For the Quarter Ending June 2025
North America
• The Aluminosilicate Price in North America increased by 2.2% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, as reflected in a stronger Price Index.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend moved higher due to rising operational expenses, tariff-induced input cost inflation, and growing logistics disruptions.
• Domestic supply remained tight, influenced by cautious inventory strategies and increased export interest, even as broader manufacturing activity showed signs of stagnation.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook remained uneven, with moderate activity from refractories and ceramics, while the construction sector underperformed due to high project costs and delayed starts.
Why did the price of Aluminosilicate change in July 2025 in North America?
• Aluminosilicate Spot Prices increased in July 2025, driven by persistent supply constraints and elevated input costs, even as demand fundamentals stayed soft.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend continued upward due to inflationary pressure on labor and raw materials, and the impact of new U.S.–China tariffs.
• The Aluminosilicate Price Forecast remained firm as steady downstream demand from ceramics and infrastructure insulation offset weak procurement from residential and commercial construction.
APAC
• The Aluminosilicate Spot Price in Japan rose by 5.4% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, as shown by the upward movement in the Price Index.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend moved higher due to elevated freight rates, constrained Chinese exports, and increased raw material and energy expenses.
• Imports from China remained limited as producers maintained tight supply, while Japan faced higher landed costs, tightening local inventories.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook remained stable, supported by consistent consumption from construction, ceramics, and refractory applications despite weak residential sector performance.
Why did the price of Aluminosilicate change in July 2025 in Asia?
• In July 2025, the Aluminosilicate Spot Price in Japan continued its upward trajectory due to constrained supply and sustained import challenges from China.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend remained elevated amid persistent high logistics expenses and cautious production in China.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook was steady, supported by commercial infrastructure development and industrial insulation needs.
• The Aluminosilicate Price Forecast indicates a firm market outlook, with tight availability and steady downstream demand likely to support stability to rising price levels.
Europe
• The Aluminosilicate Spot Price in Europe rose by 3.5% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, as reflected in the climbing Price Index despite broader deflation in EU industrial prices.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend remained elevated due to localized logistical bottlenecks at ports like Rotterdam and Hamburg, persistent global freight delays, and constrained imports from Asia.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook stayed moderate, supported by stable civil infrastructure activity, though demand from residential construction remained weak amid tight financing and subdued new project initiations.
• Improved German manufacturing output and strong building materials sales helped partially offset sluggish housing activity, keeping aluminosilicate consumption relatively steady and sustaining upward price momentum.
Why did the price of Aluminosilicate change in July 2025 in Europe?
• In July 2025, the Aluminosilicate Spot Price in Europe remained firm as limited supply and improved commercial construction demand upheld pricing, despite ongoing weakness in residential housing.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend stayed high due to unresolved port congestion, rail delays, and reduced freight fluidity across Northern Europe.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook was steady, backed by marginal gains in civil engineering and industrial insulation applications.
• The Aluminosilicate Price Forecast indicates a stable to firm pricing trajectory in the near term, contingent on infrastructure-driven demand and persistent logistics constraints.
MEA
• The Aluminosilicate Spot Price in South Africa fell by 1.9% quarter-over-quarter in Q2 2025, as indicated by the declining Price Index amidst a fluctuating supply-demand landscape.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend eased slightly due to reduced inflation and stable input costs, though port congestion in Cape Town continued to pose logistical challenges.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook remained firm in non-residential construction and ceramics sectors, but was constrained by weak residential activity, funding delays, and skilled labor shortages.
• Government-backed infrastructure and renewable energy projects supported consistent offtake, yet slow project execution and subdued civil tender activity limited broader consumption growth.
Why did the price of Aluminosilicate change in July 2025 in MEA?
• In July 2025, the Aluminosilicate Spot Price in South Africa likely remained soft, driven by weak demand in the residential construction sector and sufficient regional availability.
• The Aluminosilicate Production Cost Trend remained steady, supported by improved inflation conditions and manageable input costs, despite ongoing port-related inefficiencies.
• The Aluminosilicate Demand Outlook was cautious, as subdued project execution and slow civil tender awards offset demand from industrial and non-residential sectors.
• The Aluminosilicate Price Forecast points to a mildly bearish outlook unless new infrastructure awards and execution ramp up meaningfully to drive consumption.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
In Q1 2025, the U.S. aluminosilicate market showed a mixed trajectory shaped by steady demand and evolving policy challenges. Prices increased in January and February due to tight supply conditions, robust demand from downstream sectors like construction, ceramics, and glass, and the impact of tariffs on key imports.
