As manganese stocks reach saturation in key markets, United Manganese of Kalahari (UMK), the fourth-largest manganese exporter in South Africa, has announced that it will pause all road freight transportation of manganese and switch exclusively to rail.
“Presently, stockpiles in major markets like China are healthy, and this has led to a decline in demand,” said chief executive Malcolm Curror. “While the price of manganese enjoyed a buoyant period in the middle of the year, it was short-lived, and current market conditions do not support the need for multiple transportation methods,” he added.
As part of this strategic shift, UMK will also limit exports to align with current supply and demand dynamics. The move, he added, aimed to ensure responsible resource management while navigating fluctuating market trends.
“UMK remains committed to optimising operational efficiency and minimising disruption of business continuity through the exclusive use of rail for manganese exports,” Curror noted. "The company will continue to monitor global market conditions and adjust its strategy as needed to maintain sustainable growth.”
Established in 2005, UMK is 51% black-owned.
