South Africa: Chrome ore exports up 35% in Jan'23

South Africa recorded chrome ore exports of 1.79 million tonnes (mnt) in January 2023 as against 1.32 mnt in December 2022. Exports increased by 35% m-o-m, as per customs data.

The rise in chromite ore exports was mainly because of the rise in imports from the major producer countries amid improved demand globally.

Chrome ore exports surge

• Exports to China marginally up 7%: South African exports to China increased by 7% m-o-m to 0.61 mnt in January 2023 from 0.56 mnt in December 2022. The rise in exports to China was mainly because of improved demand for the raw material post holidays.
  
  
• Exports to Mozambique, Hong Kong rise: in January chrome ore exports to Mozambique increased by 36% m-o-m to 0.57 mnt. Moreover, exports to Hong Kong significantly increased by 249% m-o-m to 0.10 mnt in January 2023.
  
  

Ferro chrome exports surge 72% m-o-m in Jan'23
South Africa's ferro chrome exports surged 76% to 0.44 mnt in January 2023 from 0.25 mnt in December owing to improved demand in the international market. China remained the largest importer at 0.25 mnt with volumes increasing 117% m-o-m as against 0.11 mnt in December. Meanwhile, exports increased by 21% against 0.36 mnt in January 2022.