【SMM Analysis】August Flake Graphite Export Landscape Diverges: South Korea Rises to Become the Largest Market

Published: Sep 20, 2026 15:37

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In August 2026, China's flake graphite imports reached 9,368 tonnes, up 62% MoM and up 425% YoY.

In August 2026, on the export side, monthly exports stood at 6,360 tonnes, down 14% MoM and down 2% YoY.

From the perspective of export destination structure, the market landscape showed significant divergence. Among the growth drivers, South Korea increased by 523,000 tonnes MoM (1.033 million → 1.556 million tonnes, +51%), rising to become the largest export market; Japan grew 85%; Spain surged 540% but from a low base; Iran grew 87%; and Vietnam increased by 37,000 tonnes. Among the main drags, Germany fell by 966,000 tonnes MoM (-61%); the United States declined 32% MoM; Türkiye dropped 74% MoM; and Russia decreased by 48,000 tonnes.

Data Source Statement: Except for publicly available information, all other data are processed by SMM based on publicly available information, market communication, and relying on SMM's internal database model. They are for reference only and do not constitute decision-making recommendations.

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