Manganese Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 11101900
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Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026
  • Commodity Pricing

manganese Price Trends by Country

auAustralia
zaSouth Africa

Global manganese Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides price assessments for Ammonium Nitrate across top trading regions:

North America

  • Ammonium Nitrate FOB New Orleans (USA)


Europe

  • Ammonium Nitrate FOB St. Petersburg (Russia)
  • Ammonium Nitrate FOB Varna (Bulgaria)


South America

  • Ammonium Nitrate CFR Santos (Brazil) Russia


Note:
In assessments structured as CIF [Importing Port] (Exporting Country), the country mentioned in brackets indicates the primary origin of supply (exporting country), while the named port refers to the destination port in the importing country. Other Incoterms (FOB, FD, EXW, etc.) should be interpreted in accordance with standard international trade definitions

Ammonium Nitrate Trend Q4 2025

The Ammonium Nitrate Industry experienced a decrease of 9 percent in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025 when compared to the third quarter (Q3). The decline has been the result of weakness in agricultural purchasing due to completion of the peak fertilizer application cycle. The agricultural sector has reduced consumer spending; food and farming products have been procured based on actual need rather than on speculation about future demand, resulting in less off-take from the key producing areas. Supply conditions improved throughout the quarter as producers maintained steady operating rates; there has been adequate product available in the domestic market. The prices of both ammonia and nitric acid (feedstock) have stabilized with slight declines, causing manufacturers to have less cost pressure and to be able to lower their price momentum. Production levels have been steady but there has been sufficient inventory to limit upward price movement. Opportunities for exporting have been somewhat limited as global agricultural demand has been weak and buyers have been negotiating prices competitively. Overall, there has been normalizing supply and demand in the agricultural sector, as well as softening feedstock support, resulting in downward price pressure during the quarter.

Russia: Ammonium Nitrate Export prices St. Petersburg, Russia

The Ammonium Nitrate price trend in Russia through Q4 2025 reflected a pronounced bearish movement, with prices declining sharply by 15% quarter-on-quarter as agricultural demand weakened considerably following the completion of peak fertilizer application activities. Distributors and cooperatives shifted toward need-based procurement, limiting fresh bulk purchases through the quarter. Supply conditions remained comfortable, underpinned by steady production rates and sufficient domestic inventory availability. Feedstock ammonia and nitric acid costs held stable-to-softer, aided by moderate natural gas prices, easing upstream cost pressure on producers. In December 2025, Ammonium Nitrate prices in Russia recovered by 6%, driven by short-term restocking and improved year-end procurement demand, closing the quarter on a cautiously stable note.

Bulgaria: Ammonium Nitrate Export prices Varna, Bulgaria

As of Q4 2025, the trend of the prices of ammonium nitrate in Bulgaria indicate a substantial correction of 9% quarter on quarter and primarily due to a decline in the level of demand from agriculture after the conclusion of the main application season for fertilizers. Distributors had sufficient inventories on hand and only procured new product, with few exceptions, where necessary; as a result, consumptive momentum has been limited. Supply remains comfortable with a combination of continued domestic production and available stock in warehouses. The cost of feedstock ammonia and nitric acid remained stable or weak, primarily due to moderate prices for natural gas, which eased the cost pressure on producers from an upstream perspective. Bulgarian prices for ammonium nitrate in December 2025 continued to remain stable due to a balanced supply and demand situation in the ammonium nitrate market, combined with limited spot activity that produced a generally soft but controlled market in December.

USA: Ammonium Nitrate FOB New Orleans, USA

The Ammonium Nitrate price trend in USA through Q4 2025 reflected a firm upward movement, with prices rising 4% quarter-on-quarter supported by steady agricultural demand during the winter fertilizer replenishment cycle. Distributors restocked consistently ahead of early spring planting requirements, sustaining healthy consumption momentum. Domestic producers maintained disciplined operating rates, keeping inventory levels manageable while ensuring adequate availability across key farming states. Feedstock ammonia and nitric acid prices held relatively firm, underpinned by stable natural gas costs and reinforcing upstream pricing strength. In December 2025, Ammonium Nitrate prices in USA firmed a further 1%, supported by year-end restocking and continued feedstock strength, closing the quarter with controlled optimism.

