Market Overview
China’s carbon fiber market has reached a new equilibrium, with mid-July data showing stable pricing across most product categories. While entry-level products experience modest price pressure, premium grades continue to command strong market positions due to technological innovations and specialized applications.
Current Pricing Landscape
Standard Grades
T300 12K: RMB 80–90/kg (delivered)
T300 24K/48K: RMB 65–80/kg
*(Volume discounts of RMB 5–10/kg available for bulk purchases)*
Performance Grades
T700 12K/24K: RMB 85–120/kg
(Driven by renewable energy and hydrogen storage demand)
T800 12K: RMB 180–240/kg
(Primary applications in aerospace and specialized industrial uses)
Market Dynamics
The sector currently presents a dual narrative:
Traditional markets (particularly renewable energy) show tepid demand growth, keeping T300 prices in check
Niche applications including advanced drone systems and next-generation hydrogen storage demonstrate robust demand for specialized carbon fiber products
Capacity utilization remains below optimal levels industry-wide (60-70%), creating particular challenges for smaller producers competing in commoditized segments.
Innovation and Outlook
Jilin Chemical Fiber’s breakthrough in T800 large-tow production represents a potential game-changer for high-end manufacturing economics. Market watchers anticipate:
Near-term stability in T300 pricing, potentially dipping below RMB 80/kg
Sustained premium pricing for T700/T800 products due to technical complexities
Long-term growth anchored in cutting-edge applications like electric air mobility and clean energy solutions
Industry Perspective
“China’s carbon fiber sector is undergoing a fundamental transformation,” notes a leading materials analyst. “The focus has shifted decisively from production volume to technological capability, particularly for aerospace and energy applications requiring the highest performance standards.”
Strategic Considerations
As the market continues to evolve, participants should monitor:
Adoption rates in emerging technology sectors
Breakthroughs in production efficiency
Shifting competitive dynamics among domestic producers
The current market phase presents both challenges for standard-grade producers and significant opportunities for companies focused on high-performance solutions.