【Needle Coke】Both Import and Export Volumes Experience Growth?

In December 2023, China's imported petroleum-based needle coke amounted to 4,975 tons, showing a 36% month-on-month increase but a 28% year-on-year decrease. The imported coal-based needle coke reached 4,952 tons, marking a 133% month-on-month increase but a 54% year-on-year decrease. Research indicates that in December, overseas needle coke prices offered significant discounts, with some product prices lower than the domestic needle coke base price. This exerted a strong attraction on domestic electrode manufacturers but had a certain impact on domestic needle coke enterprises. However, entering January, as production adjustments were made by electrode manufacturers, the procurement of needle coke became more limited, and it is anticipated that the import volume of needle coke in January will decline. Ultra high power graphite electrode (needle coke as raw material) specification reference.

Data Source: SMM, China Customs

In December 2023, China's exported petroleum-based needle coke was 15,925 tons, experiencing a 5% month-on-month decrease but a significant 130% year-on-year increase. The exported coal-based needle coke was 97 tons, showing a 3% month-on-month growth but an 88% year-on-year decrease. As domestic electrode factory production saw reductions in December, demand for needle coke was limited. Needle coke factories continued to lower export prices to attract overseas customers. However, considering the high overseas purchasing volumes in November and December, current inventories are substantial, and with overseas markets gradually slowing in January, it is expected that the export volume of needle coke in January will decrease. For more information on the needle coke market, feel free to communicate with us at any time.