Zestaponi Ferroalloy Plant and Chiatura Management Company of Georgian Manganese [a producer and exporter of ferroalloys and manganese ore], have suspended operations starting today, November 1, until March 1, 2025, following a “significant decline” in silicomanganese prices on the global market and decreased demand over the past 2 years.

Georgian Manganese cited “difficulties” for Chiatura Management Company in supplying ore “due to picketing by local residents”, which it said had “paralysed seven out of twelve mines” in the western town.

The Plant will enter temporary management, with production capacities “completely shut down” and ferroalloy production halted, Georgian Manganese said, adding employees would be paid 60 percent of their salary during the period and “maintain their full insurance benefits”.

Employees engaged in current and planned capital repair work will receive 100% of their salary.