Japanese magnesium users, such as aluminium re-rollers, and Chinese magnesium refineries almost completed price negotiations for January-March shipment. The price is set at CIF $ 2,690-2,780 per tonne, up by $ 70-80 from October-December, according to Japanese trader source. Japanese magnesium users are gradually increasing procurement volume and the demand seems recovering to the level as high as in 2007.

 

Chinese magnesium suppliers currently offer $ 2,770-2,780. The offer price surged by about $ 100 in the late month. According to Tak Trading, Tokyo based nonferrous metal trading house, magnesium price is rising due to rapid cost up for metallic silicon and electric power charge.

 

Chinese magnesium export is slightly increasing for Japan while maintains low for Europe, the main importer. Chinese magnesium refineries are still under the operation rate as low as 20-30%. Chinese domestic demand is steady for magnesium but the export hasn't recovered. In addition, domestic inventory of magnesium ingot, powder and alloy seems to keep excess. Magnesium supply remains surplus against the actual demand.（JMB）