【Needle Coke】Limited Positives, Market in a Stable State with a Wait-and-See Approach

The supply and demand balance in the needle coke market remains stable. Downstream industries have not yet engaged in significant stockpiling, and demand for raw materials is primarily driven by small-scale essential needs. The mainstream price for green needle coke ranges from 5000 to 5500 RMB/ton, while the mainstream price for calcined needle coke ranges from 8000 to 9500 RMB/ton.

Supply: Many enterprises in the needle coke coal sector have either halted production or shifted to producing pitch coke. Their reopening schedules remain uncertain. Petroleum-based enterprises are maintaining operations at a low capacity.

Demand: Demand from negative electrode enterprises shows a slight upward trend. The nationwide independent electric arc furnace operation rate remains stable compared to the previous period, with a marginal increase in capacity utilization. However, the demand for needle coke in the graphite electrode sector is not favorable.

In the medium- and low-sulfur coal tar pitch market, the mainstream prices range from 3800 to 4530 RMB/ton. Modified coal tar pitch has a mainstream price range of 5300 to 5600 RMB/ton, while medium-temperature coal tar pitch is priced around 5400 RMB/ton. Mid-range artificial graphite is priced at 34000 RMB/ton, and the market price for ultra-high power 700mm graphite electrodes is 23000 RMB/ton.

There is currently no significant positive outlook in downstream demand. It is expected that needle coke prices will remain stable in the short term, with a cautious wait-and-see approach.  For more product information,  feel free to inquire with us.