For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the Sodium Bisulfite market in North America experienced a notable shift towards increasing prices, with the USA witnessing the most significant price changes. However, the prices did decrease at the commencement of Q3.
This decrease is attributable to a combination of global and domestic factors. Chief among these is the reduction in production costs in key manufacturing and exporting countries, which has intensified price competition and could threaten the industry's long-term profitability. Additionally, U.S. buyers have postponed new purchases, expecting further price reductions, which has exacerbated the supply-demand imbalance. Companies are also liquidating their excess inventories to cut storage costs and mitigate spoilage risks, leading to an oversupply in the market and diminishing buyer willingness to accept higher prices.
Several key factors influenced market later prices to increase during this quarter. Supply challenges from major exporting regions, rising production costs, geopolitical tensions, and global supply disruptions all contributed to the upward pressure on prices. Additionally, geopolitical instability in the Middle East and President Joe Biden's new tariffs on Chinese imports further impacted market dynamics, leading to a surge in crude oil prices and overall supply chain costs. The overall trend in the USA market revealed stable and optimistic sentiment, with prices steadily increasing throughout the quarter. The quarter-ending price of USD 665/MT of Sodium Bisulfite CFR New York with average quarterly inclination of 1.19% in the USA signifies a robust and positive pricing environment.
Asia Pacific
In Q3 2024, the Sodium Bisulfite market in the APAC region saw a consistent uptrend in prices driven by several key factors. However, Q3 commences with a setback and decreased prices. The depreciation of the Chinese yuan against the US dollar reduced arbitrage opportunities for Chinese exporters, increasing domestic supply and decreasing global competitiveness. Simultaneously, ongoing geopolitical tensions disrupted trade flows and raised freight charges, further complicating the supply chain.
Reduced demand, both domestically and internationally, eased upward price pressure and potentially led to an oversupply situation. With manufacturing plants nearing scheduled shutdowns from late September to July, market players faced pressure to destock inventories, especially for heat-sensitive powdered products like Sodium Bisulfite. Lower-than-average cargo availability and slower shipments exacerbated these challenges. Later Increased export demand, tight supply conditions, and rising production costs due to elevated feedstock prices were primary influencers. These elements created a robust pricing environment, leading to steady price growth throughout the quarter.
In China specifically, the market experienced the most significant price changes, with ongoing supply challenges and strong international demand propelling prices upwards. Seasonal factors, such as upcoming manufacturing plant shutdowns and the need to clear heat-sensitive inventory, added complexity to the pricing dynamics. The quarter concluded with a price of USD 475/MT of Sodium Bisulfite -FOB Shanghai in China with average quarterly incline of 0.12%, highlighting the overall positive pricing trend in the region.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the Sodium Bisulfite market in Europe demonstrated a notable upward price trajectory, with particularly significant movements observed across major European economies. However, the quarter began with a temporary price decline. This initial decrease can be attributed to several interrelated factors. Primary among these was the reduction in production costs from key global manufacturers, which temporarily intensified price competition in the European market.
Furthermore, European buyers initially delayed their purchases in anticipation of further price reductions, contributing to a temporary supply-demand misalignment. Market participants were also focused on inventory optimization, leading to some destocking activities to minimize storage expenses and reduce product degradation risks.
However, several key factors drove the subsequent price increases during the quarter. Supply constraints from major exporting nations, escalating production costs, and persistent global supply chain disruptions all contributed to upward price pressure. Additionally, geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and ongoing concerns about Russian energy supplies further impacted market dynamics, leading to increased energy costs and overall manufacturing expenses across Europe. The overall trend in the European market revealed resilient and bullish sentiment, with prices showing consistent growth throughout the latter part of the quarter
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the Sodium Bisulfite market in North America experienced a notable price increase driven by several significant factors. Key influences included global supply chain disruptions, increased freight costs, and heightened demand from downstream industries. The early onset of the peak shipping season, geopolitical tensions, and concerns over labor disputes at major ports collectively strained the supply chain, contributing to rising costs. Additionally, the depreciation of the USD introduced further complexities, affecting import costs and market sentiments.
