Tungsten carbide powder: market demand is higher, actual demand is still weak

Abstract Recently, the continued high prices in the raw material market have significantly impacted the tungsten industry. As of now, the mainstream price for 65-degree wolframite has reached 13.2–13.5 yuan per ton, while APT (Ammonium Paratungstate) is quoted at 19.2–19.5 yuan per ton in the main market. Rising production costs for tungsten powder have further pushed up the prices of tungsten-related products. However, despite these price increases, market demand remains weak. According to Fubao, downstream cemented carbide companies are operating at low capacity, and end-user consumption is insufficient, leading to a sluggish overall market environment. The current mainstream price for tungsten powder is around 296–298 yuan per kilogram, while the price range for tungsten carbide stands at 293–295 yuan per kilogram. Industry observers suggest that although prices are rising, the lack of strong demand may limit further upward movement in the short term. This situation highlights the growing challenge for manufacturers to balance cost pressures with market realities.