Silicon Metal Offers Declined in Japan

Offer prices for Chinese silicon metal, holding by far the biggest share in Japan, are USD 1,888 to 1,900 per tonne CIF Japan, down by USD 50 to 100 per tonne compared to the prices offered at the beginning of April. The domestic prices in China have weakened based on the forecast that production will increase in southern China, a leading production area of silicon metal where rainy season, which usually comes in May, is approaching. As a result, offer prices to Japan also declined. It was in May/June of 2009 or about 4 years ago, when the offer prices on CIF Japan basis dipped below USD 1,900 per tonne.