Firm Indium Price around Tokyo

Indium price is firm around Tokyo. The market price is around 50,000-55,000 yen per kilogram for low grade product, which is used for low-melting point alloy at the small-lot sales.

International indium spot price is US$ 500-600 per kg. The price is US$ 500-550 for low grade product while the price is US$ 550-600 for high grade product, which is used for transparent electrode of liquid crystal panel.

The price had been decreasing since early May when the dealers sold the inventory expecting the price decline due to the financial problem in Europe. However, the price seemed to bottom out. A source in Japanese rare metal trading company expects the price would not decrease to less than US$ 500 per kg while many market participants expect the price could decline to US$ 450.

Japanese indium tin oxide target makers’ operation rate stays at high level and the makers continue the purchase of indium while the operation rate slightly decreased in May, according to the source. The demand is firm for solder. With the firm demand condition, Japanese traders expect the price could rebound with some positive news.