Downstream Buyers Cautious as Independent Refineries' Petroleum Coke Market Continues to Decline

August 25th, News

According to the commodity analysis system, the recent market trend for petroleum coke from local refineries has been continuously declining. As of August 25, the price of petroleum coke from local refineries in the Shandong market was 2,412.50 CNY per ton, a decrease of 5.30% from 2,547.50 CNY per ton on August 18.

Recently, crude oil prices have been fluctuating and trending upward. On one hand, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East are impacting the oil market, while uncertainty surrounding U.S. tariff policies is casting a pessimistic outlook on the global economy and oil demand, putting downward pressure on crude oil prices. On the other hand, the ongoing peak season for traditional fuels in the U.S. continues to provide positive momentum, supporting the crude oil market.

Recently, the shipment of petroleum coke from local refineries in China has been average, with refinery prices continuously declining; downstream enterprises have shown moderate enthusiasm for purchasing petroleum coke: aluminum carbon anode manufacturers mainly maintain a rigid demand for petroleum coke, while the anode material market mainly purchases petroleum coke on a need basis. Graphite electrode companies, with low production enthusiasm, have limited purchases of petroleum coke. Recently, the delivery of petroleum coke at ports has slowed down, and ports continue to clear inventory, with most coke prices remaining stable.

Recently, the calcined coke market has risen, with decent trading activity. Downstream demand is supporting the market, and calcined coke companies have low inventories. As the end of the month approaches, companies are showing a strong willingness to push for higher prices on new orders.

Market Forecast: Currently, trading in the independent refinery petroleum coke market remains sluggish, with downstream buyers showing only moderate purchasing interest, providing limited support to the market. As a result, petroleum coke prices are expected to consolidate at lower levels in the near term.