SHANGHAI, July 25 (SMM) - China’s total exports of manganese ore stood at 2.36 million mt in June, up 5% month on month but down 7% year on year, according to SMM statistics. Imports totalled 14.1 million mt from January to June 2022. The exports stood at 1,500 mt in June, and the total exports from January to June was 14,000 mt. The domestic production of manganese alloys mainly depends on imported manganese ore because the grade of manganese ore in China is low.

The import volume of manganese ore in June slightly increased because the domestic port inventory decreased, which led to the rise in the prices of manganese ore. Although the overseas prices were high, some players were bullish about the market outlook, hence the imports increased slightly month-on-month. In addition, due to the continuous rise in overseas prices, the market is in fear of high prices and the concentration rate of mineral rights is gradually increasing. It is expected that the import volume may decline in July.