As manganese stocks reach saturation in key markets, United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK), South Africa’s fourth-largest manganese exporter, has announced a strategic pause in all road freight transportation of manganese, opting to rely exclusively on rail.
“Currently, stockpiles in major markets like China are robust, leading to a decline in demand,” said Chief Executive Malcolm Curror.
“While manganese prices experienced a buoyant period earlier this year, it was short-lived, and the current market conditions do not justify the use of multiple transportation methods.”
In conjunction with this shift, UMK will also limit exports to better align with supply and demand dynamics. Curror emphasized that this approach aims to promote responsible resource management while adapting to fluctuating market trends.
“UMK remains committed to optimizing operational efficiency and minimizing disruptions to business continuity by exclusively using rail for manganese exports,” Curror noted.
“The company will continue to monitor global market conditions and adjust its strategy as necessary to ensure sustainable growth.”
Established in 2005, UMK is 51% black-owned and dedicated to adapting to the evolving landscape of the manganese market.
