China polysilicon firms face low capacity utilization rates and high inventory levels Nuying Huang, Taipei; Jackie Chang, DIGITIMES [Thursday 12 April 2012] The falling price of polysilicon has been pushing more China-based firms into production suspensions. The ones that have continued operating are facing high inventory levels, according to industry sources. Firms may consider dumping inventories to obtain cash which will have negative impacts on the global solar industry, the sources commented.
There are currently 5-6 polysilicon firms in China that are still operating, added industry sources. The firms have been betting on domestic demand, nevertheless, prices have been dropping drastically in the domestic market. China's imports of polysilicon from international firms have been increasing which has been putting more pressure on domestic firms.
The high inventory levels and low demand have been increasing the difficulty for firms to obtain financial capital. The solar industry fears possible dumping of polysilicon from China-based firms.
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Polysilicon spot price close to US$22/kg Nuying Huang, Taipei; Jackie Chang, DIGITIMES [Thursday 12 April 2012] The most recent spot price of polysilicon has been reaching close to US$22/kg. Industry sources noted that downstream demand has been weak causing solar wafer firms to be reluctant to procure polysilicon materials despite the low price.
Industry sources pointed out that demand in the second quarter is not going to be as strong as the first quarter since Germany made incentive cuts in April. In addition, solar wafer firms have been operating at a loss, and so have been careful with capacity utilization rates and inventory controls on materials and products. This means demand for polysilicon is likely to be low.
However, contract prices for materials have been relatively high at around US$30/kg. Industry sources noted that due to low demand, it is still possible to negotiate prices with material suppliers.
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