For the Quarter Ending June 2025
North America
• April 2025 Price Index for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride fell by 0.95%, with the Spot Price dropping due to elevated inventories and downstream buyers reducing orders to clear stock.
• A high tariff rate (145%) remained in place, but U.S. importers frontloaded shipments pre-April 2, leading to inventory buildup and reduced new procurement—lowering short-term demand and Price Index.
• Product Demand Outlook weakened in April as distributors paused purchases, anticipating future price clarity amidst trade uncertainty and sufficient existing supply.
• In May 2025, the Price Index rose by 1.35%, spurred by a 90-day tariff suspension, which prompted a surge in import volumes and freight bottlenecks, raising logistics and landed costs.
• Buyers rushed to secure inventory before the August tariff reimposition, contributing to an optimistic Product Demand Outlook and upward movement in the Spot Price.
• May also saw Peak Season Surcharges and increased shipping activity, driving short-term cost pressure and stimulating large-scale restocking activity.
• June 2025 Price Index declined sharply by 4.63%, with the Spot Price falling due to high stock levels from earlier procurement and weak seasonal booking trends.
• Lower pharmaceutical cargo demand, easing freight rates, and sluggish domestic demand contributed to the bearish Price Forecast for the end of Q2.
• Major buyers delayed purchases due to low business confidence and mid-year inventory liquidation, resulting in a softened Product Production Cost Trend and reduced pricing leverage.
• July 2025 Price Forecast indicates a modest price increase as restocking slows and suppliers prioritize margin recovery over discounts, creating localized supply tightness.
APAC
• April’s Price Index for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride dropped by 0.95%, with the Spot Price falling to CNY 520,000/MT due to weak demand and high inventory amid disrupted manufacturing and port congestion.
• Production Cost Trends remained stable, but factory activity contracted (PMI at 49.0), while outbound shipments were reduced due to U.S. tariff hikes, resulting in elevated unsold stocks.
• Demand Outlook was subdued as both domestic and international buyers delayed purchases; U.S. tariffs (145%) caused widespread order cancellations and reduced trade flows.
• In May, the Price Index increased by 1.35% to CNY 527,000/MT, driven by strong export demand during the temporary U.S. tariff pause, boosting shipping volumes.
• Limited freight capacity and rising spot container rates during May pushed prices up as U.S. and Southeast Asian buyers rushed to frontload inventories.
• The Spot Price declined sharply in June by 4.65% to CNY 502,500/MT amid global oversupply, falling logistics costs, and cautious buying sentiment.
• Despite steady production, overcapacity pressured sellers to reduce prices, especially as China's PPI fell by 3.6% YoY, weighing on Production Cost Trends.
• Export competition intensified in June, with buyers leveraging lower freight rates and deflation to negotiate down FOB offers.
• Demand Outlook weakened further in June, with Western buyers holding sufficient stocks and deferring new purchases amid trade policy uncertainty.
• In July 2025, a modest price increase is expected as some global buyers return to replenish inventory after June’s price correction, although supply pressure persists.
Europe
• In April 2025, the Price Index for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride in Germany declined by 0.95%, with the Spot Price dipping due to oversupply triggered by redirected U.S.-bound cargoes and low regional demand.
• The Product Demand Outlook remained muted as pharmaceutical buyers pre-stocked inventories before the early May Labour Day break, leading to bloated stocks and downward pressure on the Price Index.
• Port congestion in Hamburg and other European hubs delayed distribution, prompting buyers to hold off on new orders, further depressing April prices.
• In May, the Price Index rose by 1.35% amid escalating port congestion, tightening vessel space, and increased forward bookings driven by anticipated freight hikes.
• A rebound in procurement across healthcare and pharma sectors supported a strong Product Demand Outlook, while the reduced U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods diverted vessels from Europe, tightening regional supply.
• Carriers imposed congestion surcharges and rerouted shipments, raising landed costs and allowing suppliers to push Spot Prices higher in May.
• June saw a 4.64% decline in the Price Index, driven by cautious buying behavior, large inventory carryovers, and delayed Peak Season Surcharge (PSS) applications, all pointing to a softening market.
• Despite ongoing shipping congestion, the postponement of PSS kept freight stable, reducing urgency in restocking and prompting conservative import strategies.
• Buyers prioritized liquidation of existing stock, limiting short-term imports and dragging down the Spot Price, contributing to a temporary downtrend in the Product Price Forecast.
• In July 2025, the Price Index is likely to increase modestly as downstream buyers initiate inventory replenishment and carriers implement delayed PSS, driving up import costs and nudging the Product Production Cost Trend upward.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
In Q1 2025, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in the U.S. experienced notable fluctuations, influenced by a mix of tariff policies, logistical disruptions, and demand shifts. January saw moderate price increases as importers rushed to stockpile goods ahead of the 10% tariff on Chinese imports, effective February 1. Rising energy costs and the Chinese Lunar New Year, which began on January 29, further strained supply chains, driving up prices.
