Graphite Prices

Graphite Price Trend and Forecast

Track the latest insights on graphite price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across Europe, North America, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.

Graphite Prices Q4 2024

During the last quarter of 2024, the graphite prices in the United States reached 1,114 USD/MT in December. The market struggled with falling prices, shaped by reliance on imports and geopolitical pressures. Fluctuating EV demand, seasonal construction slowdowns, and China’s dominance in supply chains heightened challenges. However, efforts to secure long-term supply agreements suggest potential recovery ahead.

In the last quarter of 2024, China’s graphite market faced price pressure in Q4 2024 due to weakened demand and tighter export controls. The quarter ended with graphite priced at 876 USD/MT in December. Slowing construction activity and declining EV sales impacted consumption, while strategic production cuts and seasonal factors added challenges. Stable production provided some optimism for future stabilization.

During the last quarter of 2024, graphite prices in Germany reached 721 USD/MT in December. The market price declined, driven by subdued demand for EVs and construction. Shifts to synthetic graphite and weak manufacturing further exacerbated challenges. Despite improved supply chains, economic instability and declining factory input costs left the market facing ongoing struggles.

Graphite Prices Q3 2024

The graphite prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 1030 USD/MT in September. The region saw notable price fluctuations, primarily driven by a surplus in supply and muted demand from key segments like construction and industrial manufacturing. Challenges in these sectors, compounded by logistical disturbances and decreasing automotive sales, shaped a period of price reductions and market pessimism.

The price trend for graphite in China for Q3 2024 settled at 665 USD/MT in September. The market experienced significant price drops in Q3 2024, due to an oversupply situation fueled by extensions in production volumes and weak demand from crucial industries. Besides, financial strains and depleted customer sentiment further influenced the market, leading to a sustained bearish trend without any interruptions from plant shutdowns.

In Germany, the graphite prices for Q3 2024 reached 815 USD/MT in September. The market saw substantial price declines during Q3 2024. The drop was largely influenced by reduced requirements from major industries, including steel manufacturing and automotive, against a backdrop of stable supply. This imbalance between supply and demand led to continued negative adjustments in market prices.

The graphite prices in Brazil for Q3 2024 reached 165 USD/MT in September.

Graphite Prices Q2 2024

The graphite prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 1109 USD/MT in June. Graphite prices consistently fell during this quarter, driven by a combination of increased supply, logistical inefficiencies, and a seasonal weakening in manufacturing activities. The overall negative sentiment in the market was further impacted by broader financial slowdowns, particularly in industrial and automotive sales, which contributed to the downtrend in prices.

The price trend for graphite in China for Q2 2024 settled at 804 USD/MT in June. The market was characterized by significant price declines in Q2 2024, driven by an oversupply that was not matched by demand growth. This imbalance was exacerbated by unfavorable trade policies and a seasonal mismatch in market activities, which together fostered bearish market sentiment throughout the quarter.

In Germany, the graphite prices for Q2 2024 reached 858 USD/MT in June. The market revealed a strong negative trend in Q2 2024, influenced by oversupply issues and tepid demand from key sectors like automotive and construction. Besides, economic factors, including a manufacturing slowdown and rising production costs, played a critical role in driving down graphite costs, amidst broader market challenges.

Graphite Prices Q1 2024

The graphite prices in the United States for Q1 2024 reached 1157 USD/MT in March. The graphite prices mirrored the overall stability of the North American market with slight fluctuations. Early in the year, the construction sector faced a downturn, leading to a modest decline in prices. However, stability resumed shortly thereafter. Seasonal slowdowns during the winter season typically decreased construction activity, influencing market dynamics. Overall, the graphite market in the United States maintained a steady course through the quarter.

The price trend for graphite in China for Q1 2024 settled at 879 USD/MT in March. The market during this period saw pronounced fluctuations, primarily due to decreased national requirements from key industrial sectors. The automotive and construction industries' reduced activity led to a dip in graphite prices. Additionally, challenges in obtaining raw materials and growing inventory levels further pressured the market, resulting in an overall decline in the graphite pricing environment.

