【GPC】Insufficient Demand for GPC as Downstream Steel Mills Face Increased Losses

Market Overview:

On August 12th, the mainstream market price of China's graphitized petroleum coke carburant (GPC) remained weak and stable, with a reference price of 3,500 RMB/ton. Cost prices saw little change, while downstream steel mills reduced production due to maintenance and continued to operate at a loss, leading to insufficient demand. As a result, market transactions were sluggish, with companies maintaining stable prices and low profits. The domestic market price for graphitized petroleum coke carburant (C≥98%, S≤0.05%, particle size: 1-5mm) ranged between 3,300-3,600 RMB/ton; semi-graphitized petroleum coke carburant (C≥98%, S≤0.3%, particle size: 1-5mm) ranged between 2,800-3,100 RMB/ton.

Supply Side:

Graphitized petroleum coke carburant companies continue normal production, with some outsourcing their graphitization furnace processing. Some anode material companies use part of their carburant production for crucibles or plates. Despite a decline in anode graphitization operations, there is a delay in the output of by-product graphitized petroleum coke carburant, resulting in little change in current supply levels.

Upstream Market:

Calcined petroleum coke(CPC): The medium and high-sulfur calcined coke market has ample supply, with ordinary goods facing slow sales, keeping prices generally stable. 

Downstream Market:

Steel: Recently, with the continuous decline in steel prices, most steel mills have entered a period of overall losses. Many mills have started maintenance and production reduction plans, leading to insufficient demand for carburants.

Market Outlook: 

With limited downstream demand and persistent bearish factors, graphitized petroleum coke carburant prices are expected to remain weak. The market price for graphitized petroleum coke carburant (C≥98%, S≤0.05%, particle size: 1-5mm) is expected to stay between 3,300-3,600 RMB/ton, while semi-graphitized petroleum coke carburant (C≥98%, S≤0.3%, particle size: 1-5mm) is likely to remain at 2,800-3,100 RMB/ton.

(Source: Baiinfo)

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