Carbon Black Market Analysis: Weak Demand

December 18, 2025, 10:10 AM

TDD-global

5448

Guide

Highlights at a glance

The carbon black price index fell to 5892.5 on December 17, reflecting a decline of 43.5 points. This drop is driven by multiple factors: upstream coal tar prices remain subdued in key regions like Shandong, Shanxi, and Hebei, with market sentiment turning cautious. On the supply side, operational rates at carbon black plants have slightly decreased due to maintenance in northern regions and low capacity utilization in the south. Downstream, tire manufacturers face weak orders, leading to production cuts and rising inventories, especially in the semi-steel tire segment. Seasonal tire sales show mixed trends, with all-season tires driven only by immediate needs. Looking ahead, falling raw material costs and sluggish tire demand may further pressure carbon black pricing. For global buyers seeking reliable chemical partnerships, TDD-Global connects verified suppliers with transparent procurement solutions.

01 Carbon Black Index

According to data from TuDuoDuo, the carbon black price index was 5892.5 on December 17th, a decrease of 43.5 from the previous trading day.

02 Carbon Black Market Price

03 Analysis of Factors Affecting the Carbon Black Market

1. Upstream Raw Materials: Coal tar prices in Shandong were 3460 yuan/ton; in Shanxi, 3350 yuan/ton; and in Hebei, 3410 yuan/ton. The domestic high-temperature coal tar market remained quiet and cautious, with increasing negative factors making it difficult for prices to remain firm.

2. Carbon Black Supply: Carbon black plant operating rates declined slightly. A major plant in Shanxi and Henan underwent maintenance on some production lines. Northern carbon black plants were affected by supply guarantees, resulting in limited fluctuations in operating rates. Meanwhile, southern regions continued to operate at low capacity. Overall, the operating rate of carbon black plants showed a slight downward trend.

3. Downstream Demand: Insufficient orders and increased pressure on some semi-steel tire production capacity have led to production cuts at some companies in Shandong, resulting in overall weakening output and sluggish recent shipments. Finished product inventories at some companies are rising, and production and sales pressure remains. The market for snow tires has large channel inventories, with channel payments being the primary focus, increasing pressure for continued large-scale shipments. Sales of all-season tires are mainly driven by immediate needs.

04. Market Outlook

Currently, the raw material coal tar market is showing a downward trend, negatively impacting market sentiment due to cost factors. Downstream tire market demand is generally weak, and new order pricing may continue to decline. New order negotiations in the carbon black market are weak, with the transaction center showing a downward trend.

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