Global Graphite Prices: Trends and Forecasts for 2026 in Milan

Graphite prices are a critical indicator for numerous industries, from electric vehicles to advanced materials. Understanding current global graphite prices is essential for businesses operating in or sourcing from Italy, particularly in manufacturing hubs like Milan. This article delves into the factors influencing graphite prices, provides insights into market trends, and forecasts for 2026, offering a comprehensive overview for Italian manufacturers and international investors. We will explore the dynamics of natural and synthetic graphite, demand drivers, supply chain challenges, and how these elements shape the global graphite market, with a specific focus on implications for businesses in Milan and across Italy.

The global demand for graphite continues to surge, driven primarily by the booming electric vehicle (EV) battery sector and the expansion of renewable energy technologies. As supply chains stabilize and new extraction and processing methods emerge, businesses need accurate, up-to-date information on graphite prices. This analysis aims to equip stakeholders with the knowledge needed to navigate the complexities of the graphite market in 2026 and beyond, highlighting opportunities and potential challenges for Italy’s industrial landscape.

What is Graphite and Its Market Significance?

Graphite, a form of carbon, is a unique material prized for its exceptional properties: high conductivity, thermal resistance, lubricity, and strength. These characteristics make it indispensable in a wide array of applications. In the context of global graphite prices, the market is broadly segmented into natural graphite and synthetic graphite. Natural graphite is mined from the earth and processed, while synthetic graphite is manufactured through high-temperature processes. The price of each type is influenced by different factors, though overall market sentiment and demand trends often affect both.

The significance of graphite in the global economy cannot be overstated. Its role in lithium-ion batteries, where it serves as the anode material, is a primary driver of demand. As the world transitions towards cleaner energy and electric transportation, the need for high-quality graphite is escalating. Furthermore, graphite is crucial for steel production (as a refractory material), in lubricants, pencils, electrodes, and advanced composites for aerospace and automotive industries. The consistent demand across these diverse sectors creates a complex pricing environment, where geopolitical factors, mining output, technological advancements, and environmental regulations all play a vital role in determining world graphite prices.

The Natural vs. Synthetic Graphite Divide

Natural graphite is classified into three main types based on its crystalline structure and occurrence: amorphous, flake, and vein graphite. Flake graphite, the most abundant type, is particularly sought after for battery applications due to its size and purity. Vein graphite, while rare, is of very high purity. Amorphous graphite, composed of smaller particles, is generally used in less demanding applications like lubricants and refractories. The extraction and processing costs for natural graphite significantly impact its market price, with disruptions in major producing regions like China, Africa, and South America directly affecting global availability and cost.

Synthetic graphite, on the other hand, is produced from petroleum coke or other carbonaceous materials. Its production is more energy-intensive and controlled, allowing for consistent quality and tailored properties. This makes it highly desirable for high-performance applications, such as anodes in premium EV batteries and specialized industrial processes. However, the higher production costs mean synthetic graphite typically commands a premium price compared to natural graphite, though its price is more stable and less subject to mining fluctuations. The interplay between these two forms of graphite dictates overall market dynamics and influences the price trends observed globally, including within Italy’s industrial sectors.

Key Demand Drivers for Graphite

The explosion of the electric vehicle market is the single largest contributor to graphite demand. Each EV battery requires a significant amount of graphite for its anode. With global EV sales projected to continue their upward trajectory through 2026 and beyond, the demand for battery-grade graphite is set to soar. This surge places immense pressure on supply chains and directly influences global graphite prices. Manufacturers in Italy, a country with a growing interest in automotive innovation and sustainability, are keenly watching these trends.

Beyond EVs, the renewable energy sector relies on graphite for solar panel production and energy storage systems. The construction industry uses graphite in specialized materials, while the aerospace and defense sectors incorporate it into high-performance components. Even traditional industries like steel manufacturing continue to depend on graphite for its refractory properties. The widespread utility of graphite ensures a robust and diverse demand base, making its market resilient and its price a key economic indicator for numerous global supply chains.

Understanding Global Graphite Prices: Factors Influencing the Market

The global graphite market is influenced by a confluence of factors, making it a dynamic and sometimes volatile environment. Understanding these elements is crucial for forecasting future price trends and making informed purchasing decisions, especially for industries in Italy that rely on this essential mineral. The prices observed in Milan today are a reflection of these intricate global forces.

