Industrial Minerals reported that for the foreseeable future, flake graphite prices are likely to continue moving in a volatile fashion as a result of limited supply outside of China and unpredictable demand. However, prices are currently “significantly” higher than they were before the global economic crash.

As quoted in the market news:

“High purity (94-97%), large flake graphite (+80 mesh) – the sought-after grade for EV battery technology – is now $1,350/tonne on a CIF basis shipped into Europe. This is 64% higher than the average 2000-2009 price of $823/tonne.

Prices of medium flake material (94-97% C, -100 mesh, CIF, Europe), the more commonly traded product for industrial steel refractories, are also holding up at $1,050/tonne, 61% higher than the 2000-2009 average of $650/tonne.

Simon Moores, manager of Industrial Minerals, commented:

“Flake graphite supply is delicately balanced with little margin for error. China dominates global production with a 73% market share in 2012 according to our new statistics. Limited supply elsewhere together with unpredictable demand has resulted in the volatile prices seen over the last five years.

We don’t see this situation changing any time soon.