According to Mr Robert Yildirim CEO & chairman of Turkish ferrochromium producer Etikrom his company will look to acquire ferrochromium assets in China in 2010 once the stainless steel market has recovered.

He also hinted that South African producers Samancor and Xstrata could also buy operations in China.

Chinese chromium ore imports from South Africa have soared during 2008 causing controversy between those who back exporting material for beneficiation and those who believe most ores should stay in South Africa for processing.

(Metal Bulletin)