Supply and demand are the most fundamental drivers. Increased demand, particularly from the EV battery sector, has put upward pressure on prices. Conversely, any disruption in supply, whether due to geopolitical instability in major producing countries, environmental regulations affecting mining operations, or logistical bottlenecks, can lead to price spikes. For instance, China’s dominance in graphite processing means any policy changes there have a significant ripple effect worldwide.

Supply-Side Dynamics: Mining and Production

The geographical concentration of graphite deposits and processing facilities is a critical factor. Major natural graphite producers include China, Mozambique, Brazil, and Madagascar. China, in particular, is a dominant force, controlling a significant portion of global graphite processing, especially for battery-grade materials. Any export restrictions or production curtailments in these regions directly impact global availability and pricing. For example, China’s recent export controls on certain graphite products sent ripples through the market, affecting prices for Italian manufacturers.

The cost of extraction and processing also plays a major role. Mining graphite involves significant capital investment and operational costs. Furthermore, the environmental impact of mining is increasingly scrutinized, leading to stricter regulations and higher compliance costs. These factors, coupled with the need for specialized refining processes to achieve battery-grade purity, contribute to the overall cost structure and, consequently, the market price of graphite. Innovations in extraction and processing technologies, while promising for future supply, can also introduce initial cost fluctuations.

Demand-Side Dynamics: Industrial Applications and Innovation

As highlighted, the electric vehicle revolution is the primary demand driver. The proliferation of EVs globally necessitates a massive increase in battery production, which in turn requires vast quantities of high-purity graphite for anodes. This demand is projected to grow exponentially through 2026. The automotive industry, a significant sector in Italy, is heavily invested in this transition, making graphite supply and pricing a strategic concern.

Beyond batteries, graphite’s unique properties lend themselves to a variety of other high-growth applications. In renewable energy, it is used in fuel cells and solar technologies. Advanced composites utilizing graphite are finding increased use in aerospace, sporting goods, and high-performance vehicles. The expansion of 5G technology and data centers also contributes to demand through their use in specialized electronic components. These diverse applications create a complex demand landscape that stabilizes and influences graphite prices across different market segments.

Geopolitical and Regulatory Influences

Geopolitical tensions and trade policies can significantly impact graphite prices. For example, export controls, tariffs, or sanctions involving major graphite-producing or processing nations can disrupt supply chains and create price volatility. The ongoing push for supply chain diversification by countries like the United States and European nations, including Italy, aims to mitigate these risks but can also lead to short-term price adjustments as new supply routes are established.

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations are also increasingly shaping the graphite market. Companies are under pressure to ensure ethical sourcing, minimize environmental impact, and adhere to fair labor practices. This can lead to higher production costs for compliant suppliers, potentially driving up prices, but also creating a premium for responsibly sourced graphite. Regulatory changes concerning mining, processing, and carbon emissions can further influence production costs and market dynamics, affecting overall graphite prices worldwide.

Navigating the Graphite Market: Trends and Forecasts for 2026

The global graphite market is in a state of rapid evolution, driven by technological advancements, geopolitical shifts, and the accelerating green energy transition. For businesses operating in Italy, understanding these trends and forecasts for 2026 is crucial for strategic planning and securing a reliable supply of this critical mineral. The prices observed today in Milan reflect these ongoing shifts.

One of the most significant trends is the drive towards supply chain diversification. The heavy reliance on China for processed graphite has prompted many countries, including those in the European Union, to invest in domestic or regional production capabilities. This includes exploration for new graphite deposits and the development of advanced processing technologies outside of China. While this offers long-term supply security, it may lead to regional price variations and necessitate new sourcing strategies for Italian businesses.

Key Market Trends to Watch

The expansion of electric vehicle production remains the dominant trend. As battery chemistries evolve, the demand for specific types of graphite, particularly spherical natural graphite and potentially silicon-anode materials, is increasing. Manufacturers are focusing on producing higher-purity, higher-performance graphite to meet the demands of next-generation batteries. This push for quality refinement drives innovation and influences pricing for premium-grade materials.

Another key trend is the increasing emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing. Consumers and regulators are demanding greater transparency and accountability in mineral supply chains. Companies that can demonstrate sustainable mining practices and ethical labor standards will likely gain a competitive advantage and may command premium pricing. This focus aligns with the European Union’s broader sustainability goals and impacts how graphite is sourced and traded globally, influencing prices for Italian consumers.

