Upstream and downstream support is insufficient,  graphite electrode market is weak and stable

According to investigation, the current graphite electrode market price shows a weak trend, and the price is slightly lower than the early period. Taking φ450mm graphite electrode as an example, the mainstream ex-factory price quotation (including tax) of HP (high-power) graphite electrode is concentrated between 24000-25000 yuan/ton, and the mainstream ex-factory price quotation (including tax) of UHP (ultra-high power) graphite electrode is concentrated between 25000-27000 yuan/ton. 

• In terms of upstream petroleum coke and coal tar pitch, with the increase of supply, the market price is difficult to maintain strong and continues to decline, and the cost support of HP graphite electrode is weakened; Needle coke market is stable. UHP graphite electrode cost has not changed significantly and remains stable, without on-site inventory pressure.

• In terms of downstream demand, the steel market exists many negative factors. Such as steel price decline, profit reduction, low operating rate of steel plants under epidemic control, insufficient support for graphite electrode demand, especially UHP graphite electrodes procurement of electric furnace steelmaking enterprises are basically purchased on demand, whose storage enthusiasm is not high.

Overall, raw material cost support is weakened, downstream demand  performance is general, and the overall market trend is downward rather than upward. Graphite electrode market is expected to maintain weak and stable operation. Contact us about the latest GE market reports.