Focusing on the USA, the region witnessed the most substantial price changes within North America. The overall trend for Sodium Bisulfite in the USA was characterized by increasing prices, reflecting robust domestic demand and the strategic responses of market participants to supply constraints. Seasonal factors, such as the early start of the peak shipping season, exacerbated these trends. The price increase between the first and second half of the quarter was 3%, underscoring a continuous upward trend driven by sustained demand and supply chain bottlenecks.
By the end of Q2 2024, the price of Sodium Bisulfite in the USA settled at USD 643/MT CFR New York with an average quarterly incline of 1.72%. This quarter's pricing environment reflects a stable yet positive sentiment, bolstered by consistent market dynamics that favor price increases. Overall, the pricing trend has been influenced more by external market conditions and strategic responses rather than intrinsic supply-demand changes, suggesting a cautiously optimistic outlook for the market.
Asia Pacific
In Q2 2024, the Sodium Bisulfite market in the APAC region has experienced a significant upward trend in pricing, influenced by multiple factors. The quarter was marked by heightened production costs stemming from escalating raw material prices, particularly sulfuric acid. Persistent demand from downstream sectors, such as the food and chemical industries, further exacerbated supply constraints, leading to price inflation. Additionally, increased global freight charges and geopolitical tensions have compounded logistical challenges, contributing to higher market prices.
In China, the Sodium Bisulfite market exhibited notable resilience amidst these pressures. Seasonal factors, including peak production periods, amplified demand, while maintenance shutdowns in manufacturing plants restricted supply, creating a favorable pricing environment. As a result, prices in the second half of the quarter surged by 5% compared to the first half, highlighting the sustained upward momentum. The price of Sodium Bisulfite - FOB Shanghai stood at USD 475/MT at the end of the quarter, reflecting an average quarterly incline of 2.52%.
The overall pricing environment for Sodium Bisulfite in Q2 2024 can be characterized as strong and bullish. This trend was driven by robust demand, constrained supply, and external economic pressures. The combination of these factors has created an inflationary price trajectory, underscoring the market's resilience and potential for continued growth in the coming quarters.
Europe
In Q2 2024, the European Sodium Bisulfite market experienced a notable price surge driven by escalating production costs, geopolitical disruptions, and supply chain constraints. Germany, a primary importer, saw a significant price drop in April, primarily due to a downturn in exporting regions. This decrease was fueled by substantial inventories accumulated through previous bulk purchases, leading to an oversupply and dampened market sentiment. The combination of reduced purchasing activity and weakened consumer confidence, compounded by inflationary pressures, further curtailed demand.
The easing of geopolitical tensions contributed to a reduction in freight charges, thereby impacting transportation costs and overall pricing in Germany. Supply dynamics were also affected by the appreciation of the US Dollar against the Euro, creating challenges for producers and suppliers. Rising feedstock prices have substantially increased production costs, while logistical disruptions from the Panama Canal drought and reduced vessel traffic created supply bottlenecks and market strain. Additionally, the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza led to sporadic shipping delays, particularly affecting routes through the Red Sea and Cape of Good Hope, exacerbating market volatility.
In Germany, a combination of a weakened Euro and intensified inflationary pressures further drove prices upward. The convergence of these factors underscores the complex interplay between geopolitical events, currency fluctuations, and logistical challenges impacting the Sodium Bisulfite market. This multifaceted scenario highlights the intricate and interconnected nature of global trade and its profound effects on regional markets.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
During the initial months of 2024, the Sodium bisulfite market in North America saw notable price fluctuations influenced by various factors, leading to a volatile pricing landscape. The quarter ended with Sodium bisulfite priced at USD 610/MT CFR New York, showing an average quarterly decrease of 0.85%.