Severe weather, pre-Lunar New Year congestion, and trade disruptions strained supply chains, contributing to upward price pressure early in the quarter. Contractors stockpiled materials in anticipation of tariff deadlines, temporarily boosting demand and input costs. Despite inflationary concerns and rising borrowing costs, infrastructure investments and consistent manufacturing activity-maintained market stability.
By March, prices held firm as the domestic supply stabilized, and demand remained steady. The construction sector saw signs of modest recovery, particularly in residential projects, supporting a balanced market outlook. However, rising tariffs and policy-related uncertainties continued to weigh on sentiment. Over the quarter, despite price gains in the initial months, aluminosilicate prices declined by 4% compared to Q4 2024. By the end of March 2025, FOB Texas (USA) prices for Sodium Aluminosilicate remained stable, signaling cautious optimism among market participants facing ongoing cost and policy pressures.
APAC
In Q1 2025, the APAC aluminosilicate market remained volatile, shaped by fluctuating demand and regional supply imbalances. January witnessed a steep 9.8% price drop due to weak industrial activity and sluggish consumption across ceramics, glass, and construction sectors. Despite stable imports and declining freight rates cushioning supply pressures, soft demand prevailed. February saw a brief rebound as prices rose on stronger downstream activity and increased construction orders, supported by modest public investment and a slight recovery in Japan’s housing sector. However, March marked another downturn, with prices falling due to ample low-cost Chinese imports and weak manufacturing output. Regional shipping rates remained favorable, keeping logistics costs in check, and ensuring steady supply inflows. Yet, broader industrial contraction and mixed construction performance curtailed procurement activity. Overall, the market declined 14% compared to Q4 2024, reflecting persistent caution across key industries and the impact of global trade shifts. By March 2025, Sodium Aluminosilicate CFR Tokyo (Japan) prices were down 1.8% quarter-end, highlighting the market’s fragile recovery trajectory amid surplus supply and lukewarm demand. Market players continue to navigate challenges including cost volatility, policy uncertainty, and unpredictable sectoral growth.
Europe
In Q1 2025, the aluminosilicate market in Europe, especially Germany, experienced steady price growth amid supply shortages and cautious demand recovery. January began with a price increase, driven by tight supply due to low production, adverse weather, and rising import costs from a weaker euro. Despite sluggish demand from the ceramics and glass sectors, limited availability kept prices elevated. In February, prices rose as manufacturing output remained low and inflation pressures persisted. Political uncertainty in Germany and global trade concerns dampened consumer confidence, yet construction-related demand was supported by EU-backed infrastructure projects. By March, the market saw a price surge, fueled by signs of stabilization in Germany’s construction and manufacturing sectors. Fewer order cancellations and improved contractor sentiment pointed to a mild rebound in building activity, reinforcing demand for aluminosilicate. While demand growth remains moderate, constrained supply and ongoing cost pressures have kept the market firm. By quarter-end, Sodium Aluminosilicate FD Hamburg (Germany) recorded a 3.8% increase in March 2025, reflecting a stable but upward pricing trend compared to Q4 2024, amid ongoing supply and inflation challenges.
MEA
In Q1 2025, the aluminosilicate market in the MEA region showed a fluctuating trend. In South Africa, January witnessed a price drop due to weak demand, high inventory levels, and subdued activity in construction and ceramics sectors. Efficient port operations maintained stable supply, but inflationary pressures and elevated borrowing costs limited growth. February marked a shift, with prices rising amid steady demand and constrained supply caused by renewed load shedding and rising energy and logistics costs. The construction sector showed resilience, but challenges like delayed payments and financial instability persisted. In March, prices climbed, supported by steady demand and tightening supply conditions. Severe port congestion at Cape Town and Durban due to adverse weather and equipment failures further strained logistics and added cost pressures. Despite gains in February and March, the earlier dip in January resulted in an overall Q1 price decline of 2% compared to Q4 2024. The market remained under pressure from economic uncertainty and structural inefficiencies. By March-end, Sodium Aluminosilicate FOB Durban (South Africa) saw a 0.8% monthly increase but an overall quarterly downward trend.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In Q4 2024, the U.S. Aluminosilicate market experienced a notable decline, influenced by weak domestic demand and a sluggish construction sector. The tight lending environment, coupled with reduced commercial property values and rising interest rates, contributed to the downturn. Despite a modest recovery in the residential construction sector, challenges such as labor shortages, high material costs, and limited land availability remained significant barriers.