Graphite Price Forecast for 2026

Forecasting graphite prices involves analyzing multiple variables, including production levels, demand growth, inventory levels, and macroeconomic conditions. For 2026, many analysts predict continued price strength, particularly for battery-grade graphite, due to the sustained demand from the EV sector. While some price moderation might occur as new supply sources come online and processing capacities expand, the fundamental imbalance between rapidly growing demand and a complex supply chain is likely to keep prices elevated compared to historical averages.

The prices of different graphite types may diverge. High-purity natural flake graphite and high-quality synthetic graphite are expected to see the most significant price increases. Amorphous graphite and lower-grade materials may experience more stable or moderate price movements, depending on demand from industrial sectors like refractories and lubricants. For businesses in Italy, securing long-term contracts and exploring diverse sourcing strategies will be key to managing price volatility in 2026.

Impact on Italian Industries

Industries in Italy, particularly those involved in automotive manufacturing, renewable energy, and advanced materials, will feel the impact of these global graphite price trends. Rising graphite costs can affect the overall cost of EV batteries, potentially influencing the price of electric vehicles and impacting consumer adoption. Similarly, manufacturers relying on graphite for industrial processes will need to factor these price dynamics into their operational budgets and product pricing strategies.

The Italian government and industrial bodies are actively exploring ways to bolster domestic and European supply chains for critical minerals like graphite. Investments in research and development for graphite extraction and processing, as well as initiatives to promote recycling of graphite from end-of-life batteries, are underway. These efforts aim to reduce reliance on external suppliers, stabilize prices, and support the growth of Italy’s advanced manufacturing sectors in 2026 and beyond.

Why Maiyam Group is a Premier Partner for Graphite Sourcing

In the complex and dynamic global market for graphite, sourcing reliable, high-quality material is paramount. Maiyam Group stands out as a premier partner for industrial manufacturers, technology innovators, and battery producers worldwide, offering direct access to ethically sourced and rigorously quality-assured graphite. Our strategic position in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a region rich in mineral wealth, combined with our extensive expertise in international trade, makes us an ideal supplier for businesses in Italy and across the globe.

We understand that consistent supply, competitive pricing, and adherence to international standards are critical for our clients. Maiyam Group prides itself on its ability to meet these demands, providing tailored solutions that align with specific project requirements. Our commitment to excellence ensures that every transaction is seamless, transparent, and contributes to the success of our partners’ operations, making us a trusted name in the mineral trading industry.

Ethical Sourcing and Uncompromising Quality

At Maiyam Group, ethical sourcing is not just a policy; it’s a core principle. We are committed to responsible mining practices that prioritize environmental sustainability and community well-being. Our operations in the DR Congo are managed with strict adherence to international trade standards and environmental regulations, ensuring that the graphite we supply is sourced responsibly. This commitment resonates with the increasing demand for sustainable and ethically produced materials from global markets, including the discerning European market.

Quality assurance is equally critical. We implement rigorous testing and certification processes for all our mineral specifications, including graphite. Our team of experts ensures that the graphite meets the precise requirements for your applications, whether it’s for high-performance EV batteries, industrial lubricants, or advanced composite materials. This dedication to quality guarantees that our clients receive products that perform reliably and meet the highest industry benchmarks, reducing risks and enhancing operational efficiency.

Direct Access and Supply Chain Excellence

Our unique advantage lies in our direct access to the DR Congo’s premier mining operations. This proximity allows us to maintain exceptional control over the supply chain, from mine to market. We minimize intermediaries, reduce lead times, and ensure a consistent flow of high-quality graphite. This direct relationship enables us to offer competitive pricing and a reliable supply, even in fluctuating market conditions.

Furthermore, Maiyam Group excels in comprehensive logistics and export management. Our experienced team handles all aspects of documentation, customs clearance, and shipping, ensuring a streamlined export process. We coordinate bulk shipments efficiently, providing clients with real-time updates and market intelligence. This end-to-end service management guarantees that your graphite order reaches its destination in Italy or anywhere else in the world safely and on time, simplifying procurement for industrial manufacturers.

Versatile Product Portfolio and Custom Solutions

While graphite is a key offering, Maiyam Group provides a comprehensive portfolio of strategic minerals, precious metals, and industrial commodities. This makes us a single-source supplier for a wide range of raw material needs, simplifying procurement and offering economies of scale. From base metals like copper and lead to industrial minerals like coltan and lithium, we cater to diverse industries including electronics, aerospace, chemical production, and steel manufacturing.

