Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-06-07 02:04Industry Overview - Silicon iron (FeSi) is produced using raw materials such as coke, steel scrap, and quartz in electric furnaces, primarily used as a deoxidizer in steelmaking and as an alloying agent in various steel types [1][6] - The demand for silicon iron has been increasing due to the recovery of the domestic and international economy, with production expected to reach 5.438 million tons in 2024, a nearly 1% increase from the previous year [6][10] Production Capacity and Distribution - As of the end of 2024, China's silicon iron production capacity is projected to exceed 8 million tons per year, indicating potential overcapacity and intensified market competition [6][8] - The production is highly concentrated in regions rich in energy and resources, such as Inner Mongolia, Ningxia, and Shaanxi, with Inner Mongolia's share rising from 27.2% in 2022 to 32% in 2024 due to its green energy initiatives [8][10] Market Pricing - The price of silicon iron in China showed a downward trend in 2024, decreasing from 6,661.43 CNY/ton at the beginning of the year to 6,024.29 CNY/ton by the end, a decline of approximately 9.56% [10] - Factors influencing price fluctuations include demand weakness, production adjustments, and changes in raw material costs [10] Import and Export Dynamics - China remains a net exporter of silicon iron, with imports in 2024 reaching 82,900 tons, a 40.51% increase year-on-year, driven by demand for high-end specialty silicon iron products [12] - Exports slightly increased to 428,800 tons in 2024, marking a 5.43% growth, while net export volume and trade surplus showed cyclical fluctuations [12] Competitive Landscape - The silicon iron industry in China is characterized by an oligopolistic structure with regional concentration, where companies leverage local resource advantages to enhance competitiveness [14][18] - Companies like Ordos, with an annual production capacity of 1.6 million tons, dominate the market due to their integrated coal-electricity-silicon iron production model [14][18] Development Trends - The industry is shifting towards high-end and specialized products, with increasing demand for high-purity and specialty silicon iron alloys driven by advancements in downstream applications [20] - Environmental policies are pushing the industry towards greener practices, with companies adopting technologies to reduce energy consumption and emissions [21] - The global market is becoming more competitive, with rising trade barriers and the emergence of new production regions, prompting companies to diversify their export markets and localize production [22]