The western antimony market is reportedly coming back to life after the year-end standstill. According to sources, demand has increased substantially as consumers resume buying. As a result, prices have increased as European antimony is presently $9,600-9,800 per mt, ex-warehouse Rotterdam, compared to $9,400-9,700 per mt last week. “The market was fairly stable during the holiday break,” said a source. “But now that everyone seems to be back, demand is on the rise.” Truckload sales were reported at $9,750 per mt, while a multi-truckload transaction was indicated at $9,680 per mt. The US market is keeping the same trend as prices have been on the rise with demand being reignited since the New Year holiday. Prices are presently $4.45-4.50 per lb for antimony within the US market, compared $4.30-4.40 per lb the week prior. Sources noted that there has been a notable increase in inquiries as buyers seem eager to acquire material for first quarter requirements, and as a result, there is limited spot supply availability. Several truckload and multi-truckload negotiations were reported with a number of sales confirmed at $4.48 per lb.

• [Editor:editor]