In Germany, the graphite prices for Q1 2024 reached 872 USD/MT in March. The market was influenced by various factors, including changes in the political landscape and economic strategies. Despite lower energy costs reducing production expenses, the market saw fluctuating prices due to mixed performance across several sectors. While the automotive sector showed positive signs, the construction industry lagged, impacting the overall market conditions. Germany's robust export activity in February highlighted its significant market position.

Graphite Prices Q4 2023

In North America, graphite pellets 94%, -100 mesh CFR Houston exhibit a rising trend over the last 12 months, buying pattern giving an indication of demand. The analysis in depth of quarter dynamics revealed complex pricing disparities between the Monday trade and the Wednesday/Friday trade. This exploration resulted in a quarterly contract FOT Houston in the USA in the North American graphite market at 1164 USD/MT reflecting the intricate factors influencing the market by the end of 2023.

On the other hand, in China, graphite flakes (94%, -100 mesh) FOB Shanghai showed great stability in price during that time last year. Nevertheless, the market proved its resilience with its simple 4% correction from the previous quarter. The inter-quarter dynamics demonstrated in-depth analysis and fairness of pricing in the first and second halves revealed. Comprehensive exploration led to the close sale price of graphite flakes (94%, -100 mesh) FOB Shanghai in China, which recorded to be 864 USD/MT, mirroring the ongoing dominating factors shaping the APAC Graphite market by the end of 2023.

Germany was last among the major markets with graphite flakes (+94%, -100 mesh) (from Hamburg) exhibiting equilibrium during the past year, which showed the strength of the market. The continuous pricing ups and downs from the prior year proved to be a strong point for the market as it adjusted for a stable 4% gain from the last quarter. Whereas the details about inter-quarter dynamics showed more precise discrepancies in pricing between the first and second half. The last winter in it was the quarter-ending price of graphite flakes (94%, -100 mesh) Ex Hamburg in Germany, displayed at 889 USD/MT, consisting of the significance of all factors that affected the development of European graphite market from the third to the fourth quarters of 2023.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of FOB and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the graphite price trend.

Global Graphite Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global graphite pricing trends in the form of graphite price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights current price levels but also provides insights into historical price of graphite, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes. The report also delves into price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed graphite demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Graphite Price Trend

Q4 2024:

In the last quarter of 2024, the graphite market in Europe saw continued price declines, with Germany leading this downward trajectory. Ample supply from Madagascar and reduced freight costs eased market pressures, yet weak demand persisted across key industries, including construction and electric vehicle production. The economic struggles in Germany, compounded by sluggish manufacturing activity, deepened the market’s challenges. Shifts toward synthetic graphite further dampened natural graphite demand, while reduced costs for factory inputs highlighted a fragile economic environment. Despite minor improvements in industrial performance, the year ended with surplus graphite and depressed prices, as geopolitical and economic uncertainties weighed heavily on the region.

Q3 2024:

The third quarter of 2024 saw price drops in Europe's graphite market, mostly as a result of waning demand from vital businesses including the steel and automotive sectors. The market was oversupplied as a result of these circumstances. Although there were no supply-side interruptions due to the stability of production and export levels, the falling demand was unable to be countered, which caused prices to decline. As a result of the concentrated intensity of the wider market trends, Germany saw the most severe price changes. Besides, consistent price decreases reflected these difficult circumstances, and the general market attitude remained pessimistic.

Q2 2024:

In the second quarter of 2024, the European Union (EU) Critical Raw Materials Act caused a temporary surplus in the graphite market in Europe, which in turn caused prices to drop despite efforts to increase local production. Moreover, rising inflation, shifting energy prices, and higher manufacturing costs associated with alloy surcharges all contributed to the pressures. These elements added to the general downward trend in prices, as did worldwide disturbances like changed shipping lanes and geopolitical unrest. Besides, the largest price swings occurred in Germany, where general industrial slowdowns were exacerbated by dwindling demand from the building and automobile industries.

Q1 2024:

The market during the early quarter of 2024 was marked by complexity in pricing, driven by various influencing factors in Europe. In Germany, diverse sectoral activities led to price fluctuations, while shifts in governmental and economic support within the European Union (EU) also played a role, especially in Eastern and Central Europe. Although the automotive sector experienced growth, a sluggish construction industry negatively affected the market. Additionally, global scrap price variations added to the uncertainties. Despite these challenges, Germany's export strength in February indicated robust market activity. Moreover, lower power costs contributed to a reduction in production costs, affecting graphite prices across Europe.

