All Africa reported that Xstrata Merafe JV had returned more furnaces to production in response to strengthening demand. Merafe said the latest move would bring capacity to 85% from 60% in July.

Earlier this year, SA's biggest ferrochrome producers, which also include Hernic Ferrochrome and Samancor Chrome, mothballed up to 80% of capacity as demand slumped, but they have been firing up their furnaces again in the September quarter.

Mr Tetsu Kotaki CEO of Hernic Ferrochrome said that Hernic was bringing its remaining two furnaces back on line to reach full capacity.

(Sourced from www.allafrica.com)