【SMM Analysis】Chrome Ore Imports Dip Slightly in April; Sluggish Demand Drags Market Down

May 20, 2026 News

According to China Customs data, China’s total chromite ore imports stood at 2.3278 million tons in April 2026, down 4.6% month-on-month while rising 53.65% year-on-year.

• Imports from South Africa: 1.7938 million tons, down 8.8% MoM, up 46.3% YoY
• Imports from Turkey: 260,800 tons, up 156.74% MoM, surging 772.98% YoY
• Imports from Zimbabwe: 169,800 tons, up 0.42% MoM, up 35.48% YoY

From January to April 2026, China’s cumulative chromite ore imports hit 8.7824 million tons, a year-on-year increase of 37.42%.

• South Africa: 7.002 million tons, up 32.67% YoY
• Turkey: 547,000 tons, up 166.09% YoY
• Zimbabwe: 739,000 tons, up 34.74% YoY

Affected by ferrochrome production halts overseas, especially in South Africa, global chromite ore shipments have remained at a high level. SMM data shows global bulk chromite ore outbound shipments reached 2.679 million tons in March 2026.

Driven by ample arrivals, port stocks of chromite ore have climbed to a high level of 4 million tons recently. Inventory holders face mounting selling pressure and commonly offer price concessions to clear stocks.

Downstream ferrochrome sales are sluggish with spot quotations trending lower. Smelters are reluctant to accept high-priced raw materials, mainly consuming existing ore stocks with limited new purchasing demand. Meanwhile, major overseas mines have cut offer prices. The market sees stalemated bargaining and prevalent wait-and-see sentiment. The chromite ore market is expected to remain weak and fluctuating in the short term.