POSCO Future M announced that it has agreed to supply natural graphite anodes for secondary batteries worth KRW 671 billion to an overseas automobile manufacturer. This move comes as global companies are seeking supply chains outside of China, which has recently tightened its control over graphite exports.

On the 14th, POSCO Future M disclosed that it has signed a contract to supply natural graphite anodes to an overseas automobile manufacturer from 2027 to 2031. The identity of the contracting company has not been disclosed due to confidentiality agreements. Anodes are a critical material that determines the charging speed and lifespan of electric vehicle batteries.

The contract is seen as benefiting from the global trend of 'de-China' strategies. Previously, Chinese companies held an 80-90% market share in the anode market. However, on the 9th, the Chinese government strengthened its export controls on rare earth-related technologies, including artificial graphite anodes. Starting next month, exporting these materials will require approval from the Chinese Ministry of Commerce.

This contract marks the largest natural graphite anode deal in POSCO Future M's history, accounting for 18.1% of the company's sales last year. POSCO Future M stated that the supply period could be extended through future negotiations. The contract is expected to accelerate the construction of a graphite processing plant that POSCO Future M is building in Saemangeum, North Jeolla Province.

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