Zinc Powder Declined 5% WoW in April as US Market Extends Three-Month Bearish Run

Zinc powder prices in the US market extended a steady bearish trend in mid-April 2026, driven by easing cost pressures, ample imports, and subdued downstream demand. Early-month stability quickly faded as high inventory levels and consistent import arrivals from Asia ensured sufficient availability across the supply chain. Pharmaceutical and healthcare buyers maintained a cautious, hand-to-mouth procurement strategy, limiting fresh demand and discouraging longer-term purchasing commitments. The average pricing level for April settled lower compared to previous references, reflecting weaker negotiated outcomes, while weekly assessments showed accelerating declines through mid- and late-April. Prices moved from a brief early-month recovery into a sharper downward correction as sellers reduced offers to clear inventories amid competitive market conditions. Falling raw material costs further reduced production expenses, allowing secondary smelters and exporters to lower FOB quotations, which directly influenced CFR pricing in the US. Asian market softness also reinforced global downward pressure, as increased supply and reduced export values weighed on sentiment. Looking ahead, the market is expected to remain under pressure with further downside potential, unless supply tightness emerges or downstream demand strengthens significantly.