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    Needle Coke Market

    ID: MRFR/E&P/26963-HCR
    111 Pages
    Priya Nagrale
    October 2025

    Needle Coke Market Research Report By Grade (High Modulus, Premium, Normal), By Application (Steelmaking, Foundry Coke, Batteries, Graphite Electrodes), By Feedstock (Delayed Coker Bottoms, Vacuum Gas Oil, Pitch), By Process (Delayed Coking, Fluid Coking, Flexicoking) and By Regional (North America, Europe, South America, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa) - Forecast to 2035

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    Needle Coke Market Infographic
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    Needle Coke Market Summary

    The Global Needle Coke Market is projected to grow from 3.21 USD Billion in 2024 to 4.72 USD Billion by 2035.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    Needle Coke Key Trends and Highlights

    • The market is expected to witness a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.59% from 2025 to 2035.
    • By 2035, the market valuation is anticipated to reach 4.73 USD Billion, indicating robust growth.
    • in 2024, the market is valued at 3.21 USD Billion, reflecting a strong foundation for future expansion.
    • Growing adoption of electric vehicles due to increasing environmental concerns is a major market driver.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size 3.21 (USD Billion)
    2035 Market Size 4.72 (USD Billion)
    CAGR (2025-2035) 3.57%

    Major Players

    Showa Denko, SGL Carbon, GrafTech International, Nippon Carbon, Tokai Carbon, JX Nippon Oil & Energy, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, Jiangsu Sanmei Carbon, Xinhui Carbon, OCI, Changshu Yulong, Niacet, Needle Coke Enterprises, China Carbon Technology, JFE Steel, Kureha, Xuzhou Oupu Carbon, Jiangsu Huatai, Teijin

    Needle Coke Market Trends

    The  needle coke market is experiencing significant growth, driven by rising demand from steel mills and graphite electrode manufacturers. The increasing use of electric arc furnaces (EAFs) in steel production is a major factor driving demand for needle coke, as it is an essential raw material in the production of graphite electrodes.

    Additionally, the growing demand for lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles and renewable energy applications is also contributing to market growth, as needle coke is a key component in the production of anode materials.

    Key market trends include the increasing use of needle coke in the production of large-diameter graphite electrodes, the development of new technologies to improve the quality and efficiency of needle coke production, and the growing demand for needle coke from emerging markets.

    Opportunities for growth exist in the expansion of EAF steel production capacity, the development of new applications for needle coke, and the increasing adoption of renewable energy technologies.

    In recent times, the  needle coke market has witnessed key trends, including advancements in electrode design and manufacturing, the development of ultra-high power (UHP) needle coke, and the growing demand for needle coke from the semiconductor industry.

    These trends are expected to drive market growth in the coming years, with increasing adoption of EAF steel production, rising demand for electric vehicles, and the expansion of renewable energy projects.

     

    The global needle coke market is poised for growth, driven by increasing demand in the lithium-ion battery and electric vehicle sectors, which may reshape the landscape of energy storage solutions.

    U.S. Department of Energy

    Needle Coke Market Drivers

    Market Growth Projections

    The Global Needle Coke Market Industry is projected to experience substantial growth over the coming years. In 2024, the market is estimated to be valued at 3.21 USD Billion, with expectations to reach 4.73 USD Billion by 2035. This growth trajectory suggests a compound annual growth rate of 3.59% from 2025 to 2035. Various factors, including increased demand from the lithium-ion battery sector, expansion of graphite electrode production, and advancements in production technologies, contribute to this positive outlook. The market's expansion reflects the broader trends in energy storage and high-performance materials, positioning needle coke as a critical component in future industrial applications.

    Growing Demand for Lithium-ion Batteries

    The Global Needle Coke Market Industry experiences a surge in demand driven by the increasing production of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are essential for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage systems. As the automotive sector shifts towards electrification, the need for high-performance materials like needle coke becomes critical. In 2024, the market is projected to reach 3.21 USD Billion, reflecting the industry's response to this growing demand. The trend is expected to continue, with the market potentially reaching 4.73 USD Billion by 2035, indicating a robust growth trajectory fueled by advancements in battery technology.

    Expansion of Graphite Electrode Production

    The Global Needle Coke Market Industry is significantly influenced by the expansion of graphite electrode production. Graphite electrodes are vital for electric arc furnaces used in steel manufacturing. As global steel production increases, the demand for high-quality graphite electrodes rises, subsequently boosting the needle coke market. The anticipated compound annual growth rate of 3.59% from 2025 to 2035 suggests a steady increase in production capacity. This expansion is likely to enhance the market's value, contributing to the projected growth from 3.21 USD Billion in 2024 to 4.73 USD Billion by 2035, as manufacturers seek to meet the rising demand.