Additionally, geopolitical uncertainties, particularly surrounding the U.S. Presidential Election and potential tariffs, further suppressed demand. The market also faced logistical issues, including port congestion and labor unrest, exacerbating supply chain disruptions. These factors, combined with abundant supply and declining consumption across key industries like ceramics, glass, and construction, placed downward pressure on prices.
By December, weak demand persisted, particularly due to seasonal slowdowns and economic challenges in the construction sector. As a result, Aluminosilicate prices fell significantly, reflecting ongoing market challenges. The market saw a quarter-over-quarter decline of 6%, and by the end of December 2024, Aluminosilicate FOB Texas (USA) prices had dropped to USD 1060/MT, underscoring the continuous negative trend throughout the quarter.
APAC
In Q4 2024, the APAC region saw a notable decline in Aluminosilicate prices, primarily driven by weak demand and oversupply across key markets. Economic uncertainties and reduced investment in the construction sector led to lower domestic consumption, while exports weakened due to slowing demand from Europe and North America. The seasonal slowdown, especially in the cement sector, resulted in oversupply, putting additional pressure on prices. Logistical disruptions, including ongoing port congestion, further strained supply chains, and contributed to market imbalances. Key industries such as ceramics and glass, which are major consumers of Aluminosilicate, scaled back production due to high energy costs and a decline in export orders. Overall, the region experienced a sharp 13% price drop compared to the previous quarter, with Japan seeing the most significant decline. By December, Aluminosilicate prices continued to face downward pressure, fueled by weak demand, excess supply, and market uncertainties. Prices for Aluminosilicate CFR Tokyo (Japan) fell to USD 610/MT by December 2024, reflecting the prevailing bearish sentiment across the Asian market.
Europe
In Q4 2024, the European Aluminosilicate market saw a notable decline in prices, driven by weak demand from key industries such as construction, ceramics, and glass. Geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and ongoing port congestion further strained the market. High interest rates, rising energy and labor costs, and reduced investment in new projects added additional pressure. Despite steady imports and efficient port operations ensuring ample product availability, low consumer confidence and cautious market behavior persisted throughout the quarter. Inflation in the Eurozone, which reached 2.4% in December, contributed to the subdued market sentiment and further limited consumption. Germany, a major market in the region, experienced the sharpest price declines, as prolonged economic challenges and reduced activity in residential, commercial, and civil engineering projects continued to impact demand. By the end of the quarter, Aluminosilicate prices in Europe had dropped by 15% compared to the previous quarter, with Aluminosilicate FD Hamburg (Germany) quoted at USD 620/MT. The combination of weak demand, economic uncertainty, and logistical difficulties underscored the fragility of the market, with participants navigating a difficult environment marked by cautious investment and declining consumption.
MEA
In Q4 2024, the Aluminosilicate market in South Africa faced a challenging environment marked by price declines, driven by oversupply and moderate demand. Adverse weather conditions, including heavy rains, floods, and strong winds, disrupted supply chains, and affected demand, while logistical issues at major ports such as Cape Town and Durban compounded the situation. Despite signs of economic growth, particularly in the private sector, the construction industry remained sluggish, leading to increased inventories and downward pressure on prices. Additionally, weak demand from export markets in Asia and Europe, where construction activities were also subdued, further exacerbated the market challenges. By November, continued oversupply and sluggish demand led to further price declines, while intermittent port delays and logistical inefficiencies worsened the situation. However, in December, supply constraints and moderate demand from the construction and ceramics sectors led to a slight price recovery. Despite this, the overall market remained weak, with prices showing a 10% decline from the previous quarter. By the end of Q4, Sodium Aluminosilicate prices FOB Durban (South Africa) stood at USD 670/MT, reflecting the ongoing negative trend in the market.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the North American Aluminosilicate market faced a notable downturn, with prices dropping by 4% compared to the previous quarter. This decline was driven by weakened demand from major sectors such as construction and ceramics, both of which were hit by persistent supply chain issues and logistical bottlenecks.
Ongoing port congestion, labor strikes, and the looming threat of hurricanes significantly dampened market sentiment, contributing to the bearish trend in prices. Additionally, plant shutdowns, including disruptions caused by Hurricane Beryl, further tightened supply, exacerbating the downward pressure on prices. Despite hopes for a recovery, demand remained sluggish, leaving domestic producers and traders grappling with unfavorable conditions.
