【Negative Electrode Materials】Steady Operation with Increased Production

1. Market Focus This Week

1）Production: Negative electrode materials manufacturers are still increasing production, with high operating rates among leading enterprises, and high-priced inventory has been largely consumed.

2）Demand: Downstream orders are good, with continued growth in battery factory production, leading to a steady increase in demand for negative electrodes. 

2. Analysis of Market Trends This Week

This week, the prices in the artificial graphite market remained stable. Prices for high-end power ranged from 35,000 to 65,000 RMB/Ton, while high-end digital products ranged from 50,000 to 70,000 RMB/Ton. Mid-range products were priced between 23,000 and 38,000 RMB/Ton, and low-end products were priced between 15,000 and 22,000 RMB/Ton. The graphitized petroleum coke (gpc) specifications for anode material preparation is available. 

3. Analysis of Factors Affecting Raw Material Markets

1）Petroleum Coke: Prices of low-sulfur petroleum coke dropped by 20 yuan/ton this week. Most refineries are producing and selling steadily, with contract orders being the main focus. Shipments of 4A coke from Sinopec's Tahexi Petrochemical Co., Ltd. slowed down, leading to inventory pressure and a price reduction of about 160 yuan/ton. Sinopec Liaoyang Petrochemical Co., Ltd. initiated a new round of bidding with good shipments, stabilizing coke prices. Two sets of coking units at Shandong Lihu Petrochemical are expected to be shut down successively around May 10 for maintenance lasting about 50 days.

2）Needle Coke: This week, downstream procurement enthusiasm for negative electrodes surged, creating a good atmosphere for needle coke production and transactions. The mainstream prices of calcined needle coke are between 6,500 and 7,800 yuan/ton, while green needle coke is priced between 5,200 and 5,500 yuan/ton.

4. Market Forecast for Next Week

It is expected that in the short term, there will be no increase in the supply of negative electrode materials, leading to narrowed profits. Negative electrode prices are expected to stabilize at the current levels. For the latest updates on the lithium battery cathode market, stay tuned with us!