Pitch coke originates from the carbonization of coal tar pitch, a byproduct of coal coking, whereas petroleum coke is a residue of crude oil refining. The distinction matters for SITC and HTS classification: pitch coke falls under coal-derived carbon products, while petroleum coke is classified under petroleum residues. Importers should document the feedstock origin to support correct classification.

The primary end-use is electrode manufacturing — particularly graphite electrodes and anodes for electric arc furnaces and aluminum smelting. Refractory and specialty carbon product manufacturers also consume pitch coke. Because these industries require tightly controlled carbon purity, buyers typically specify fixed carbon content, sulfur levels, and volatile matter in purchase contracts.