    Regulatory Support for Sustainable Materials

    The Global Needle Coke Market Industry benefits from regulatory support aimed at promoting sustainable materials and manufacturing practices. Governments worldwide are implementing policies that encourage the use of environmentally friendly materials in various industries, including automotive and construction. This regulatory landscape is likely to drive demand for needle coke, as it is considered a more sustainable option compared to traditional petroleum-based products. The anticipated growth in the market, from 3.21 USD Billion in 2024 to 4.73 USD Billion by 2035, may be partially attributed to these supportive regulations, which incentivize manufacturers to adopt needle coke in their production processes.

    Rising Demand from Aerospace and Defense Sectors

    The Global Needle Coke Market Industry is experiencing rising demand from the aerospace and defense sectors, where high-performance materials are critical. Needle coke is utilized in the production of advanced carbon composites and components that require exceptional strength and thermal resistance. As global defense spending increases and aerospace projects expand, the need for needle coke is likely to grow. This trend may contribute to the market's projected growth from 3.21 USD Billion in 2024 to 4.73 USD Billion by 2035. The aerospace sector's focus on lightweight materials further emphasizes the importance of needle coke in meeting stringent performance requirements.

    Technological Advancements in Needle Coke Production

    Technological advancements in the production of needle coke play a pivotal role in the Global Needle Coke Market Industry. Innovations in refining processes and production techniques enhance the quality and yield of needle coke, making it more competitive in various applications. These advancements not only improve efficiency but also reduce production costs, thereby attracting more manufacturers to the market. As a result, the industry is likely to witness increased investments in research and development, further driving growth. The market's value is expected to rise from 3.21 USD Billion in 2024 to 4.73 USD Billion by 2035, reflecting the impact of these technological improvements.

    Market Segment Insights

    Needle Coke Market Grade Insights

    Needle Coke Market Grade Insights

    The  Needle Coke Market is segmented by Grade into High Modulus, Premium, and Normal grades. Among these, the High Modulus grade held the largest market share in 2023 and is projected to continue its dominance throughout the forecast period.

    The high demand for High Modulus Needle Coke is attributed to its superior properties, such as high strength, stiffness, and thermal stability, which make it suitable for applications in high-performance electrodes, such as those used in electric arc furnaces and other industrial processes.

    Needle Coke Market Application Insights

    Needle Coke Market Application Insights

    The  Needle Coke Market is segmented by Application into Steelmaking, Foundry Coke, Batteries, and Graphite Electrodes. Steelmaking was the largest application segment, accounting for over 70% of the  Needle Coke Market revenue in 2023.

    The growth of the steelmaking industry, particularly in emerging economies, is driving the demand for Needle Coke. Foundry Coke is the second-largest application segment, accounting for around 15% of the  Needle Coke Market revenue in 2023. The increasing demand for castings in the automotive and construction industries is fueling the growth of this segment.

    Needle Coke Market Feedstock Insights

    Needle Coke Market Feedstock Insights

    The Feedstock segment plays a crucial role in the Needle Coke Market, with its components directly influencing the production and quality of needle coke. The three primary feedstocks used in needle coke production are Delayed Coker Bottoms, Vacuum Gas Oil, and Pitch. Delayed Coker Bottoms, a byproduct of delayed coking units in refineries, contribute significantly to the production of needle coke.

    Its high carbon content and low sulfur levels make it a suitable feedstock for producing high-quality needle coke. Vacuum Gas Oil, obtained from vacuum distillation units, serves as an alternative feedstock with a lower carbon content compared to Delayed Coker Bottoms.

    Needle Coke Market Process Insights

    Needle Coke Market Process Insights

    The  Needle Coke Market segmentation by Process comprises Delayed Coking, Fluid Coking, and Flexicoking. The Delayed Coking segment held the largest market share in 2023, owing to its wide adoption in refineries and its ability to produce high-quality needle coke.

    The fluid-coking segment is projected to witness significant growth over the forecast period, driven by the increasing demand for light olefins and the growing adoption of fluid-coking technology in new refineries. The Flexicoking segment is expected to grow at a steady pace, supported by its flexibility in producing various grades of needle coke and its ability to process a wide range of feedstocks.

