SHANGHAI, Dec 17 (SMM) – The social inventory of lead ingots across Shanghai, Guangdong, Zhejiang, Jiangsu and Tianjin decreased 3,000 mt from December 10 and 2,100 mt from December 13 to 117,400 mt as of December 17.

The domestic supply of lead ingots gradually increased, but the supply in some regions remained tight. As the lead prices rose strongly during the week, the discounts of secondary refined lead expanded to 500 yuan/mt over the average price of SMM 1# lead (ex-factory). The downstream users reduced their purchases, and tended to purchase from smelters. As such, the social inventory of lead ingots declined more slowly.

The enterprises from the lead industry chain will continue to collect funds in late December, and the downstream purchases may be suspended next week. The social inventory of lead ingots is expected to fall more slowly next week.