As we move through 2025, the global manganese market is undergoing significant transformations driven by technological advancements, green energy demand, and geopolitical shifts. Manganese, primarily used in steel production and increasingly vital in battery technology, has emerged as a strategic mineral in the global supply chain.
Here’s a deep dive into the major trends shaping the manganese market in 2025.
Stable but Shifting Steel Industry Dynamics
Although the steel sector remains the dominant consumer of manganese (around 90% of total global use), growth in steel production is stabilizing. China’s construction slowdown and a shift toward higher-efficiency production methods are moderating manganese demand from this sector. However, emerging economies in Asia and Africa are ramping up infrastructure projects, partially offsetting the decline in Chinese steel output.
Supply Chain Rebalancing and Investment in New Mines
Geopolitical tensions and a focus on critical mineral security are prompting Western nations to reduce dependence on top suppliers like South Africa, China, and Gabon. New investments are flowing into Australian, Brazilian, and Indonesian manganese mining projects, especially those geared toward battery-grade production.
Key Projects to Watch: 1. Euro Manganese (Czech Republic), 2. Element 25 (Australia), 3. South32’s expansion in Australia
Environmental and Regulatory Pressures
Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) compliance are becoming non-negotiable for mining companies. Producers are under pressure to reduce their carbon footprint, implement traceability in sourcing, and meet stricter environmental regulations. China, for example, is enforcing stricter controls on pollution from manganese smelters, potentially reducing output and supporting higher prices.
Price Volatility and Market Outlook
Manganese prices have experienced moderate volatility in early 2025, largely due to logistics bottlenecks, weather-related disruptions in Africa, and shifting demand patterns. However, analysts expect prices to stabilize in the second half of the year as new projects begin to deliver.
Forecast: Prices for 44% Mn ore are projected to average between $5.50-$6.50 per dmtu (delivered China) in 2025, with upward pressure from battery-sector growth.
