China's high-carbon ferrochrome imports saw a slight monthly increase in April 2026, though year-on-year figures remain significantly lower. Market pressure is mounting as oversupply drives down spot retail prices, while downstream stainless steel demand remains sluggish. In South Africa, production is recovering as major producers like Glencore resume operations at the Lion smelter. This recovery is supported by new preferential electricity tariffs from Eskom, which are expected to increase future export volumes to China.