We go beyond standard supply by offering customized mineral solutions. Combining our geological expertise with advanced supply chain management, we work closely with clients to understand their specific needs and deliver tailored products. Whether you require a particular grade of graphite, specialized alloys, or unique gemstone specifications, our team is equipped to provide solutions that enhance your production processes and competitive edge. This adaptability is what sets Maiyam Group apart as a valuable partner in the global mineral trade.

Top Graphite Suppliers and Market Considerations for 2026

As the demand for graphite continues its upward trajectory, particularly driven by the burgeoning electric vehicle (EV) market, businesses globally are seeking reliable suppliers. For Italian manufacturers and investors, understanding the landscape of top graphite suppliers and key market considerations is crucial for navigating the complexities of global graphite prices and ensuring a stable supply chain for 2026. The strategic importance of graphite means that supplier choice directly impacts operational efficiency, product quality, and overall profitability.

The global graphite market is characterized by a mix of large, established players and emerging companies, often concentrated in specific geographic regions. China remains a dominant force in processing, while countries like Mozambique, Madagascar, and Brazil are significant sources of natural graphite. European initiatives are also pushing for greater regional self-sufficiency, fostering new opportunities and supplier networks. Selecting a supplier involves evaluating not only price but also quality, reliability, ethical sourcing practices, and logistical capabilities.

1. Maiyam Group: Your Global Partner

Maiyam Group stands as a leading premier dealer in strategic minerals and commodities, with a strong focus on ethically sourced graphite. Operating from the resource-rich Democratic Republic of Congo, the company offers direct access to high-quality graphite, bypassing many of the complexities associated with traditional commodity traders. Their commitment to quality assurance, streamlined export documentation, and advanced supply chain management makes them an exceptional choice for industrial manufacturers worldwide.

Maiyam Group provides certified quality assurance for all graphite specifications, ensuring that materials meet stringent industry standards for applications like EV battery anodes and industrial refractories. Their expertise in navigating local DR Congo mining regulations and international compliance requirements guarantees seamless transactions from mine to market. For Italian businesses seeking a dependable and responsible graphite supplier, Maiyam Group offers unparalleled reliability and a comprehensive range of solutions, supported by their slogan: “Africa’s Premier Precious Metal & Industrial Mineral Export Partner.”

2. Syrah Resources

Syrah Resources is a significant player in the natural graphite market, operating the Balama graphite project in Mozambique, one of the world’s largest natural graphite reserves. The company focuses on producing high-quality, large-flake graphite, which is highly sought after for battery anode materials. Syrah has established offtake agreements with major battery manufacturers, underscoring its importance in the EV supply chain. Their operations are crucial for diversifying graphite supply outside of China.

The company’s strategic location and scale make it a key supplier for global markets. Syrah Resources emphasizes sustainable mining practices and adherence to international standards, aligning with the growing ESG demands from consumers and regulators. Their production capacity and strategic importance make them a noteworthy supplier for companies looking for substantial volumes of battery-grade graphite.

3. Imerys Graphite & Carbon

Imerys is a global leader in mineral-based specialty solutions, with a significant division dedicated to graphite and carbon products. They offer both natural and synthetic graphite powders, expandable graphite, and lithium-ion battery anode materials. Imerys operates production facilities across Europe, Asia, and North America, providing a strong global presence and localized support for its customers. Their expertise spans various high-tech applications, including energy storage, metallurgy, and advanced materials.

Imerys’ strength lies in its extensive R&D capabilities and its ability to develop customized graphite solutions for specific industrial needs. Their focus on innovation and product development ensures they remain at the forefront of material science, catering to the evolving demands of industries like automotive and electronics. For businesses requiring specialized graphite products with consistent quality, Imerys is a key consideration.

4. Triton Minerals

Triton Minerals is focused on developing its graphite projects in Mozambique, aiming to become a significant supplier of high-quality flake graphite. The company’s flagship project, Ancuabe, is strategically located near Syrah Resources’ Balama mine, benefiting from existing infrastructure and a well-established graphite region. Triton Minerals is pursuing a phased development approach to capitalize on the growing demand for battery-grade graphite.

