Ann: 31 March 2020 Quaterly Market Update, page-76

India’s Moil hikes Mn ore prices by 45pc
Published date: 04 May 2020

State-owned Indian producer Moil has increased May prices for manganese ore by 45pc from April in line with higher seaborne ore prices because of limited output from miners globally.
The increase applies to ferro grade and silico-manganese ore with an Mn content of 30pc and 25pc, fines and chemical grades. After hiking prices for January and February, Moil rolled over February prices for most ore shipments into March and April. Restrictions imposed due to Covid-19 lockdowns in major ore-producing countries have led to limited output and supplies, leading to a hike in prices.
The Delhi government has extended the nationwide lockdown to 17 May from 3 May and has marked various districts in the country into red, orange and green zones. Industrial activities are permitted in green and orange zones, while in red zones certain activities only are allowed. The government is allowing industrial estates, special economic zones and industrial townships with restricted entry within urban areas of red zones to commence operations.
Industry bodies have urged the government to let all industrial units, including in non-notified industrial areas and standalone units, be allowed to function in the urban areas of red zones. Travel restrictions on air, rail and inter-state bus transport remain restricted until 17 May.
Resumption of operations

Last month, Moil was forced to close operations at its mines in Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh states following unsuccessful efforts to continue operating during the lockdown. After receiving permission to restart operations, the firm has resumed work at its mines, with current capacity utilisation estimated at 20pc. The firm plans to increase this in a phased manner, in line with government directives.