Carbon Black Market Report (January 20)

January 21, 2026, 9:39 AM

TDD-global

4621

Guide

Highlights at a glance

This report provides a concise analysis of the current carbon black market based on recent data. The carbon black price index remained stable at 6419.5 as of January 20. Key factors influencing the market include: upstream coal tar prices holding steady at regional levels (e.g., 3790 yuan/ton in Shandong), a slight decline in carbon black operating rates as some large producers reduce lines due to high raw material costs, and flexible downstream demand where tire and rubber companies adjust production based on inventory and orders. The market outlook suggests cost pressure from rising coal tar tenders may support firm new order prices, but downstream resistance to high prices and subdued negotiation activity indicate a cautious wait-and-see sentiment among participants. This analysis is particularly relevant for global chemical buyers and suppliers monitoring cost trends and supply dynamics in the carbon black industry.

01 Carbon Black Index

According to data from TuDuoDuo, the carbon black price index was 6419.5 on January 20th, remaining stable compared to the previous trading day.

02 Carbon Black Market Price

03 Analysis of the Impact on the Carbon Black Market

1. Upstream Raw Materials: Coal tar prices in Shandong were 3790 yuan/ton; in Shanxi, 3690 yuan/ton; and in Hebei, 3750 yuan/ton. The domestic high-temperature coal tar market is currently stable with a wait-and-see attitude. As coal tar prices reach high levels, the potential for further upward movement is narrowing.

2. Carbon Black Supply: The operating rate of sample carbon black enterprises declined slightly. Affected by rising raw material prices, some large factories began to reduce production lines, while other smaller factories maintained low operating rates. Meanwhile, manufacturers in southern regions have maintained low operating rates for an extended period. Overall, the operating rate of carbon black enterprises has declined.

3. Downstream Demand: Enterprises are flexibly adjusting production schedules based on their own inventory, shipments, and orders. Enterprises that limited production last week may have plans to increase production this week. Some enterprises, facing shipment pressure, have moderately reduced production, maintaining flexibility. Overall, supply is expected to fluctuate slightly. Recently, shipments from some enterprises in Shandong have slowed slightly due to weather conditions.

04. Market Outlook

As of now, new coal tar tenders in some regions continue to rise, leading to a certain upward trend in costs. This is beneficial for new order quotations in the market. However, downstream resistance to high prices is high, and the atmosphere for actual order negotiations is currently subdued. Market participants are adopting a wait-and-see approach, and new order prices are expected to remain firm.

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