For the Quarter Ending June 2025
North America
• Carnitine Price Index in North America increased steadily through Q2 2025, with a notable rise in June following a mild correction in May and moderate growth in April. The overall trend was shaped by tightening global supply and shifts in import dependency from Asian markets.
• In June, prices rose sharply amid reduced import volumes from China and growing demand from dietary supplement and pharmaceutical manufacturers in the United States. Limited inventories across major ports and extended lead times pushed buyers to secure material at higher offers.
• In May, prices experienced a slight decline as import arrivals remained sufficient to meet demand, and some buyers delayed procurement in hopes of lower prices amid temporary US-China tariff relief. However, this short-lived softness was constrained by underlying supply-side risks.
• In April, prices moved upward as restocking activity resumed after Q1 destocking cycles. Anticipation of global supply disruptions due to trade uncertainties led to precautionary buying across pharmaceutical and nutraceutical segments.
• Production Cost Trend for local blending and formulation remained elevated throughout the quarter due to persistent inflation in labor and energy inputs, keeping landed cost pressure intact for US buyers even when FOB prices fluctuated abroad.
• Demand Outlook in North America remained firm, with strong offtake from functional food, sports nutrition, and pharmaceutical industries. The US market showed signs of increasing reliance on imports due to limited domestic synthesis capabilities for high-purity Carnitine.
• Export competitiveness was marginally affected as a stronger Chinese Yuan in June reduced cost advantages for imports, prompting domestic distributors to re-evaluate sourcing strategies and seek long-term contracts.
• Inventory dynamics tightened significantly in June following the drawdown of stockpiles built during April and early May. Many US buyers accelerated procurement toward the end of Q2 to hedge against potential Q3 supply delays.
• Price Forecast for July indicates sustained upward pricing pressure across the US market, supported by low inventories, stable downstream demand, and uncertainty around trade flows from China and other key Asian suppliers.
Europe
• Carnitine Price Index in Europe trended upward across Q2 2025, with a modest rise in April, a temporary dip in May, and a sharp recovery in June, reflecting shifting procurement patterns and reliance on imports amid supply fluctuations from Asia.
• In April, prices edged higher as European buyers increased forward bookings in anticipation of tighter global supply following trade tensions between China and the United States. Steady demand from the pharmaceutical and sports nutrition sectors also supported positive sentiment.
• In May, prices softened slightly due to improved inventory levels across distributors and reduced short-term buying interest. The dip was further reinforced by cautious procurement behavior amid rising logistics costs and currency volatility.
• In June, prices rebounded sharply as tighter global supply conditions, particularly from China, coincided with reduced local stock availability and renewed procurement from nutraceutical and healthcare manufacturers.
• Production Cost Trend in Europe remained stable but was pressured by elevated energy and labor costs, prompting greater reliance on competitively priced imports from Asia despite freight challenges.
• Demand Outlook strengthened toward the end of Q2, with increased consumption in dietary supplements and pharmaceutical formulations, particularly in Germany, where innovation in health-focused products spurred procurement growth.
• Export competitiveness for intra-EU suppliers was impacted by a stronger Euro in May, reducing margins on exports to non-Eurozone markets. However, domestic consumption partially offset these pressures.
• Inventory dynamics saw gradual depletion in June after a buildup in May. Buyers in Germany and broader Europe resumed restocking as upstream supply tightness and longer lead times raised concerns about future availability.
• Price Forecast for July signals continued upward momentum in the European Carnitine market, particularly in Germany, supported by expectations of leaner import arrivals, stronger summer nutraceutical demand, and higher production lead times.
APAC
• Carnitine Price Index in China rose significantly across Q2 2025, with a sharp decline in May followed by a steep rebound in June, reflecting volatile market fundamentals influenced by shifting supply-demand balances and macroeconomic drivers.
• In June 2025, the Spot Price for L-Carnitine FOB Shanghai was assessed at USD 21,500/MT, representing a notable monthly increase, driven by supply constraints and robust demand both domestically and internationally.
• In April, prices increased by 1.79% amid front-loaded export activity in anticipation of potential US tariff hikes. Lower production due to slowing industrial activity and depleted inventories added upward pressure to pricing.
• In May, prices declined sharply by 4.53%, attributed to elevated inventory levels, weak downstream offtake from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors, and limited international buying interest, despite some temporary tariff relief.
