Queensland Launches Graphite-to-Anode Plant with U.S. Support, Boosting Global Supply
Australia's first vertically integrated graphite-to-anode demonstration facility has commenced operations in Townsville, Queensland. The facility, operated by Graphinex, processes graphite from the Esmeralda project to produce battery-grade material for international markets. This development is part of a broader expansion in global graphite supply, with projections indicating a 25.1% increase in natural graphite production by 2026. The project received significant backing from the Export-Import Bank of the United States (EXIM), which provided a $1.3 billion Letter of Interest, marking the largest single commitment under the US-Australia Critical Minerals Framework. The Queensland Government has designated the project as a Prescribed Project to streamline approvals and support investment, creating over 200 jobs. 
