Melamine prices showed a mixed trend globally during early June 2025. In Asia, prices kept dropping due to soft demand, cheap feedstock and cautious procurement. However, Europe and the U.S. saw a slight increase, driven by expectations of supply tightening and preemptive restocking ahead of announced price hikes.

In China, melamine prices declined during early June, weighed down by weak feedstock support and continued sluggish demand. Feedstock Urea prices remained under pressure due to increased availability from new production units and low agricultural demand. This reduced cost supports melamine producers. Despite most plants returning to normal operations post-holiday, operating rates remained conservative to avoid overstocking.

China’s construction and housing-related activity stayed muted, keeping demand from the panel, laminate, and coating sectors low. Downstream buyers were reluctant to place large-volume orders, choosing only to replenish essential inventory. Overseas inquiries from South Asia and the Middle East were also limited amid subdued global demand and competitive international offers.

China’s factories and export orders slowed in May, hurting market confidence. Ongoing U.S. trade tensions added uncertainty. Local safety inspections limited melamine production in some areas, but the impact was small.

Melamine prices in South Korea declined as demand stayed weak across construction-adjacent industries. High construction costs and reduced returns discouraged new projects, causing delays in major developments like The Parkside Seoul and Jamsil LEEL. This affected downstream orders from laminate and board producers.

In India, melamine prices dropped due to sluggish demand and cheaper overseas offers. Importers preferred small-volume purchases, citing weak demand from board and laminate manufacturers.

Melamine prices in Europe edged up, supported by anticipated regional supply constraints. Maintenance activity at Grupa Azoty’s Polish plant and the planned shutdown of its Austrian unit limited supply. Although overall demand was weak, some buyers returned to the market for restocking amid concerns over availability. Construction activity remained slow, but short-term interest in inventory buildup supported pricing.

U.S. melamine prices edged up slightly after Cornerstone Chemical Company announced a price hike starting July 1, 2025. Some buyers moved to restock ahead of the hike. Feedstock urea costs held firm, supporting production margins. However, demand remained moderate due to continued housing affordability concerns and slow downstream offtake in laminates and coatings.

In Asia, melamine prices might stabilize or rise a bit as buyers gear up for typhoon season. Safety inspections could briefly cut supply. In Europe, selective restocking may support prices. In the U.S., the upcoming price hike might boost short-term buying, but the overall outlook remains cautious.