Miningmx reports that Assore is considering shifting its remaining ferroalloys production from SA to its Malaysian facilities which it holds in joint venture with African Rainbow Minerals (ARM).  

This will depend on the risks posed by continued interrupted power supply from Eskom as well as the utility’s proposed electricity tariff increases, currently under review.  Manganese ferroalloy production takes place at three furnaces at the Cato Ridge facilities, some 60km from Durban.  Assore and ARM, which are in joint venture through Assmang, have the option of extending capacity at Sakura Ferroalloys in Malaysia, built more than five years ago.  “We are looking at options on that,” said Charles Walters, CEO of Assore following the Johannesburg-listed company’s interim results published on Tuesday.  Eskom’s proposed 15.5% per year tariff increase over the next three years is a burning issue.  The tariff proposal is currently being studied by the National Energy Regulator of SA.  According to the Minerals Council SA, granting the tariff increase will cost jobs and investment.

• Read the full original report by David McKay on this story at Miningmx

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