    Overall, the  Needle Coke Market segmentation by Process offers a comprehensive overview of the various technologies used in the production of needle coke, providing valuable insights into their market performance and growth prospects.

    Get more detailed insights about Needle Coke Market

    Regional Insights

    The regional landscape of the Needle Coke Market exhibits distinct growth patterns across key regions. North America is projected to account for a significant share of the market, driven by robust demand from the steel and aluminum industries.

    Europe is anticipated to witness steady growth, supported by favorable government policies and increasing adoption of needle coke in automotive applications. Asia-Pacific (APAC) is expected to emerge as a major growth hub, fueled by the expanding steel and automotive sectors in countries like China and India.

    South America and the Middle East and Africa (MEA) are projected to contribute a smaller yet growing share to the  market, with increasing demand from emerging industries in these regions.

    Needle Coke Market Regional

    Source: Primary Research, Secondary Research, Market Research Future Database and Analyst Review

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    Major players in the Needle Coke Market are constantly striving to gain a competitive edge by investing in research and development, expanding their production capacities, and forming strategic partnerships. Leading Needle Coke Market players are focusing on developing innovative products that meet the evolving needs of customers and expanding their reach through acquisitions and joint ventures.

    The Needle Coke Market development is driven by the increasing demand for high-quality steel and graphite electrodes, which are used in various industries such as automotive, construction, and electronics. The competitive landscape of the Needle Coke Market is expected to remain dynamic, with new entrants emerging and existing players consolidating their positions through strategic initiatives.

    JX Nippon Oil & Energy, a leading company in the Needle Coke Market, has established a strong presence ly. With advanced production facilities and a robust distribution network, the company caters to a wide range of industries.

    JX Nippon Oil & Energy's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction has enabled it to maintain its position as a leading player. The company is actively involved in research and development to enhance its product offerings and meet the evolving needs of its customers.

    Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, a competitor in the Needle Coke Market, is known for its high-quality products and  presence. The company has a vertically integrated business model, which gives it control over the entire production process, from raw material sourcing to product distribution.

    Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation's focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility has earned it recognition in the industry. The company is continuously investing in research and development to improve its production processes and reduce its environmental impact.

    Key Companies in the Needle Coke Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q1 2024: Phillips 66 Announces Startup of New Needle Coke Production Line at Humber Refinery Phillips 66 announced the successful startup of a new needle coke production line at its Humber Refinery in the UK, expanding its capacity to supply the growing electric vehicle and steel sectors.
    • Q2 2024: Mitsubishi Chemical to Invest $150 Million in Expanding Needle Coke Output in Japan Mitsubishi Chemical announced a $150 million investment to expand its needle coke production facilities in Japan, aiming to meet rising demand from battery and steel manufacturers.
    • Q2 2024: Indian Oil Corporation Commissions New Needle Coke Plant at Paradip Refinery Indian Oil Corporation commissioned a new needle coke manufacturing unit at its Paradip Refinery, marking a significant step in domestic production for the Indian graphite electrode and battery industries.
    • Q3 2024: China National Petroleum Corporation Signs Long-Term Needle Coke Supply Agreement with LG Chem China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC) signed a multi-year supply agreement with LG Chem to provide battery-grade needle coke for use in lithium-ion battery anodes.
    • Q3 2024: Baosteel Group Launches 350,000-Ton Needle Coke Facility in Shanghai Baosteel Group officially launched operations at its new 350,000-ton annual capacity needle coke facility in Shanghai, the largest of its kind in China, to support the domestic steel and battery sectors.
    • Q4 2024: ENEOS Corporation and Panasonic Energy Announce Strategic Partnership for Needle Coke Supply ENEOS Corporation and Panasonic Energy entered a strategic partnership to secure a stable supply of high-purity needle coke for Panasonic’s battery manufacturing operations.
    • Q4 2024: JXTG Holdings Appoints New CEO to Lead Needle Coke Business Expansion JXTG Holdings announced the appointment of a new CEO to oversee the company’s needle coke business, with a mandate to accelerate growth in the battery materials sector.
    • Q1 2025: Phillips 66 Signs Multi-Year Needle Coke Supply Contract with POSCO Phillips 66 entered into a multi-year contract to supply needle coke to POSCO, one of the world’s largest steel producers, supporting POSCO’s graphite electrode production.
    • Q1 2025: Mitsubishi Chemical Launches New High-Purity Needle Coke Product for EV Batteries Mitsubishi Chemical introduced a new high-purity needle coke product specifically designed for use in electric vehicle battery anodes, targeting the rapidly growing EV market.
    • Q2 2025: Indian Oil Corporation Signs MoU with Tesla for Needle Coke Supply Indian Oil Corporation signed a memorandum of understanding with Tesla to explore the supply of needle coke for use in Tesla’s battery manufacturing operations.
    • Q2 2025: C-Chem Co., Ltd. Announces $100 Million Investment in Needle Coke R&D Center C-Chem Co., Ltd. announced a $100 million investment to establish a new research and development center focused on advanced needle coke materials for next-generation batteries.
    • Q3 2025: Phillips 66 to Spin Off Needle Coke Business in Planned IPO Phillips 66 revealed plans to spin off its needle coke business through an initial public offering, aiming to unlock value and focus on core refining operations.

