【Graphite Electrodes】April Market Observation: Prices Remain at High Levels

【Graphite Electrodes】April Market Observation: Prices Remain at High Levels

At present, the domestic ultra-high power Φ450mm graphite electrode market is operating in a stable but slightly strong trend. According to the latest survey, the mainstream ex-factory price (including tax) for standard products is in the range of RMB 17,500–18,500/ton, representing a cumulative increase of RMB 600–700/ton compared to March. Overall, the market is currently in a phase of "high cost support" and "moderate demand recovery."

Graphite Electrode Price Table (China)

From the cost side, since mid-January, prices of raw materials such as petroleum coke and needle coke have continued to rise, significantly pushing up the production cost of graphite electrodes. This not only provides strong support for current prices but also limits downside risk, laying a foundation for price stability or even further increases. Under this influence, graphite electrode producers have generally raised their quotations to ease cost pressure, and overall pricing remains firm.

On the demand side, with electric arc furnace (EAF) steel mills resuming operations in a concentrated manner, the vast majority of mills completed their restart in March. Operating rates have increased significantly, bringing a wave of rigid restocking demand. Market activity in April is higher than in March. In addition, due to recent regional conflicts, China's exports of graphite electrodes to Iran and the UAE have been disrupted. Goods originally planned for shipment to these regions may return to the domestic market, increasing localized supply pressure.

Overall, under the dual effects of strong cost support and export disruptions, and benefiting from the moderate recovery of domestic demand, the graphite electrode market shows a slight upward trend. In the short term, high raw material prices will continue to be the main support for the market.

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