Q4 2023:

In Europe, the Q4 2023 graphite pricing scenario presented very interesting trends that shaped the marketplace environment. The lack of mentioned plants’ shutdowns indicated a resilience of the industry and thus a positive trading environment was created. This stability was underlined by the continuous demand from the key business areas i.e. steel and lithium-ion battery manufacturing. Furthermore, the continual investments in infrastructure and the rise of technological breakthroughs lifted the sentiments in the market as several firms increased their production capabilities. Although clouded with geopolitical uncertainties, Europe remains a strong actor on the world graphite stage due to its environmental leadership and manufacturing progress.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed graphite price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Graphite Price Trend

Q4 2024:

In the last quarter of 2024, North America graphite prices faced notable declines due to market volatility and geopolitical challenges. Heavy reliance on imports from key suppliers such as China, Madagascar, and Mozambique shaped regional dynamics, while global production adjustments further strained supply chains. Despite government initiatives to diversify sources and boost domestic manufacturing, production hurdles persisted. Demand in the U.S. remained uneven, with electric vehicle production experiencing fluctuations and construction slowing amid high mortgage rates. Industrial sectors like steel showed resilience, but the dominance of China in graphite production added to market pressures. Efforts to secure long-term supply agreements hinted at recovery potential in 2025.

Q3 2024:

During the third quarter of 2024, the market faced a downturn, influenced by various market dynamics in North America. The United States was particularly affected, with a noticeable decrease in graphite prices due to an oversupply caused by steady production and an influx of imports. This surplus was met with lackluster demand from industries such as manufacturing and construction, which were slowed by financial uncertainties and consumer disinterest. Additionally, logistic challenges and lower freight rates played a role in shaping the market. Despite operational stability, including the absence of plant closures, the pricing trends were predominantly negative throughout the period.

Q2 2024:

In North America, the graphite market faced considerable challenges throughout the second quarter of 2024, primarily driven by an oversupply and weakened demand due to economic volatility and diplomatic tensions. Logistical problems, such as higher freight prices and shipment delays, made these situations worse. Notably, the supply chain disruptions contributed to a negative price environment, as supply continuously exceeded demand. Significant price drops were observed in the United States in particular, which were exacerbated by a seasonal slowdown in manufacturing activity and more general economic issues including declining industrial and fewer vehicle sales.

Q1 2024:

During the Q1 quarter of 2024, the graphite market in North America exhibited a stable pricing trajectory with a slight upward trend toward the quarter's end. The stability in prices was attributed to consistent requirements and an ample supply that became more efficient as winter weather circumstances eased. Moreover, factors such as inflationary pressures mildly impacted consumer purchasing power, potentially influencing market dynamics. Besides, key industries such as construction and automotive, which are significant graphite customers, maintained steady demand levels. This period saw no substantial changes in demand compared to previous quarters, suggesting a balanced market with controlled pricing environments.

Q4 2023:

The graphite market in North America for Q4 2023 was dominated by moving factors that defined the market pattern during that period. The absence of reported plant shutdowns, and the continuity of the industry's operations, was an indicator of the resilience, which created an optimistic outlook. USA being the key country for the regional dynamic, we try to unravel the different elements which are behind the price fluctuations. The analysis is not limited to pricing alone, it explores the critical areas of trends, seasonality, and correlation as it builds a story of the complex market structure that guided the decisions on trade and investment directions during the quarter.

Specific graphite historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Graphite Price Trend

The report explores the graphite pricing trends in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on graphite prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Graphite Price Trend

Q4 2024:

The graphite market in the Asia-Pacific region experienced moderate price drops during the final quarter of 2024, influenced by low demand and evolving supply trends. Consistent output, bolstered by support from Madagascar and Brazil, helped maintain supply levels, but economic uncertainty affected purchasing behaviors. China, a major player, reduced production amid seasonal factors and weaker demand across sectors like construction and automotive. Inventory management practices in the battery sector also tempered market activity. Geopolitical tensions and tighter export regulations impacted exports, while domestic demand remained inconsistent. Despite these challenges, steady production and technological advancements suggested the potential for stable market in the coming year.

