Silico-manganese prices in China strengthened in early March as post holiday demand rebounded and upstream cost pressures tightened supply. Silico manganese spot availability remained limited due to logistical bottlenecks, elevated energy costs, and firmer ore prices, while cyclone related freight delays and higher bunker surcharges added further strain. Although new furnace capacity in Inner Mongolia began ramping up, domestic supply still accounts for 97% of consumption, prompting mills and distributors to secure tonnage amid ore tightness. Weekly prices continued rising into early March, approaching the low $800s. ChemAnalyst expects firmer Silico-manganese pricing through March and April before mild corrections in May–June. Middle East tensions are adding freight surcharges and route risks around Hormuz and Bab el Mandeb, increasing uncertainty and potentially curbing export volumes.