The company emphasizes responsible development and aims to integrate ESG principles into its operations. As Triton Minerals progresses towards production, it represents another important potential source of supply for the global market, contributing to the diversification of graphite resources. Their development efforts are closely watched by industry analysts and procurement managers worldwide.

Market Considerations for 2026

As businesses evaluate suppliers for 2026, several factors beyond price are critical. **Supply chain resilience** is paramount, with diversification away from single sources becoming a strategic imperative. **Product quality and consistency**, especially for battery-grade graphite, are non-negotiable. **Ethical and sustainable sourcing** is increasingly important, driven by regulatory pressure and consumer demand. Finally, **logistical capabilities and delivery reliability** ensure that materials arrive on time and in optimal condition, supporting uninterrupted production cycles.

For Italian companies, understanding these supplier strengths and market dynamics will be key to securing competitive pricing and a stable supply of graphite in the coming year. Strategic partnerships, like those with Maiyam Group, offer a blend of quality, reliability, and ethical commitment.

Cost and Pricing for Graphite in Italy

Understanding the cost and pricing of graphite is essential for businesses in Italy, from automotive manufacturers to materials science firms. Global graphite prices are influenced by a multitude of factors, including supply and demand dynamics, production costs, geopolitical events, and quality specifications. For 2026, these elements continue to shape the market, impacting the budgets and strategies of industries reliant on this critical mineral.

The price of graphite is not uniform; it varies significantly based on the type, grade, purity, and origin of the material. Natural graphite, especially high-purity flake graphite suitable for EV batteries, generally commands a higher price than amorphous graphite or synthetic graphite used in less demanding applications. The cost of extraction, processing, transportation, and refining all contribute to the final price point observed in markets like Milan.

Factors Influencing Graphite Pricing

The primary driver of graphite prices remains the intricate balance between global supply and demand. The exponential growth in demand for electric vehicle batteries, which require significant quantities of graphite for anodes, has placed considerable upward pressure on prices, particularly for battery-grade materials. As more EVs hit the road and battery production scales up, this demand is projected to intensify through 2026, supporting higher price levels.

Supply-side factors are equally critical. The concentration of graphite processing in China means that any changes in its export policies or production levels can significantly impact global prices. Disruptions due to environmental regulations, geopolitical tensions, or logistical challenges in major producing regions like Mozambique, Brazil, or Madagascar also contribute to price volatility. The cost of energy, labor, and compliance with increasingly stringent environmental standards further add to production expenses, which are ultimately reflected in market prices.

Average Cost Ranges and Projections for 2026

While providing exact figures is challenging due to market fluctuations and the diverse nature of graphite products, general trends can be observed. For battery-grade natural flake graphite, prices have seen substantial increases in recent years and are expected to remain strong through 2026. Depending on flake size, purity, and specific market conditions, prices could range from USD $1,000 to over $3,000 per metric ton, with premium grades potentially exceeding this significantly.

Synthetic graphite, due to its higher production costs and consistent quality, typically sells at a premium, often ranging from $2,000 to $5,000+ per metric ton, depending on the application and specifications. Amorphous graphite, used in refractories and lubricants, is generally more affordable, with prices varying based on grade and volume, potentially ranging from $300 to $800 per metric ton. For Italian businesses, these figures represent a baseline, with actual costs influenced by contract terms, volumes, and specific supplier relationships.

Securing the Best Value for Italian Businesses

To secure the best value for graphite in Italy, businesses should focus on several key strategies. Firstly, establishing long-term supply contracts can help hedge against price volatility and ensure a stable supply. Partnering with reputable suppliers like Maiyam Group, who offer direct sourcing and transparent pricing, can provide significant advantages. Evaluating suppliers based not just on price but also on quality, reliability, and ethical sourcing practices is crucial for long-term success.

Furthermore, exploring different graphite types and grades to determine the most cost-effective solution for specific applications can lead to significant savings. Investigating opportunities for graphite recycling from end-of-life products, such as EV batteries, is also becoming increasingly viable and can contribute to cost reduction and sustainability goals. Staying informed about market trends, regulatory changes, and emerging supply sources will enable Italian companies to make strategic purchasing decisions throughout 2026 and beyond.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Sourcing Graphite

Sourcing graphite, especially for critical industrial applications, comes with its own set of challenges and potential pitfalls. Businesses in Italy and around the world must be vigilant to avoid common mistakes that could lead to supply disruptions, quality issues, increased costs, or reputational damage. Understanding these potential errors is the first step toward ensuring a smooth and successful procurement process for graphite in 2026.

