GrafTech International Ltd. has announced a price increase of USD 600-1,200 per ton on uncommitted graphite electrode volumes, as part of efforts to restore pricing and improve profitability.
The company said the increase, effective immediately, reflects continued pricing pressure across key markets, with electrode prices remaining below sustainable levels despite rising costs for energy, logistics and oil-based raw materials. Most of the financial impact is expected to be realized in the second half of 2026.
In Q1 2026, GrafTech reported improving volumes but continued margin pressure. Sales volumes rose 14pct YoY to around 28,000 tons, with net sales reaching approximately USD 125 mln. However, average realized prices declined to about USD 3,900 per ton, down 5pct YoY, weighing on earnings.
The company reported a net loss of USD 43 mln, while adjusted EBITDA remained negative at around USD 14 mln. Production volume stood at 29,400 tons, up from 28,500 tons in Q1 2025, with capacity utilization at 65pct.
Looking ahead, GrafTech expects a modest improvement in demand in 2026, supported by stable steel production trends outside China. The company continues to target a 5-10pct increase in electrode sales volumes, with more than 85pct of volumes already committed. While volumes are expected to improve, the company is prioritizing pricing recovery and cost optimization, with a low single-digit decline in unit cash costs anticipated for the year.
GrafTech is a leading manufacturer of graphite electrodes used in electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking and other metallurgical processes. The company operates a vertically integrated model with in-house petroleum needle coke production, supporting cost competitiveness and supply security.