Brazil: Ammonium Nitrate Imported prices in Santos, Brazil from Russia

The Ammonium Nitrate price trend in Brazil through Q4 2025 reflected a notable correction, with prices declining 12% quarter-on-quarter as agricultural demand eased following the completion of major fertilizer application cycles. Wholesalers and farm cooperatives limited purchases to essential volumes amid comfortable inventory positions, dampening consumption momentum considerably. Domestic producers maintained balanced operating rates, ensuring adequate product availability across core farming regions without excessive stock accumulation. Feedstock ammonia and nitric acid costs softened marginally, influenced by moderate natural gas trends, reducing upstream cost pressure on finished pricing. In December 2025, Ammonium Nitrate prices in Brazil rebounded firmly by 7%, driven by pre-season restocking activity and improved procurement sentiment, closing the quarter on a cautiously stable note.

Manganese Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Manganese market exhibited a mixed trend, with overall prices showing a slight incline of around 0.14% compared to the previous quarter. The modest increase was largely supported by steady demand from the steel and alloy industries, which remain the primary consumers of manganese globally. In key producing regions such as Australia and South Africa, consistent mining output and moderate restocking by industrial buyers provided mild support to prices.

Meanwhile, subdued industrial activity in other regions limited further gains. Supply-side factors, including stable production levels and logistical constraints in certain areas, contributed to localized price fluctuations. Overall, the market remained balanced, reflecting cautious demand growth and stable supply conditions, with near-term sentiment showing moderate optimism.

Australia: Manganese Export prices FOB Brisbane, Australia, Purity: 45%min.

According to the PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the manganese price trend in Australia declined by 1.37% compared to the previous quarter, reflecting softer demand from the steel and ferroalloy manufacturing sectors. Moderated downstream consumption, coupled with steady domestic production and stable export volumes, contributed to the mild price decline.

Additionally, competitive international supply from other major producers, particularly South Africa and Brazil, applied slight downward pressure on market sentiment. Overall, the market remained relatively balanced, with producers managing output and inventories carefully to maintain stability amid subdued demand.

Manganese prices in Australia declined by 1.83% in September 2025, primarily due to softened demand from the steel and alloy manufacturing sectors amid slower industrial activity. Steady domestic production and adequate inventory levels further contributed to the downward pressure on prices, while export inquiries remained moderate.

Overall, the manganese market in Australia during Q3 2025 exhibited a softening trend, with expectations of gradual stabilization in Q4 as downstream demand and global steel production show signs of recovery.

South Africa: Manganese Export prices FOB Santos, South Africa, Purity: 38%min.

According to the PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, the manganese price trend in South Africa inclined by 1.65% compared to the previous quarter, supported by steady demand from the steel and ferroalloy industries. Increased procurement by downstream manufacturers and healthy export orders, particularly to Asia, contributed to the upward momentum.

Additionally, stable production levels and controlled supply from local mines helped sustain price firmness. Overall, the market exhibited a positive sentiment, with producers balancing output and inventories to meet consistent industrial demand throughout the quarter.

Manganese prices in South Africa declined by 1.51% in September 2025, mainly due to subdued demand from the steel and alloy manufacturing sectors amid slower global industrial activity. Adequate domestic supply and steady export availability further weighed on prices, limiting any upward momentum.

Overall, the manganese market in South Africa during Q3 2025 reflected a mild downward trend, with expectations of gradual stabilization in Q4 as downstream demand and international steel production gradually improve.

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, manganese ore prices declined by $5.50 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane marking a 13.16% drop amid weakening global demand and elevated inventories in key markets like China. The price softening reflects reduced buying from alloy producers facing tighter margins and a cautious steel sector, leading to subdued short-term sentiment.

Despite the decline, prices remain above key production thresholds for major Australian miners, suggesting supply cuts are unlikely in the near term. Additionally, output in Australia is gradually recovering following earlier weather-related disruptions, while the market anticipates a potential rebound in demand later in the year, particularly if infrastructure and construction activity intensify. 

In the first quarter of 2025, manganese prices experienced a modest decline, dropping by $6.33 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane which represents a 0.66% decrease. This slight downturn suggests a relatively stable market with only minor fluctuations. The price drop could be attributed to factors such as easing demand in key industrial sectors, slight improvements in supply chain logistics, or shifts in global trade dynamics.

Despite the decrease, the marginal percentage change indicates that manganese remains largely steady in value, reflecting balanced market conditions amid ongoing economic uncertainties. 

Manganese Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, manganese prices are projected to increase by $6 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane reflecting a modest rise of approximately 1.51%. This incremental price growth suggests steady demand within key industries such as steel manufacturing and battery production, supported by ongoing infrastructure development and a gradual shift towards electric vehicles.

While the increase is moderate, it indicates a balanced market where supply constraints and demand pressures are aligning without causing sharp volatility. Overall, manganese remains a critical raw material with stable pricing dynamics heading into the final quarter of 2024. 

