Exports of Prebaked Anode Dropped Sharply in August, and the Weak Overseas Demand Led to Concerns in the Market Outlook

SHANGHAI, Sep 27 (SMM) - According to customs data, China's prebaked anode exports in August were 141,600 mt, down 31.43% month on month and up 6.99% year on year. According to customs statistics, the export unit prices of prebaked anode stood at $1,334.55/mt, a month-on-month increase of 1.29%. At the same time, from January to August this year, the exports of prebaked anode totalled 1,365,400 mt, much higher than 244,800 mt in the same period last year.

From the perspective of export destinations, the exports to Malaysia, Norway and the Russian Federation declined more significantly. The exports to Malaysia fell by over 25,000 mt compared with July, that to Norway also decreased by about 14,000 mt.

The exports of pre-baked anodes in August decreased sharply compared with July. But in terms of this year, the overall exports in August was within the normal range. The overseas market orders still exist, but orders from Europe and the United States decreased obviously. On the one hand, as the overseas energy costs were relatively high, the production of aluminium was affected and demand for aluminium carbon decreased. On the other hand, under the influence of overseas weak macro front, LME aluminium prices fell, and the high export prices of domestic prebaked anode reduced the profits of overseas aluminium plants. Therefore, many aluminium companies were less willing to purchase. In this scenario, it is expected that the exports of prebaked anode in September will be around 130,000-160,000 mt.