Sou Hu Cai Jing·2026-01-08 22:24Core Insights - In 2024, the global carbon fiber market experienced a significant collapse, with prices dropping dramatically in China, transforming what was once a highly valued material into a commodity [1][19] - This shift represents not just a price drop but a strategic breakthrough for Chinese manufacturing, effectively dismantling Western technological dominance in the sector [1][25] Industry Overview - Carbon fiber, once considered a "black gold" and a strategic material controlled by Western giants like Toray and Hexcel, has seen its production and pricing dynamics radically altered by Chinese manufacturers [3][5] - Historically, carbon fiber was essential for advanced aerospace applications, with its strength-to-weight ratio making it a critical material for military and commercial aircraft [3][10] Market Dynamics - The production of carbon fiber in China has surged from a mere 450 tons in 2010 to 150,000 tons in 2024, capturing 48.6% of the global market share [7][17][24] - The price of T300 carbon fiber has plummeted from over 100 yuan per kilogram at the beginning of 2023 to 72 yuan by the end of the year, making it comparable to the price of pork [19][21] Competitive Landscape - Chinese companies like Guangwei and Jilin Chemical Fiber have innovated in production techniques, enabling them to produce high-quality carbon fiber and raw materials, thus breaking the Western monopoly [12][15][17] - The rapid increase in production capacity has led to a significant reduction in prices, challenging the previously high margins enjoyed by Western firms [24][25] Future Outlook - The shift in carbon fiber pricing and production capabilities indicates a strategic repositioning for China, allowing for broader applications in industries such as wind energy and consumer goods [22][26] - While Western companies still hold some advanced technology in the highest grades of carbon fiber, the loss of the T300 and T700 markets suggests a looming threat to their dominance [26][28]