The green petroleum coke industry in China is undergoing significant transformation, driven by increasing environmental regulations and a global push for cleaner energy sources . Green petroleum coke (GPC) is the raw, unprocessed byproduct of the refining process and serves as the feedstock for calcined petroleum coke and as a fuel in various industries .

Environmental policies are reshaping the GPC market. In China, the focus on reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable practices is leading to stricter emission standards for industrial facilities . This has led to a growing preference for lower-sulfur pet coke, a segment that is rapidly gaining traction . Low-sulfur GPC is critical for producing high-quality calcined coke for anodes and is increasingly in demand from the graphite electrode industry, which is essential for electric vehicle battery recycling .

The market dynamics are reflected in trade flows. In 2024, China was a major exporter of calcined petroleum coke, with significant volumes going to India, Australia, and the UAE . Meanwhile, imports of uncalcined petroleum coke remain vital, with Russia being the top import source, supplying 319,300 tonnes in August 2025 . This intricate trade network is influenced by tariffs and global refinery output .

The global green petroleum coke market is also evolving. Valued at USD 12.1 Billion in 2024, it is expected to grow to USD 17.5 Billion by 2031, driven by increasing demand for fuel-grade coke in cement and power generation, and by the need for cleaner fuel alternatives . In China, ongoing technological advancements in refining, such as delayed coking technology, are enhancing both the yield and quality of GPC, helping producers meet stringent specifications for industries like aluminum and cement .

For more information on the green petroleum coke segment, visit China Pet Coke Market Report.