UHP Graphite Electrodes Weak Domestic Market Demand Puts Enterprises in a Difficult Situation

This week, prices of ultra-high power graphite electrodes in the domestic market remained weak and stable. The quotations for φ450 specification ultra-high power graphite electrodes ranged between 17,500-18,000 yuan per ton, while the quotations for φ600 specification were between 21,000-21,500 yuan per ton. Demand was sluggish, leading to low transaction volumes.

In terms of the downstream market, the average operating rate of 87 independent electric arc furnace steel plants nationwide was 65.32%, a decrease of 1.35 percentage points compared to the previous period and a decrease of 4.30 percentage points year-on-year. Significant declines were observed in the Central and Northwest regions, slight decreases in the Southwest and East China regions, while the South China region showed significant growth. The blast furnace operating rate of 247 steel plants was 82.36%, an increase of 1.26 percentage points compared to the previous period, but a decrease of 0.65 percentage points year-on-year. The blast furnace iron production capacity utilization rate was 89.12%, an increase of 0.09 percentage points compared to the previous period and an increase of 0.46 percentage points year-on-year. The electric arc furnace segment recorded a loss of 195.47 yuan per ton, while the blast furnace segment showed a profit of 11.37 yuan per ton. Steel prices fluctuated unpredictably, and market expectations for the future were somewhat pessimistic. After a slight rebound in steel profitability last week, stability was observed this week, but the impact of demand on ultra-high power graphite electrodes remains a bearish factor.

In terms of raw materials, Jinxi needle coke prices remained stable this week, and coal tar pitch maintained stable operation. However, Daqing needle coke prices increased by 200 yuan per ton due to weak supply, which led to continued price increases for some petroleum coke. However, if demand continues to dominate, rising costs will put greater production pressure on manufacturers. It is expected that the prices of ultra-high power graphite electrodes may stabilize in the short term. Reading more related news on GE market, welcome to contact us.