Q3 2024:

The Asia Pacific graphite market saw a significant reduction in prices throughout the third quarter of 2024, led by a pronounced decline in China. An overabundance of supply, spurred by manufacturing expansions, coupled with weak demand from key sectors like automotive and construction, pressed the market downwards. Economic difficulties and subdued consumer confidence further exacerbated the situation. The market's bearish stance was consistent, with prices dropping steadily without any interruptions from plant shutdowns. This period marked a stimulating phase for the graphite industry in the region, with continuous pressure from increasing supply levels and dampened demand.

Q2 2024:

In Q2 2024, graphite prices declined in the Asia Pacific area. This was mostly caused by an overabundance of supply that outstripped even moderate to growing requirements from industries like electronics and electric cars. The market was further stressed by stable mining outputs and rising production as well as trade restrictions including export bans and tariffs. The noteworthy price declines occurred in China, where a mismatch between strong supply and slow demand resulted in lower prices, indicating a lack of confidence among firms and investors. There were no major production disruptions to change the direction of the sinking market, thus the downward trend persisted throughout the quarter.

Q1 2024:

The Asia Pacific region faced a turbulent graphite market in the first quarter of 2024, characterized by significant price volatility. Moreover, the graphite market was notably affected by reduced requirements from critical industries like automotive and construction in China. Challenges in obtaining and managing high stocks exacerbated market pressures. Despite stable supply levels, the overall demand across the Asia Pacific region was subdued, leading to a downward pricing trend. This decline was primarily driven by weak domestic consumption and challenging market conditions, resulting in a generally unfavorable pricing environment for graphite.

Q4 2023:

In the Asia-Pacific region, the graphite price map for Q4 2023 revealed its particularities capturing the complexities of three main factors that determined its outcome. Throughout the quarter no plants were reported to have been shut down. This speaks to the resilience of the factories to remain functional. When the key player of the Chinese graphite market that occupies the world market needs to be noted, the price movements have been carried out that demonstrate the region's control over price movements. On the other hand, technologies and policies related to the environment also serve as drivers of market dynamics whereas it points to the complicated interaction between economic elements as well as regulatory framework as they both contribute to the price of graphite in APAC region.

This graphite price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Graphite Price Trend

The analysis of graphite prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Graphite Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC's latest publication, “Graphite Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” presents a detailed examination of the graphite market, providing insights into both global and regional trends that are shaping prices. This report delves into the spot price of graphite at major ports and analyzes the composition of prices, including FOB and CIF terms. It also presents a detailed graphite price trend analysis by region, covering North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and Middle East and Africa. The factors affecting graphite pricing, such as the dynamics of supply and demand, geopolitical influences, and sector-specific developments, are thoroughly explored. This comprehensive report helps stakeholders stay informed with the latest market news, regulatory updates, and technological progress, facilitating informed strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Graphite Industry Analysis

The global graphite industry size reached US$ 25.2 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 46.2 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 7% during 2023-2032.

