Steel Surge, Graphite Charge ⚙️📈

India has emerged as the strongest growth engine for global steel demand since 2021, with an expected 8% annual rise in 2024–25. Backed by massive infrastructure spending and industrial expansion, steel demand is projected to increase by ~70 MT by 2025 vs 2020 levels. With current production already crossing 161 MT and a long-term target of 300 MTPA capacity under the National Steel Policy, India is clearly entering a multi-year structural upcycle. Meanwhile, China’s demand is peaking and expected to decline, shifting global growth leadership toward India and other emerging economies. This transition is also accelerating the shift toward Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking, boosting long-term demand for graphite electrodes. However, risks remain, geopolitical tensions, trade barriers, raw material (needle coke) price volatility, and global overcapacity could pressure margins. Still, rising infrastructure investments, decarbonization trends, and supply chain realignment continue to support a strong outlook for both steel and graphite sectors.