By the end of September, Aluminosilicate FOB Texas (USA) prices had dropped by 3.3%, underscoring the continuous negative trend throughout the quarter. Overall, the pricing environment in North America for Aluminosilicate during Q3 2024 was largely unfavorable, shaped by weak demand and external factors such as weather-related disruptions, labor challenges, and supply chain inefficiencies that further strained the market.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the APAC region saw a notable decline in Aluminosilicate prices, driven by a combination of factors. Weak demand from key downstream sectors, particularly construction and ceramics, alongside persistent supply chain challenges such as port congestion and logistical disruptions, significantly contributed to the price drop. Overall, prices in the region fell by 4% compared to the previous quarter. Japan experienced the steepest decline, with Aluminosilicate prices plummeting by 7.4% in August, signaling a bearish market sentiment. The disruptions at major ports, coupled with subdued demand, further exacerbated the downward pressure on prices. Despite stable supply levels in some areas, the overall market trend remained negative. By the end of the quarter, prices for Aluminosilicate CFR Tokyo dropped by an additional 1.7%. Plant shutdowns during the quarter also added to supply constraints, reinforcing the ongoing decline in prices. These combined factors created a challenging market environment, with both supply and demand imbalances playing a central role in shaping the pricing dynamics throughout the APAC region during Q3 2024.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the European Aluminosilicate market saw a marked decline in prices, with Germany experiencing the most pronounced fluctuations. The downturn was driven primarily by weakened demand from key downstream industries such as construction and ceramics, which created a bearish market sentiment. Contributing to the price drop were factors like low industrial activity, an oversupply of products compared to demand, and persistent congestion at major ports. Additionally, rising shipping costs, ongoing geopolitical tensions, and sluggish overseas demand placed further pressure on pricing dynamics. By the end of the quarter, the price of Sodium Aluminosilicate FD Hamburg in Germany fell by 2.7%, representing an overall decrease of 8% from the previous quarter. Supply chain disruptions were also compounded by plant shutdowns, adding to the already negative market outlook. The overall market environment for Aluminosilicate in Europe during Q3 2024 was defined by these unfavorable conditions, with prices remaining on a downward trajectory due to the combination of supply-demand imbalances and external pressures.
MEA
Throughout Q3 2024, the Aluminosilicate market in the MEA region encountered a challenging environment marked by declining prices. A combination of factors contributed to this downturn, including reduced demand from vital downstream sectors such as ceramics and construction, along with an oversupply that exceeded consumption levels. In South Africa, which experienced the most significant price fluctuations, the Aluminosilicate market reflected the overall trend of price reductions. The prevailing conditions indicated a clear correlation between weakened demand, high supply levels, and limited consumer spending, all contributing to a negative pricing environment. Additionally, severe weather in both the western and eastern Cape regions, characterized by high waves and strong winds from a series of cold fronts, disrupted shipping routes. While Red Sea traffic remained stable, several containerships had to either turn back or wait off the coast of Durban. Heavy winds and cyclones impacted shipping routes, forcing vessels to seek shelter or alter their courses to navigate the adverse weather conditions near the Cape of Good Hope. Overall, the quarter recorded a 4% decrease in prices compared to the previous quarter. By the end of Q3, Sodium Aluminosilicate prices changed by 2% FOB Durban, indicating a persistent downward trajectory.
FAQs
1. What is the current price of Aluminosilicate?
The Aluminosilicate Spot Price varies by region. In Q2 2025, prices declined in Europe and South Africa, reflecting subdued demand and sufficient supply. For instance, South Africa recorded a 1.9% quarter-over-quarter decline in the Price Index during Q2 2025.
2. What are the key applications or end-use sectors of Aluminosilicate?
Aluminosilicate is primarily used in the construction and ceramics sectors, especially in non-residential building materials, refractory bricks, and specialty ceramics. Other applications include petrochemical processing units and thermal insulation in high-temperature environments.
3. Who are the top Aluminosilicate producers in each region?
Major producers vary by region. In Europe, key manufacturers include Imerys and Sibelco. In North America, U.S.-based suppliers such as BASF and Unifrax are prominent. South Africa features regional suppliers and importers servicing the domestic ceramics and infrastructure markets.
4. What is the expected price trend of Aluminosilicate in the next quarter?
The Aluminosilicate Price Forecast suggests continued price softness in regions like Europe and South Africa unless downstream demand—particularly in construction and ceramics—strengthens. Short-term outlooks remain cautious, with weak residential construction being a common constraint.
