Silicon metal: The output of silicon metal in April dropped slightly MoM

China's output of silicon metal was 358,700 mt in April, down 8,000 mt or 2.1% MoM but up 23.2% YoY. The output totalled 1.4159 million mt in January-April, up 257,100 mt or 22.2% YoY.

The spot price of silicon metal accelerated declines in March. Although the drop narrowed in April, the market maintained procurement based on demand amid a bearish outlook. Some small silicon companies with weak risk resistance cut production in April amid losses, mainly in Yunnan, Gansu and Shaanxi. With advantages in the industrial chain and corporate strategies, leading silicon enterprises maintained stable operating rates. Specifically, large factories in Xinjiang gradually ramped up production in April. Their output hit a historical high in early May after technical upgrading.

In May, few companies resumed production in Sichuan, restricted by costs and profits. Some took a wait-and-see stance, waiting for the rainy season. The restarting manufacturers in Yunnan were concentrated in Baoshan, while silicon companies in Dehong Prefecture and other places had no plans to resume or increase production in May. Most medium and large-scale silicon companies in north China maintained normal production. As leading companies ramp up production, silicon metal output is expected to increase to 370,000 mt in May.