Exclusive: China’s NPI output shrank 2.2% MoM to 42,700 mt Ni in November

Published: Dec 8, 2020 11:13
China’s NPI output shrank 2.2% from October to 42,700 mt Ni in November.

SHANGHAI, Dec 8 (SMM)—China’s NPI output shrank 2.2% from October to 42,700 mt Ni in November. This included 35,100 mt Ni of high-grade NPI, down 2.3% on the month, and 7,600 mt Ni of low-grade NPI, down 2.2% month on month. High-grade NPI output extended declines in November as large-scale NPI plants reduced output or operating capacity, and the output cuts are expected to expand in December as raw materials inventories are running low. Low-grade NPI output fell slightly in November though an integrated #200 stainless steel mill recovered from maintenance.   

SMM expects China’s NPI output to fall 6.8% on the month to 39,800 mt Ni in December. Output of high-grade NPI is likely to shrink 9.3% to 31,900 mt Ni, while that of low-grade NPI to rise 4.9% to 7,900 mt Ni due to commissioning of new capacity at the integrated #200 stainless steel mill.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM‘s internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

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