Indonesian MHP Nickel and Cobalt FOB Prices Drop, High-Grade Nickel Matte Rises

Typhoon Kujira is forecast to pass close to northwestern Luzon on August 5, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and rough seas to northern Philippines. While adverse weather may temporarily affect shipping in northern waters, the country's major nickel-producing regions are expected to remain largely unaffected, limiting the impact on nickel ore exports. Meanwhile, Typhoon Dolphin is forecast to weaken from Category 3 (100 kt) on August 5 to Category 1 (78 kt) by August 8, before approaching China's southeastern coast with sustained winds of around 68 kt on August 9–10. Strong winds and rough seas could temporarily disrupt vessel arrivals and cargo handling at ports around Ningde, Fujian, while the risk to Lianyungang remains relatively limited under the current forecast track. Overall, any impact on Philippine nickel ore shipments to China is expected to be localized and short-lived.

According to SMM data, on August 5, the SMM average price of battery-grade nickel sulphate decreased by 5 yuan/mt from yesterday.