Prebaked Anode Exports in Guangxi, Henan and Shandong Double in February

SHANGHAI, Apr. 16 (SMM) – According to China Customs, prebaked anode exports in Guangxi, Henan and Shandong, China’s major prebaked anode producing provinces, hit 108,537 mt in February, a striking 112% YoY growth, compared with 250,910 mt during January and February.

SMM data indicate prebaked anode export price in the three provinces in February averaged USD 606/mt, USD 607/mt, and USD 599/mt, respectively, down 7% YoY, 9% YoY, and 5% YoY.

Chinese prebaked anode producers remain willing to step up exports even when export prices have fallen for three reasons. First, demand overseas is more stable and payment cycle is shorter. Second, growing prebaked anode output at aluminum smelters self-equipped with prebaked anode plants are eroding market shares of independent carbon plants. Third, production cuts at aluminum smelters early this year negatively affected orders at prebaked anode producers.