Data from Refractories Window shows: In April, the base price of fused alumina continued a slight downward trend, while prices of other bulk raw materials showed little significant change, mainly operating steadily.

【Fused Alumina】Fused alumina prices are stabilizing.

The price of industrial alumina continued to decline, falling below average market cost levels. This strengthened the willingness of holders to support prices through sales, leading to a slight rebound in industrial alumina prices. Affected by this, the costs of white fused alumina (WFA) and sintered alumina decreased, and their prices began to stabilize after adjustments.

Despite some cost support, the decline in WFA prices offered users more choices, forcing brown fused alumina (BFA) prices down initially. However, BFA prices then also started to stabilize.

【Bauxite】The ore supply issue remains unresolved.

The supply of ore from Shanxi mines is limited, often of lower grade, and prices remain high. The problem of ore supply is difficult to resolve. Throughout April, the bauxite market continued to navigate the dilemma of high ore prices coupled with weak market demand.

【Flake Graphite】Prices could face further downward pressure.

In April, flake graphite prices remained largely stable, although price points shifted downward with certain enterprises. As production capacity is gradually set to be released, the supply of flake graphite is expected to increase. However, with downstream demand showing no significant improvement, flake graphite prices may face further downward pressure.

【Magnesia】Weak demand leads to weakly stable magnesia.

Demand for magnesia is low, with buyers purchasing only as needed and no longer stockpiling large quantities. This has resulted in inventory buildup at magnesia producers. Currently, both fused and sintered magnesia producers are experiencing production halts. Influenced by end-users pushing prices down, market prices may fall further.

【Silicon Carbide】Silicon carbide market is weakly stable.

Supply of silicon carbide is ample, while demand is sluggish. Fierce competition among suppliers has led to price declines. Affected by tariffs, some manufacturers ceased importing petroleum coke from the US. Weak market demand hinders any rebound in silicon carbide prices. Some silicon carbide enterprises have chosen to temporarily halt production due to poor sales and low profitability.