【Data Analysis】Decrease in Monthly Operating Rate of Chinese Needle Coke Samples

Ⅰ. Qualitative Analysis of Operating Rate Trend

As of May 31, 2023, the average operating rate of needle coke facilities in May was 42%, which decreased by 1 percentage point compared to the previous month and declined by 24 percentage points compared to the same period last year. At the end of the month, there were manufacturers both starting and stopping production, resulting in a slight decrease in the operating rate on a month-on-month basis. Reference for Needle Coke-based Ultra-High Power Graphite Electrodes for Electric Arc Steelmaking. 

Data Source: Oilchem

Ⅱ. Predictive Analysis of Operating Rate Trend

In June, the operating rate of coal-based enterprises is expected to remain at a low level, while the operating rate of petroleum-based enterprises is expected to decrease slightly, with minor fluctuations.

Ⅲ. Comparison of Operating Rate Trend with Prices

Currently, the operating rate of the samples is at a low level since 2022, 7 percentage points higher than the lowest point of the year and 30 percentage points lower than the highest point of the year. The needle coke prices are under downward pressure. Market trends for needle coke in June, welcome your inquiry.

Data Source: Oilchem

Sample Explanation

Operating Rate: The production of sample enterprises divided by their production capacity. The sample operating rate of needle coke includes 26 domestic production enterprises, with a sample coverage rate of 93%.