Tungsten Market Update (March 28, 2013)

Market participants are reporting weak demand for many tungsten products, including tungsten powder and tungsten carbide. Given these conditions, weak prices have softened further. Over the past week, 65-percent grade wolframite prices in China have fallen from the $285 to $290 range to $280 to $287.  The price for APT grade 88.5 percent in China is in the range of $313 to $317 per metric ton, according to Metal-Pages.

Hazelwood Resources (ASX:HAZ) has been active in the market purchasing concentrate for the start up of the ATC ferrotungsten refinery. Terry Butler-Blaxell, managing director, serves as one source of confirmation of the market weakness. Not only did he note that the company has purchased tungsten at more attractive prices than expected, but he also said that upon establishing a reputation as a serious buyer it becomes clear that ample supply is available.