• In June, prices rebounded strongly as seasonal production slowdowns curtailed output, while healthy domestic and export demand from key markets such as North America, Southeast Asia, and Europe tightened inventories and strengthened pricing.
• Production Cost Trend remained relatively stable across Q2 but declined marginally in May due to improved manufacturing efficiency, while slight increases in June were linked to reduced operational capacity and higher freight rates.
• Demand Outlook remained firm in April and June but softened in May. By June, renewed momentum from overseas buyers, enhanced domestic logistics, and consistent demand from nutraceuticals and pharma restored bullish sentiment in the market.
• Export competitiveness fluctuated during the quarter. While the April appreciation of the US Dollar aided exports, May and June saw depreciation of the Dollar against the Yuan, compressing export margins and prompting suppliers to increase prices to preserve profitability.
• Inventory dynamics played a crucial role: April saw depletion due to pre-tariff exports, May experienced stock buildup, and June marked tightening inventories as procurement surged and production waned.
• Price Forecast for July indicates a potential further increase in prices above the USD 21,500/MT level, supported by expected restocking demand, improved global trade sentiment, and anticipated continued production slowdowns during summer maintenance.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
The U.S. Carnitine market experienced fluctuating price movements throughout Q1 2025, influenced by supply chain disruptions, shifting demand patterns, and geopolitical factors. January saw a notable price uptick as U.S. importers moved to secure inventory ahead of anticipated trade policy changes, including the imposition of a 10% tariff on Chinese imports set to take effect in February. The combination of proactive procurement, seasonal demand from the sports and nutrition sectors, and higher operational costs due to energy price increases created upward pressure on prices. Additionally, logistical bottlenecks on the West Coast, exacerbated by weather-related disruptions, led to extended shipping delays, further contributing to supply-side strain.
In February, the market saw continued price fluctuations, largely driven by the onset of the 10% tariff, which impacted procurement costs for Carnitine. This, combined with higher manufacturing costs in key supply regions, pushed landed prices higher. Although freight rates softened slightly, the sustained tightness in the supply chain, along with robust demand from both industrial and consumer segments, contributed to ongoing price pressure. The tariff escalation, along with ongoing uncertainty in global trade, kept the market on edge, as buyers rushed to secure stock before further price hikes.
March brought further volatility, with prices adjusting due to fluctuating supply and demand dynamics. A tightening supply from major suppliers in Asia, paired with rising production costs, continued to influence pricing. Despite some relief from lower logistics charges, the persistent increase in raw material costs and steady demand from nutritional and pharmaceutical sectors led to a balancing of the market. Buyers remained cautious, focusing on inventory management strategies to mitigate the risks of further price shifts. As a result, the U.S. Carnitine market ended Q1 2025 with fluctuating price trends, reflecting the continued influence of external factors such as trade policies, supply chain complexities, and shifting demand from key industries.
Asia Pacific
In Q1 2025, the Chinese Carnitine market experienced a significant price trajectory driven by supply constraints, steady demand, and shifting trade dynamics. January began with a marked price increase due to a combination of factors, including a surge in demand from the nutraceutical and healthcare sectors. The seasonal dip in production before the Lunar New Year and reduced manufacturing output due to worker migrations created supply shortages. To mitigate potential shortages, distributors and manufacturers placed advance orders, tightening supply further and contributing to the price hike. Additionally, the anticipation of U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods sparked an export rush, tightening domestic availability and further bolstering market prices.
February saw a moderate price increase, driven by supply delays due to the extended Lunar New Year holidays, which slowed manufacturing activities. Pre-holiday inventory depletion, combined with a gradual return to production, led to a supply-demand imbalance that further strained market conditions. Despite these disruptions, steady demand from healthcare and dietary supplement industries, coupled with reduced port congestion, allowed market prices to remain elevated. The looming possibility of additional U.S. tariffs also motivated foreign buyers to increase orders, reinforcing demand and keeping prices on an upward trajectory.
In March, Carnitine prices rose notably as the supply chain struggled to keep up with the front-loaded demand. While manufacturing activity showed signs of recovery, the surge in procurement orders exacerbated supply shortages. China’s fiscal stimulus measures and proactive restocking ahead of scheduled maintenance fueled robust domestic and international demand. This combination of constrained supply, export focus, and strong downstream consumption from nutraceutical and healthcare sectors further tightened market conditions, contributing to higher prices.
The market sentiment throughout the quarter remained bullish, with price increases supported by steady demand in key end-use sectors, strategic stockpiling, and ongoing trade uncertainties.