• The graphite market experiences great growth with the ongoing swift development of EV sector. As per the International Council of Clean Transportation, EV sales accounted for about 125,000 in Q1 of 2021 and increased by 185,000 in Q4 of 2021 and about 300,000 in Q1 of 2023 that grew by 375,000 in Q3 of 2023. With unbelievable strides in this area, graphene materials see the largest increase, largely focused on lithium-ion batteries that power electric cars. The global governments have been tightening emission regulations and providing incentives for EV turnout, and in the future the market for electric vehicles is right for significant boost. As a result, the consumption of graphite will increase substantially.
• Graphite, which is used extensively in wind energy turbines and solar panels, due to its durability and high strength, plays a pivotal role in renewable energy infrastructure. The International Energy Agency comes with the remarkable news on the over 30% growth in foreign investments in renewable energy. This swell is given rise to by varied areas, which are made up of environmental matters, the government motives, and the technology growth. With the globe getting greener and going for CO2-free forms of energy, the demand for graphite-based materials in renewable energy infrastructure keeps on seeing the ceiling. Graphite possessing vital characteristics, it is used in this industry broadening the market and making it indispensable in the context ofenergy transformation.
• Graphite continues to be an indispensable part of steel and refractory material manufacturers. As per the World Steel Association, the world steel production market has had a 5% yearly rise since last year. The latter is based on several reasons, such as urbanization, construction of amenities and large industries in developing countries. Among the metalworking tools, the graphite electrodes and crucibles are mainly responsible for the operation of the electric arc furnaces. If other steel structures are in demand in the world, the demand for graphite continues to develop gradually. However, the latest developments in steelmaking technologies underscore the role played by graphite beyond all questions strengthening its position for steady growth and its valuable for steel & refractories industries.
• Technological advances, and especially the development of graphene, make the graphite market move forward. According to the World Intellectual Property Organization, the number of patents related to graphite-based innovations has shown a dramatic increase of 50%. Graphene is an amazing single-layer of the graphite which is the source of the revolution everywhere, mainly in the areas of electronics, aerospace, and health care. The complex interplay between technological advancements and material needs underscores the growing demand for graphite as the graphene precursor component. Moreover, the increasing research and development expenditures will fuel the innovations in the graphite market, which will lead to the emergence of new application areas and possibly epand its market outreach.

Graphite News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the price of graphite, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, technological innovations, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the graphite price trend.

Latest developments in the graphite industry:

• In January 2025, the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) spotlighted a project by Graphite One and Vorbeck Materials to create an environmentally-friendly firefighting foam. The Congressionally-funded initiative aims to replace traditional foam used by U.S. military and civilian firefighting agencies, utilizing graphite sourced from Graphite One’s deposit in Alaska.
• In October 2024, Graphite One Inc. disclosed that it had obtained a non-binding Letter of Interest from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), considering potential debt financing of up to $325 million. The proposed funding aims to assist Graphite One’s initiative to develop a fully integrated U.S.-based supply chain for high-performance graphite materials.
• In January 2023, POSCO Chemical started building its second factory intended for the production of synthetic graphite anode material of 10KT per annum. This is a manifestation of the fact that the demand for graphite is increasing and that the electric automobile sector is developing extensively. With the technological progress in the battery industry and increasing electric car sales, there is a growing demand for battery-grade graphite anode materials. The investment of POSCO Chemical shows they are determined to fulfill this requirement and they play their role as a leader supplier in the graphite market and furthermore they are equipped to meet the evolving requirements of the industries such as renewable energy and automotive.
• In March 2021, SGL Carbon accomplished USD 155.7 million IPCEI grant for its graphite anode product (GAM) that can be used in lithium-ion batteries. The financing of this project by SGL Carbon aims to develop innovative anode materials for electromobility within Europe, making Europe the leader of this technology qualification. With the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) all over the world, the innovation of battery technologies is a vital factor in achieving sustainability and the improvements of vehicle performance. SGL Carbon's effort reinforces Europe's place in the electromobility market and also gives birth to new technological innovation and economic development. The project supports the needs of such investments in renewable energy and research into batteries that will render our future sustainable.

Product Description

Graphite is actually a crystalized form of carbon, which is composed of carbon atoms, which are bonded very tightly, and are arranged into an elaborate pattern of hexagonal layers. Carbon nanotubes are found in nature; but some CNTs can also be manufactured using graphitization of carbon materials through the synthetic process.

Graphite has certain features that make it the most fundamental material in manufacturing. Conductivity of a metal and its high melting point are critical in the production process; these properties make it suitable for using in electric arc furnaces connected to the steelmaking, as a crucible through metallurgy and as a molecular lubricant during operation of machines. It also receives attention from the aerospace and automotive industries in this regard as there is an involvement in making components like those brake calipers and gaskets as carbon is light weighted and strong.

The most important use of graphite in batteries is in lithium-ion type, where it functions as the anode due to its ability to deliver energy promptly but store it efficiently. This role in energy storage is vital in applications as wide as consumer electronics to electric vehicles, boosting the demand for graphite which may also be a big player in a world where renewable sources of energy and electrification are thriving.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of graphite pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of FOB and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting graphite price trend, including input costs, supply-demand shifts, and geopolitical impacts, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The graphite price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.