In Q3 2024, manganese prices experienced a notable increase of $7 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane reflecting a 3.29% rise compared to the previous quarter. This upward trend can be attributed to a combination of tightening supply dynamics and steady demand growth, particularly from the steel and battery industries.

The ongoing focus on electric vehicle production and infrastructure development has further bolstered manganese consumption, contributing to the price gain. Market participants are closely monitoring these factors as manganese continues to play a critical role in both traditional steelmaking and emerging clean energy technologies. 

In Q2 2024, the manganese market experienced a notable price increase of $8 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane representing a 7.28% rise compared to the previous quarter. This upward movement reflects tightening supply conditions combined with sustained demand from the steel and battery manufacturing sectors. The surge is driven by increased production costs and heightened consumption in emerging markets focusing on electric vehicle batteries, which heavily rely on manganese as a key component.

As a result, the price hike signals robust market fundamentals and suggests continued upward pressure on manganese prices in the near term, potentially influencing procurement strategies and cost structures across related industries. 

In the first quarter of 2024, the manganese market experienced a notable price increase of $5 per DMTU, FOB Brisbane reflecting a 6.41% rise compared to the previous quarter. This upward movement can be attributed to a combination of factors, including tightening supply due to production slowdowns in key mining regions and sustained demand from the steel and battery industries.

The increase highlights manganese’s growing importance in industrial applications, particularly in electric vehicle battery manufacturing, which continues to drive market dynamics. Overall, the price adjustment signals a tightening market environment and suggests potential continued upward pressure if demand remains robust and supply constraints persist. 

 

Technical Specifications of Manganese Price Trends

Product Description

Manganese is a tough, gray, white metallic element known for its excellent hardness, impact strength, and resistance to wear. It is most widely used in the steel industry, where it serves as an essential alloying agent to improve hardness, tensile strength, and resistance to abrasion. Manganese also acts as a deoxidizer and desulfurizer during steel production, enhancing overall metal quality. Beyond metallurgy, manganese is crucial in battery technologies, especially in lithium ion and alkaline batteries, as well as in the production of fertilizers, pigments, and various chemical applications. Its versatile properties make manganese indispensable in structural materials and energy storage systems.

Identifiers and Classification:

HS Code – 260200

Manganese Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Manganese Purity: 45%min. Price Trend
  • Manganese Purity: 38%min. Price Trend


Manganese Global Trade and Shipment Terms

Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 20000-50000 MT

Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Bulk


Incoterms Referenced in Manganese Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Brisbane  Australia  Manganese Export price from Australia 
FOB Santos  South Africa  Domestically Traded Manganese price in South Africa 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Manganese being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Manganese packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key Manganese Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
South32 – South Africa Manganese 
Assmang Proprietary Limited 
Manganese Metal Company (MMC) 
Groote Eylandt Mining Company (GEMCO) 
Consolidated Minerals (ConsMin) 
Firebird Metals 

Manganese Industrial Applications

manganese market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Manganese prices

• Energy Costs and Shipping Challenges (2022–2023): Rising global energy prices and continued shipping disruptions affected manganese ore transport and refining operations. These challenges, compounded by limited investment in new mining capacity, led to supply tightness and heightened price volatility. 

• Supply Disruptions and Export Restrictions (2021–2022): Key manganese-producing countries like South Africa and Gabon faced intermittent disruptions due to labour strikes, COVID-19 lockdowns, and logistical constraints. Additionally, some countries considered tightening export regulations to secure domestic supply, adding upward pressure on prices. 

• Infrastructure and Steel Demand Surge (2020–2021): Manganese is a critical component in steel production. During the post-COVID-19 economic recovery, increased infrastructure spending and construction activity, especially in China and emerging markets, drove strong demand for steel, boosting manganese consumption and prices. 

Why Price Watch™?

Price Watch™ is your trusted resource for tracking global manganese price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the manganese market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, Price Watch™ keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, Price Watch™ provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With Price Watch™, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence manganese prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with Price Watch’s™ reliable, accurate, and timely manganese market data.

Track Price Watch's™ manganese price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Manganese Market Price Trend published by 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ reflect prevailing spot market conditions, derived from independent research, verified trade inputs, and proprietary market intelligence as of the publication date. Prices are published on the specified Incoterm and represent indicative base market levels, exclusive of applicable taxes, VAT, duties, tariffs, and other statutory charges. Actual transaction values may vary depending on volume, credit terms, contractual structure, and other negotiated conditions. Market prices are inherently subject to volatility, liquidity dynamics, regulatory changes, and evolving trade activity. The information provided is for reference and benchmarking purposes only and does not constitute an offer, recommendation, or guarantee of transactional outcomes. Users should exercise independent commercial judgment and assess their specific contractual, regulatory, tax, and application requirements before making business decisions. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ assumes no liability for decisions taken based on this information.