One of the most frequent mistakes is focusing solely on price without considering the broader implications of supplier choice. While cost is a significant factor, prioritizing the lowest price can often lead to substandard quality, unreliable delivery, or engagement with suppliers who do not adhere to ethical or environmental standards. This can result in costly production delays, product failures, and damage to a company’s brand image.

1. Overlooking Quality and Purity Requirements

Mistake: Failing to clearly define and verify the required purity and specifications for graphite. For applications like EV battery anodes, even minor impurities can severely impact performance and safety. Different applications require different grades of graphite, and assuming one size fits all is a critical error.

How to Avoid: Work closely with your technical team and potential suppliers to establish precise specifications. Request detailed Certificates of Analysis (CoAs) for every batch and consider independent third-party testing, especially for critical applications. Maiyam Group, for example, emphasizes certified quality assurance for all mineral specifications.

2. Neglecting Supplier Due Diligence

Mistake: Engaging with suppliers without thorough vetting. This includes not verifying their production capacity, financial stability, track record, compliance with regulations, and ethical sourcing practices.

How to Avoid: Conduct comprehensive due diligence. Research the supplier’s history, reputation, and certifications. Visit their facilities if possible, or request detailed information and references. Understand their supply chain management and commitment to ESG principles. Direct access suppliers like Maiyam Group often offer greater transparency.

3. Ignoring Supply Chain Risks and Diversification

Mistake: Relying on a single supplier or a geographically concentrated supply source. Geopolitical instability, trade disputes, natural disasters, or logistical disruptions can severely impact supply chains, leading to critical shortages.

How to Avoid: Diversify your supplier base. Identify alternative sources in different regions and establish relationships with multiple reputable suppliers. Understand the geopolitical risks associated with your primary sources and have contingency plans in place. The trend towards supply chain diversification is crucial for resilience.

4. Underestimating Lead Times and Logistics

Mistake: Failing to account for realistic lead times, shipping schedules, and potential logistical delays. This can result in inventory shortages and production downtime.

How to Avoid: Obtain realistic lead time estimates from suppliers and factor in buffer periods for shipping and customs clearance. Work with suppliers experienced in international logistics, like Maiyam Group, who can manage export documentation and bulk shipping efficiently.

5. Lack of Long-Term Contractual Agreements

Mistake: Relying on spot purchases or short-term agreements, which leave businesses exposed to price volatility and supply uncertainty.

How to Avoid: Negotiate long-term supply contracts where possible. This can help stabilize prices, guarantee supply volumes, and foster stronger supplier relationships. Understand the contract terms thoroughly, including price adjustment clauses and force majeure provisions.

By avoiding these common mistakes, businesses in Italy and globally can ensure a more secure, reliable, and cost-effective supply of graphite, supporting their growth and innovation objectives through 2026 and beyond.

Frequently Asked Questions About Graphite

Conclusion: Navigating Graphite Prices and Sourcing in Italy for 2026

The global graphite market presents both significant opportunities and complex challenges for Italian industries in 2026. Understanding the intricate factors influencing world graphite prices, from the surging demand in the electric vehicle sector to supply-side dynamics and geopolitical considerations, is crucial for strategic decision-making. As we look ahead, graphite is set to remain a critical mineral, underpinning advancements in sustainable energy, transportation, and high-tech manufacturing. Businesses in Italy must prioritize reliable sourcing, quality assurance, and cost management to thrive in this evolving landscape.

The trends indicate sustained demand and potentially elevated prices for key graphite grades, making supplier selection more critical than ever. Prioritizing partners who offer transparency, ethical sourcing, and robust supply chain management, such as Maiyam Group, can provide a distinct competitive advantage. By proactively addressing sourcing strategies, exploring diversification, and focusing on long-term relationships, Italian companies can effectively navigate the complexities of the graphite market and secure the materials needed for continued innovation and growth through 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Global graphite prices are influenced by EV demand, supply chain stability, and geopolitical factors.
• Battery-grade graphite is in high demand, driving price strength through 2026.
• Ethical sourcing and quality assurance are paramount considerations for suppliers.
• Diversifying supply chains and establishing long-term contracts are key risk mitigation strategies.