Lead Scrap Price Rises Marginally in Tokyo

Lead scrap market price increased by 1-3 yen per kilogram around Tokyo. The price is stable when the averaged monthly ingot selling price by the smelter increases by 4,300 yen per tonne for March shipment while the official price increased by 13,000 yen on Monday.

The market price is 55-65 yen per kg for high grade lead scrap, 30-35 yen for battery electrode lead and 45-55 yen for type around Tokyo.

Lead scrap supply usually increases for high grade products including flat rolled lead and lead pipe in March while supply of waste battery and battery electrode lead increases in the replacement demand season of summer and winter.

However, the supply is low level for waste battery due to slower automobile market under recession. The supply of high grade lead scrap also decreases when the processing activity of lead products is very slow, according to a secondary refinery.

The supply volume recovery could take more time. The supply of waste battery could get tight in and after April. Secondary refinery around Tokyo increased the purchase price to 20 yen per kg level to secure the material while a refinery source said the buyers are cautious for additional hike.