India's Manganese Alloy Imports Surge, Prompting EU Trade Protection Measures

Manganese Alloy

Rising Indian Imports Disrupt European Manganese Market

India's manganese alloy exports to Europe have surged, reshaping market dynamics and triggering a safeguard investigation by the European Commission. In January-November 2020, India accounted for only 3% of EU ferro-manganese imports, but by 2024, this share skyrocketed to 28%, totaling 104,376 metric tons.

The silico-manganese market also saw a dramatic shift. India’s share of EU silico-manganese imports grew from 10% in 2020 to 29% in 2024, reaching 164,722 metric tons. Other countries, including Georgia and Zambia, also expanded their presence, filling gaps left by Ukraine’s production collapse due to conflict with Russia.

European Producers Struggle to Compete

European manganese alloy producers have faced declining exports amid India's rising market share. France, Slovakia, and Spain saw major drops in silico-manganese exports between 2020 and 2024. France’s exports fell 64%, while Slovakia and Spain recorded declines of 35% and 11%, respectively.

Similarly, EU ferro-manganese exports have weakened. France's shipments fell 28%, while Slovakia’s exports dropped 47%. These declines stem not only from rising Indian competition but also from weaker demand in the EU stainless steel industry.

EU Commission Launches Safeguard Investigation

To protect European manganese and silicon-alloy producers, the European Commission initiated a safeguard investigation on December 19, 2024. Possible outcomes include higher customs duties or import quotas.

European buyers have increased their purchases of Indian manganese alloys in anticipation of potential restrictions, driving Indian manganese alloy prices higher in January. Meanwhile, Norwegian producers, who supply 40% of ferro-manganese and 35% of silico-manganese to Europe, are expected to receive exemptions from trade measures.