In February, the implementation of the tariff added pressure, with buyers accelerating procurement to avoid potential 25% tariffs on pharmaceuticals, exacerbating supply chain challenges and pushing prices higher. Despite these pressures, March saw a sharp price decline, driven by weak demand, oversupply, and growing uncertainties over trade policies. The weakening of the U.S. dollar and the looming threat of additional tariffs on pharmaceutical imports further dampened market sentiment. Distributors holding excess inventory reduced purchasing, leading to aggressive pricing strategies to clear stock.
Overall, Q1 2025 was marked by volatility, with prices rising early in the quarter before falling sharply due to oversupply and shifting market dynamics.
Asia Pacific
In Q1 2025, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in China trended upward, driven by supply-demand imbalances. In January, prices surged due to strong demand from pharmaceuticals and healthcare, compounded by reduced manufacturing output ahead of the Lunar New Year. Limited production capacity, coupled with stockpile depletion, created supply tightness, while advance orders and U.S. tariff concerns intensified the market’s bullish sentiment. In February, prices continued rising slightly, driven by limited supply due to post-holiday disruptions, including manufacturing slowdowns and port congestion. Demand remained steady, particularly in the healthcare sector, and a focus on international markets by Chinese manufacturers exacerbated domestic supply shortages. The expectation of additional U.S. tariffs also led to more foreign orders. By March, prices rose slightly as demand outpaced the gradual recovery in supply. Though production slowly resumed, inventory levels remained moderate, and foreign procurement intensified due to trade concerns. Domestic demand remained strong, bolstered by fiscal stimulus and restocking efforts. In summary, Q1 2025 saw rising prices due to tight supply, consistent demand, and concerns over trade restrictions.
Europe
In Q1 2025, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in Germany showed mixed trends. January saw a moderate price increase driven by improved business sentiment, boosted by a more favorable economic outlook. This optimism led to increased demand from the healthcare sector, especially as companies restocked inventory ahead of expected demand. The loosening of monetary policy also contributed to consumer confidence. In February, prices rose slightly due to ongoing supply chain challenges, including congestion at European ports and labor disputes, which raised shipping costs. Despite these disruptions, stable consumer spending and strong demand for allergic condition treatments supported the market. Additionally, political uncertainties and easing inflation led to further inventory stocking. By March, however, prices declined as supply conditions improved. A stronger Euro and lower ocean freight rates reduced import costs, while oversupply and subdued downstream demand, especially post-Lunar New Year, pressured prices downward. Buyers focused on clearing inventories, contributing to the price decline. Overall, Q1 saw an initial upward trend followed by a reversal, influenced by supply chain dynamics and fluctuating demand.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In Q4 2024, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in the USA exhibited considerable volatility, shaped by shifting market dynamics. October experienced a slight price increase, driven by heightened demand following Federal Reserve rate cuts, which boosted consumer confidence. However, ongoing supply chain disruptions, including port congestion, labor strikes, and concerns over potential tariff hikes under President-elect Donald Trump, added further strain to the supply-demand balance, driving prices higher.
By November, prices began to soften as demand slowed under the weight of inflationary pressures and high interest rates. A stronger U.S. dollar helped reduce import costs, while the resolution of the ILA strike eased logistical challenges. Coupled with ample inventories, these factors allowed suppliers to lower prices, providing some relief to consumers.
In December, prices continued their downward trajectory, driven by waning consumer confidence, slower seasonal demand, and proactive inventory building in anticipation of January strikes and the Chinese Lunar New Year. Inflation concerns and uncertainty surrounding tariffs led to more cautious purchasing, while abundant supply and competitive pricing strategies exerted additional downward pressure on prices. Overall, Q4 2024 was marked by a fluctuating yet declining trend for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices.
Asia Pacific
In Q4 2024, the Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride market in China experienced a fluctuating pricing trend, influenced by changing economic conditions and market dynamics. October saw a modest price increase, driven by a recovery in China’s manufacturing sector, supported by government stimulus measures. Rising domestic and export demand, alongside monetary easing and a weaker yuan, boosted consumer confidence, leading to higher external orders and allowing suppliers to raise prices.
However, by November, the upward trend reversed as high inventory levels, sluggish domestic demand, and weak international orders—particularly from the USA and Europe—resulted in an oversupply. Falling crude oil prices further reduced production costs, prompting manufacturers to lower prices to stay competitive.
In December, prices continued to decline as consumer demand remained weak amid ongoing disinflation in China. Shifts in procurement strategies by pharmaceutical companies and international buyers contributed to reduced demand, while lower foreign orders during the holiday season left suppliers with surplus inventory. This excess stock led to additional price cuts as manufacturers sought to clear their inventory before the year’s end. Overall, Q4 2024 saw a transition from early price increases to subsequent declines, driven by fluctuating demand and shifting market conditions.
