowich as Director, Aley Niobium, to support technical development, market positioning and commercial strategy. According to the company’s existing NI 43-101 technical report, Aley contains 84 million tonnes of proven and probable reserves grading 0.50% Nb₂O₅, with a planned processing rate of 10,000 tonnes per day and projected annual capacity of 14,000 tonnes of ferroniobium over a 24-year mine life. Following successful pilot testing and ferroniobium production, Trekor is now scaling up the programme and shifting its focus towards product marketing, potential offtake parties and processors. The company’s current update indicates continued progress towards commercial development, although the project remains subject to development, financing, permitting and other risks.