BEIJING (Asian Metal) 23 Jan 07 – Antimony market keeps firm with prices for high-quality antimony ingot standing at around RMB40,000-40,500/t(USD5,141-5,206/t) ex works, market sources reported to Asian Metal today. “We will not sell below RMB41,000/t(USD5,270/t) ex works for our 99.85%min antimony ingot,” a Hunan-based producer said, adding that the domestic antimony ingot market keeps firm presently. According to the source, although some suppliers can still sell standard grade-two antimony ingot at lower prices of around RMB40,000/t ex works, it is hard to purchase high-quality materials at prices below RMB40,500/t ex works. The source revealed that some major smelters in Hunan suspended quoting, claiming that they have no spot materials on hand. A trader from Guangdong also reported that the domestic antimony ingot market has remained firm since last week. “Many smelters are holding on for better prices, and we have great difficulty replenishing stocks for the time being,” said the source. The source confirmed that some major smelters are holding on for higher prices. Those who sold materials at around RMB40,000-40,500/t ex works last week plan to raise offers higher. “But I think the market has little chance to climb up further with the approaching of the Spring Festival. It is most likely to keep at current level in the following month,” the source added.