Turkish petcoke imports uncompetitive compared to domestic producers

Turkish petcoke imports are uncompetitive due to lower prices being offered by domestic producers and high freight rates. The domestic price of petcoke in Turkey is approximately US$107-108/Mt, a lower price than imported petcoke once US$8-10 has been added to cover the added import costs, according to S&P Global Platts.

A S&P Global Platts assessment saw Supramax petcoke freight rates from Houston to Aliaga at US$21/Mt on Wednesday, a decrease of 25 cents when compared to the highest price of 2017, which was recorded in mid-December.

The prices are expected to fall once freight rates drop and buyers look to replenish stockpiles. The demand for petcoke could also increase once springtime construction begins. It is expected that the price will stay high for at least the next two months.