Europe
In Q4 2024, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in Germany experienced a fluctuating trend throughout the quarter. October saw a slight increase in prices, driven by a more optimistic business sentiment fueled by expectations of economic recovery and the European Central Bank’s third interest rate cut to 3.25%. This monetary easing spurred spending and investment, while supply chain disruptions at Hamburg’s ports and proactive inventory stockpiling placed upward pressure on prices.
However, in November, the trend reversed as demand from end-sectors weakened and inflationary pressures eased, leading to price reductions. A significant decline in consumer spending and retail activity, combined with a 1.9% drop in energy costs, reduced production expenses, enabling suppliers to cut prices and remain competitive.
The downward trend continued into December, driven by ongoing subdued demand from key sectors, cautious purchasing behavior amidst lingering inflation concerns, and higher import costs due to the euro's depreciation. High inventory levels and year-end clearance efforts further contributed to the price decline, while severe winter conditions disrupted logistics and reduced consumer activity. Overall, Q4 reflected a shift from initial optimism to growing economic caution, resulting in a volatile yet declining pricing environment.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In the third quarter of 2024, the pricing of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride in North America experienced a consistent upward trajectory, influenced by various factors affecting market dynamics.
The increased demand for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride was primarily driven by heightened consumer confidence and a positive economic outlook, leading to a surge in orders and overall market activity. Concurrently, supply chain disruptions, such as port congestion and delays, further constrained the availability of the product, putting upward pressure on prices. Importers and retailers proactively stockpiled inventory to guard against potential shortages, which also contributed to rising costs. Significant disruptions during the quarter included blank sailings and adverse weather conditions that affected logistics. In the USA, the market saw the most pronounced price fluctuations, mirroring the broader trend across North America. The quarter recorded a notable 2% increase in prices compared to the previous quarter, with a 1% price difference observed between the first and second halves of Q3.
Despite these challenges, the overall pricing environment remained favorable, culminating in a quarter-ending price of USD 537,500 per metric ton for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride (USP, FDA) CFR Los Angeles. This figure underscores the complex interplay of demand dynamics and supply chain constraints impacting the market during this period.
Asia Pacific
In the third quarter of 2024, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in the APAC region experienced a notable uptrend, driven by several key factors. Robust demand from both domestic and international markets played a crucial role in driving prices higher. This surge in demand was fueled by increased inquiries from end-user industries and proactive stockpiling efforts by businesses in response to ongoing logistical uncertainties. These factors intensified the upward pressure on prices. Supply-side constraints also contributed significantly to the price surge. Production challenges and rising input costs further limited availability, making it difficult for suppliers to meet growing demand. China, in particular, saw the most pronounced price movements, reflecting the region's dynamic pricing environment. Despite a -2% decrease compared to the previous quarter, the overall pricing trend in Q3 showed a 1% increase between the first and second halves of the quarter, underscoring the bullish market sentiment. The quarter concluded with Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride (USP, FDA) priced at USD 513,000 per metric ton FOB Shanghai, highlighting the overall upward trajectory of the market, driven by a combination of strong demand, supply constraints, and positive market sentiment.
Europe
In Q3 2024, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices in the European region experienced a notable upward trend, with Germany showing the most pronounced fluctuations. Several factors contributed to the pricing shifts throughout the quarter. One major influence was the ongoing disruptions in global maritime traffic, particularly in vital shipping routes, which led to delays, shortages, and elevated shipping costs. These logistical challenges placed considerable strain on the supply chain, limiting the availability of Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride. Additionally, strong demand from end-user industries, combined with companies stockpiling inventory to hedge against extended lead times, further pushed prices upward. In Germany, the market saw the most significant price variations, driven by both supply chain disruptions and heightened demand. The impact of seasonality was also evident, with a 2% price difference between the first and second halves of the quarter. Although there was a slight price dip compared to the previous quarter, the overall market sentiment remained positive. By the end of Q3, Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride (USP, FDA) CFR Hamburg was priced at USD 530,400 per metric ton, reflecting a challenging pricing environment shaped by increasing trends and ongoing supply chain obstacles.
FAQs
1. Why did Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride prices fall in North America in April 2025?
Prices dropped due to elevated inventories from pre-April frontloading before the 145% tariff, causing buyers to reduce new orders and soften demand.
2. What caused the price increase in May 2025 in North America and APAC?
A temporary 90-day U.S. tariff suspension led to a surge in imports, freight bottlenecks, and frontloaded buying, pushing prices up amid tight logistics and higher landed costs.
3. Why did prices decline sharply in June 2025 across major regions?
High stock levels from earlier purchases, easing freight costs, weak seasonal demand, and cautious buying amid trade uncertainty led to price declines.
4. What is the expected price trend for Levocetirizine Dihydrochloride in July 2025?
Prices are expected to rise modestly as restocking slows, suppliers focus on margin recovery, and delayed freight surcharges increase landed costs.