Europe
During Q1 2025, the German Carnitine market experienced fluctuating price movements, influenced by a mix of supply-side factors, fluctuating demand, and external economic conditions. January began with a slight uptick in prices, driven by stable demand from the nutraceutical and pharmaceutical sectors. The market was also affected by seasonal purchasing patterns, with early demand for sports and weight management products in the European market. However, logistics disruptions from the Red Sea and container shortages led to extended delivery times, placing some strain on supply chains and contributing to a modest price shift.
February saw continued price fluctuations as supply chain challenges persisted. Despite some relief from logistics bottlenecks, higher manufacturing costs in key sourcing regions, including China, placed upward pressure on prices. The depreciation of the euro against the U.S. dollar further contributed to higher import costs. At the same time, demand remained strong, particularly from the dietary supplement and health sectors, which supported ongoing price volatility. The reduction in freight rates did little to offset the broader inflationary pressures caused by rising raw material prices.
In March, prices fluctuated again as both supply and demand dynamics remained in flux. The tightening supply from key Asian suppliers, combined with rising production costs, added upward pressure on prices. However, softening demand in certain consumer segments and a slight cooling in industrial activity tempered the price momentum. The German market also faced currency volatility, which further complicated procurement strategies. As a result, while the market remained somewhat buoyed by steady consumption from health-focused industries, price fluctuations continued as both supply-side constraints and market sentiment influenced the trajectory.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In Q4 2024, Carnitine prices in the USA experienced a steady decline, influenced by economic uncertainty, reduced demand, and shifting market dynamics. October’s price drop was mainly due to inflation concerns, a dip in consumer confidence, and cautious business practices as market participants anticipated potential economic shifts.
In November, the stronger US dollar, more affordable imports, and easing logistical challenges helped stabilize supply chains. These factors, combined with well-stocked inventories, allowed suppliers to offer more competitive pricing, further fueling the downward trend. By December, the decline continued as consumer confidence waned, holiday-season demand softened, and rising inflation stoked caution in the market. Suppliers, mindful of potential strikes and tariff uncertainties, proactively built inventory to ensure a steady supply, which contributed to downward pressure on prices. In response, suppliers adjusted pricing to stay competitive, sustaining the price reduction throughout the quarter.
Overall, Q4 2024 was defined by persistent price declines for Carnitine in the USA, driven by cautious market sentiment, economic uncertainty, and favorable supply conditions that allowed suppliers to offer lower, more competitive prices.
Asia Pacific
In Q4 2024, Carnitine prices in China experienced a consistent decline, driven by a combination of domestic and international factors. In October, tepid domestic consumer demand and oversupply led to intense competition among suppliers, pushing prices down. Global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly concerns about the U.S. elections and protectionist policies, dampened export demand, further contributing to the price drop. By November, weak domestic demand from the nutraceutical sector and high distributor inventories exacerbated the situation, while international demand remained subdued due to concerns over tariffs and global economic uncertainties. Falling crude oil prices also allowed manufacturers to reduce costs, contributing to lower prices. In December, ongoing disinflation and reduced purchasing from downstream sectors, coupled with softened foreign orders due to the holiday season, left suppliers with excess inventory. To clear stock before year-end, suppliers further lowered prices, solidifying the overall downward trend in Carnitine prices for the quarter. This combination of factors resulted in a competitive market environment, with prices continuing to decrease throughout Q4 2024.
Europe
In Q4 2024, Carnitine prices in Europe experienced a steady decline, shaped by various economic factors. In October, inflation concerns led to cautious consumer spending, contributing to a soft market environment. A significant drop in shipping container prices further added to the pressure, ensuring supply levels remained adequate. Businesses adapted their logistics strategies to stabilize prices despite the weakened demand. The downward trend persisted into November, with weak demand from end-sectors and fading inflation worries. A reduction in energy prices added additional pressure, as did weak retail performance and a marked decline in consumer spending in Germany, all of which compounded the pricing pressures. By December, the combination of hesitant buyers, a weakened euro, abundant inventories, and adverse weather conditions helped maintain the downward trajectory. Reduced purchasing activity, logistical challenges, and lingering inflation concerns kept the market subdued. Suppliers focused on clearing excess stock before the new year, further reinforcing the price decline. Overall, Q4 was characterized by a cautious, price-sensitive market, with significant downward pressure on Carnitine prices.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, Carnitine prices in North America exhibited a dynamic trend, shaped by a variety of sector-specific factors. The U.S. market, in particular, experienced significant price fluctuations, resulting in an unpredictable pricing landscape throughout the quarter.