Raw Material Availability – Manganese is primarily mined in countries like South Africa, Australia, and Gabon. The availability of high-grade ore and disruptions in mining operations directly impact global supply and pricing.

Global Demand – The steel industry is the largest consumer of manganese (used as an alloy to improve strength and durability). Therefore, global steel production levels significantly influence manganese demand and pricing.

Geopolitical Stability – Political instability, labor strikes, or regulatory changes in major manganese-producing countries can disrupt exports and supply chains, pushing prices higher.

Environmental and Regulatory Policies – Stricter environmental regulations in producing or refining regions can raise compliance costs, limiting supply and affecting prices.

Processing and Transportation Costs – Manganese ore is bulky and costly to transport. Changes in fuel prices, shipping logistics, or labor costs at refineries and smelters can influence the market price.

Infrastructure and Energy Access – Reliable access to power and transport infrastructure is essential for mining and processing manganese. Deficiencies or improvements in infrastructure can affect production capacity and cost.

Substitution and Technological Changes – Advances in materials science that reduce the need for manganese in alloys or batteries can decrease long-term demand.

Market Speculation and Commodity Trading – Investment trends, futures trading, and speculative activity in commodity markets can cause short-term price volatility.

Exchange Rates – Manganese is traded internationally, often priced in USD. Currency fluctuations—especially in the currencies of major producers—can impact profitability and pricing strategies.

China’s Market Influence – China is both a major importer and processor of manganese. Its domestic demand, trade policies, and industrial output levels heavily affect global prices.

The availability and cost of raw materials such as high-carbon steel and alloy coatings directly affect Manganese production costs and pricing.

Manganese prices tend to follow general inflation trends due to rising mining, labor, and transportation costs. However, the primary driver of manganese pricing is industrial demand, especially from the steel and battery sectors which can cause prices to fluctuate independently of inflation. Supply chain disruptions or shifts in global steel production often have a more pronounced impact than inflation alone.

Ammonium Nitrate is a widely used nitrogen fertilizer and industrial oxidizer, primarily applied in agriculture and mining. Its price directly impacts farming input costs and blasting operations. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks Ammonium Nitrate prices to help businesses monitor cost movements and market trends.

Ammonium Nitrate prices vary by region, grade (fertilizer or industrial), and supply-demand conditions. Prices are typically quoted per metric ton and fluctuate based on feedstock and seasonal demand. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ provides up-to-date price assessments across key markets.

Prices are influenced by ammonia and nitric acid feedstock costs, natural gas trends, agricultural demand cycles, mining activity, trade flows, and plant operating rates. Seasonal fertilizer demand and regulatory policies also impact price direction.

Major consumers include agriculture (fertilizer application), mining and quarrying (ANFO production), construction blasting, and certain chemical industries. Agriculture accounts for a significant share of global consumption.

Ammonium Nitrate is produced by neutralizing ammonia with nitric acid in integrated chemical plants. Major production hubs include Europe, Russia, North America, China, and India.

Russia and certain European countries are major exporters, along with producers in North America and Asia. Export volumes depend on domestic demand, regulations, and pricing competitiveness. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ monitors global trade flows and supply availability.

Supply is generally balanced, but tightness may occur during peak fertilizer seasons or due to plant shutdowns and export restrictions. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ tracks supply-demand balances to identify shortages or oversupply risks.

Grades include fertilizer grade, industrial/explosive grade, and blends like Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN). Prices differ based on nitrogen content, coating, bulk density, and intended application.

Sharp demand rises, especially during planting seasons, can push prices upward, tighten spot availability, and extend delivery timelines. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ captures these shifts in real time.

Ammonia and nitric acid are primary feedstocks. Any increase in their prices, often linked to natural gas costs, raises production expenses and influences finished product pricing.

Regional variations arise from feedstock availability, natural gas costs, plant capacities, freight rates, import duties, and domestic agricultural demand levels.

Price outlook depends on natural gas trends, fertilizer demand cycles, mining activity, and capacity utilization rates. 𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ publishes forecasts covering short- and medium-term projections.

Yes. Forecasts support procurement planning, inventory control, contract negotiation, and budgeting decisions, especially for fertilizer distributors and mining companies.

Geopolitical tensions, energy price volatility, trade sanctions, shipping disruptions, and environmental regulations can affect feedstock supply and export flows, causing price fluctuations.

𝐏𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡™ collects data from producers, distributors, traders, and end-users to publish transparent price assessments, market insights, and forecasts, helping stakeholders stay ahead of market movements.