POSCO Future M has approved an investment of approximately KRW 357 billion to construct an overseas plant for artificial graphite anode materials in Thai Nguyen, northern Vietnam. The board signed off on the project on March 5, with construction slated to begin in the second half of 2026 and commercial production targeted for 2028. The site is designed to support up to 55,000 metric tons of annual capacity, with phased expansions planned as new orders are secured.
Artificial graphite anode material plays a critical role in enhancing fast-charging capability and extending the cycle life of lithium-ion batteries. With global demand rising and trade regulations tightening under policies such as the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act and Europe’s Critical Raw Materials Act, diversifying the supply base for key battery components has become an urgent priority. POSCO Future M’s move into Vietnam aims to stabilize its supply chain and bolster its competitiveness in international markets.
The company currently operates an 8,000-ton annual artificial graphite plant in Pohang, South Korea. Leveraging the manufacturing know-how developed there, POSCO Future M plans to deliver cost-competitive products from its new Vietnam facility to customers worldwide. Vietnam offers a favorable cost structure—including lower investment, electricity, labor, and logistics expenses—alongside a robust industrial infrastructure and trade agreements that facilitate exports to major markets such as the United States.
Since localizing natural graphite anode production in 2011 and commissioning its domestic artificial graphite plant in 2021, POSCO Future M has pursued full vertical integration across its anode material supply chain. The company also continues to advance its silicon anode technology and maintain a diverse product portfolio. It is currently in supply discussions with battery manufacturers and automakers in Korea, North America, and Europe for both cathode and anode materials.
By expanding production capacity overseas and driving process technology innovations, POSCO Future M aims to strengthen its global order book, enhance supply chain resilience, and emerge as a leading global battery materials supplier.
Source: POSCO Newsroom