At the beginning of the quarter, prices declined, primarily due to stabilizing inflation rates that had previously surged above 9% but began to normalize. This easing of inflation allowed businesses to lower their overhead costs, providing the opportunity to reduce Carnitine prices for consumers. However, as the quarter progressed, prices reversed direction and began to rise, driven by both economic and logistical factors. Consumer confidence reached a six-month high, fueled by a more optimistic outlook regarding inflation and the economy, even amid ongoing concerns about the labor market. This renewed consumer sentiment translated into increased demand for Carnitine, further pushing prices upward.
To prepare for the anticipated rise in demand and potential supply chain disruptions, market participants proactively increased their inventory levels. In summary, Carnitine pricing in North America during Q3 2024 experienced an initial decline followed by a subsequent increase, reflecting the intricate interplay of economic conditions, consumer sentiment, and supply chain dynamics.
APAC
Throughout Q3 2024, the APAC region experienced a varied trend in Carnitine prices, influenced by a complex array of factors. Initially, prices declined due to a combination of interconnected elements. The manufacturing sector across Asia faced a period of subdued activity, primarily due to weak demand from both local and global markets. This reduced demand led to a slowdown in production operations, creating an oversupply of Carnitine and applying downward pressure on prices. However, in August and September, prices began to rise as new orders gradually recovered, particularly from international markets, which stimulated increased demand for intermediate goods. The region also saw a strengthening export market, supported by a significant rise in overseas demand for Carnitine. Nevertheless, challenges persisted, including uncertainty surrounding tariffs and supply chain disruptions caused by extreme weather events. Despite these hurdles, the early arrival of the peak season provided some temporary relief, with sustained high demand and ongoing supply chain congestion contributing to elevated prices. By the end of the quarter, L-Carnitine prices FOB Shanghai reached USD 21,660 per metric ton.
Europe
In the third quarter of 2024, the Carnitine pricing landscape in Europe displayed a mixed trend, shaped by a range of influencing factors. Initially, prices declined due to weaker-than-expected demand in the German market. This prompted market participants to adopt a cautious approach, focusing on maintaining significant inventory levels to satisfy current consumption needs. As the quarter progressed, however, prices began to rise. This shift was driven by robust demand from end-user industries and strategic inventory management practices adopted by companies preparing for potential disruptions. Favorable macroeconomic conditions also contributed to this upward trend. Complicating the situation was the ongoing conflict in the Red Sea, which disrupted global maritime traffic and resulted in logistical challenges, ultimately constraining the supply of Carnitine. These supply limitations placed upward pressure on prices as market dynamics evolved. Furthermore, improvements in consumer sentiment, particularly in Germany, played a crucial role in revitalizing demand and fostering a more optimistic outlook for the market. Despite the challenges, companies actively sought to enhance their stockpiles in anticipation of shipping delays, further reinforcing the upward price trajectory throughout the quarter.
FAQ’s
1. What is the current price of Carnitine in China?
As of June 2025, the spot price of L-Carnitine in China was assessed at USD 21,500/MT FOB Shanghai, reflecting a sharp increase due to tightening inventories, reduced output, and strong domestic and overseas demand.
2. Why did Carnitine prices increase in China during June 2025?
Prices surged due to seasonal production slowdowns, strong procurement activity, and a weaker US Dollar that compressed export margins. These combined factors led suppliers to raise prices to maintain profitability amid tightened availability.
3. How did the Carnitine market perform in Germany during Q2 2025?
In Germany, prices showed a mild rise in April, dipped slightly in May due to cautious buying and better inventory levels, and rose sharply in June due to tight global supply and renewed demand from pharmaceutical and nutraceutical sectors.
4. What was the demand outlook for Carnitine in the US market during Q2 2025?
Demand remained strong throughout the quarter, especially in June, driven by consistent consumption in sports nutrition and pharmaceuticals. Limited import arrivals and reduced domestic stocks further pushed buyers to secure cargoes at higher prices.
5. What are the key factors expected to influence Carnitine prices in July 2025 across major regions?
In China, continued restocking and reduced output are expected to support higher prices. In Europe, especially Germany, lean import availability and strong summer demand may drive further increases. In the US, low inventories, extended lead times, and stable downstream demand are anticipated to sustain upward pricing momentum.