    Future Outlook

    Needle Coke Market Future Outlook

    The Needle Coke Market is projected to grow at a 3.57% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by increasing demand in lithium-ion batteries and steel production.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in R&D for advanced needle coke production technologies to enhance efficiency. Explore partnerships with electric vehicle manufacturers for tailored needle coke solutions. Expand into emerging markets with growing steel and battery industries to capture new customer bases.

    By 2035, the Needle Coke Market is expected to achieve robust growth, reflecting evolving industry demands.

    Market Segmentation

    Needle Coke Market Grade Outlook

    • High Modulus
    • Premium
    • Normal

    Needle Coke Market Process Outlook

    • Delayed Coking
    • Fluid Coking
    • Flexicoking

    Needle Coke Market Regional Outlook

    • North America
    • Europe
    • South America
    • Asia Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa

    Needle Coke Market Feedstock Outlook

    • Delayed Coker Bottoms
    • Vacuum Gas Oil
    • Pitch

    Needle Coke Market Application Outlook

    • Steelmaking
    • Foundry Coke
    • Batteries
    • Graphite Electrodes

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/MetricDetails
    Market Size 2024   3.21 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 2025   3.33 (USD Billion)
    Market Size 20354.72 (USD Billion)
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)3.57% (2025 - 2035)
    Report CoverageRevenue Forecast, Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Base Year2024
    Market Forecast Period2025 - 2035
    Historical Data2019 - 2023
    Market Forecast UnitsUSD Billion
    Key Companies ProfiledJiangsu Sanmei Carbon, GrafTech International, Xinhui Carbon, OCI, Changshu Yulong, Niacet, Needle Coke Enterprises, China Carbon Technology, JFE Steel, Showa Denkon, Kureha, Tokai Carbon, Xuzhou Oupu Carbon, Jiangsu Huatai, Teijin
    Segments CoveredGrade, Application, Feedstock, Process, Regional
    Key Market OpportunitiesIncreased Electric Vehicles Demand Battery Technology Advancements Graphite Electrode Manufacturing Expansion Steel Industry Innovations Rising Aerospace Applications
    Key Market DynamicsRising steel production Increasing demand for battery anode Technological advancements
    Countries CoveredNorth America, Europe, APAC, South America, MEA

    FAQs

    What was the valuation of the needle coke market in 2024?

    The needle coke market was valued at 3.21 billion USD in 2024.

    What is the projected CAGR of the needle coke market from 2025 to 2034?

    The needle coke market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 3.57% from 2025 to 2034.

    What is the expected valuation of the needle coke market in 2034?

    The needle coke market is expected to reach a valuation of 4.56 billion USD by 2034.

    Which region held the largest share of the needle coke market in 2023?

    Asia-Pacific accounted for the largest share of the needle coke market in 2023.

    What are the key applications of needle coke?

    Needle coke is primarily used in the production of graphite electrodes, which are used in electric arc furnaces for steelmaking.

    Who are the major competitors in the needle coke market?

    Major competitors in the needle coke market include GrafTech International, Showa Denko, and Nippon Carbon.

    What factors are driving the growth of the needle coke market?

    The growth of the needle coke market is being driven by increasing demand for steel, particularly in emerging economies.

    What challenges does the needle coke market face?

    The needle coke market faces challenges such as fluctuations in raw material prices and competition from substitute materials.

    What are the key trends in the needle coke market?

    Key trends in the needle coke market include the development of new production technologies and the increasing use of needle coke in lithium-ion batteries.

    What is the outlook for the needle coke market?

    The outlook for the needle coke market is positive, with steady growth expected over the coming years.

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