A significant factor behind these price shifts was the sustained demand from downstream sectors, prompting large orders and subsequent proactive price increases by market participants. Geopolitical tensions and trade disruptions, such as disruptions in critical shipping routes like the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, also contributed to the price volatility. These disruptions resulted in higher freight charges and logistical bottlenecks, further impacting pricing dynamics. North America's heavy dependence on Sodium bisulfite imports, particularly from China, was a noteworthy factor shaping market trends. Fluctuations in Chinese production, including pauses during the Lunar New Year and Spring Festival, led to constrained shipments and limited US inventories, prompting market players to adjust their pricing strategies to safeguard profit margins.
Towards the end of the quarter, Sodium bisulfite prices experienced a significant decline, impacting the overall trajectory of the quarter, although this shift did not drastically alter the overall trend. As the quarter concluded, market participants focused on inventory management practices to reduce existing inventories, preparing for replenishment with fresh supplies. This strategic adjustment in pricing aimed to optimize inventory levels and maintain liquidity within the market, laying the groundwork for a more sustainable trading environment moving forward.
Asia Pacific
Throughout the first quarter of 2024, the pricing of Sodium bisulfite in the APAC region experienced notable fluctuations, culminating in Sodium bisulfite FOB Shanghai in China priced at USD 440/MT by the quarter's end, reflecting a 1.87% average quarterly decrease.
In the Chinese market, these fluctuations were driven by a complex interplay of factors. February saw a significant decline in prices, attributed to the traditional Spring Festival and Lunar New Year closures, which curtailed demand from industries reliant on Sodium bisulfite. Additionally, labor shortages in producing factories further limited output. To mitigate surplus stock before the holidays, aggressive pricing strategies were employed, compounded by logistical disruptions and accumulation of products in warehouses. Furthermore, the downward trend in raw material prices, notably sulfuric acid, added to pricing pressures. March continued the downward trend, influenced by currency devaluation, excess supply, normalized freight charges, and heightened market competition. Lower sulfuric acid prices further impacted downstream trading entities.
However, at the start of the quarter, increased demand for Sodium bisulfite prompted a temporary price increase, driven by a desire to secure larger quantities and strategic bulk ordering. Manufacturers adjusted pricing strategies to maintain profitability amidst these dynamic market forces, emphasizing the need for adaptability and vigilance for all involved in the Sodium bisulfite market.
Europe
During the initial months of 2024, pricing for Sodium bisulfite in the European market, particularly in CFR Hamburg, Germany, fluctuated due to various factors. Despite these fluctuations, the market generally saw a decrease in Sodium bisulfite prices, mainly driven by stable demand from downstream sectors.
This surge in demand exerted significant pressure on prices. Furthermore, disruptions in the global supply chain, especially in the Red Sea region, led to delays in shipments and longer lead times. These disruptions, coupled with shortages of essential goods and materials, contributed to the rise in prices. Currency fluctuations, particularly the depreciation of the Euro against the dollar, further complicated matters. The increasing costs of imported materials priced in USD affected both traders and buyers, leading them to accept goods at higher prices amid rising freight charges.
Although prices decreased towards the end of Q1 2024 and dropped significantly, affecting the overall trajectory of the quarter, this was partly offset by improved product availability, easing worries about supply shortages and putting pressure on prices to decrease. However, challenges remain due to low demand, slow purchasing activity, weakened consumer confidence, and reduced freight costs, all of which continue to impact prices.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America:
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the North American Sodium Bisulfite market experienced a situation of stability, marked by consistent demand and ample supply that allowed industry participants to maintain sufficient inventories to meet downstream requirements. The price decrease in key exporting regions, particularly the Chinese provinces, had a cascading impact on pricing in the USA. Despite facing challenging market conditions, merchants managed to deplete their finished goods and address backlogs.
The supply of raw materials, including sulfur and soda ash manufacturing equipment, from exporting countries remained weak and consolidated. However, the potential increase in interest rates raised concerns about reduced demand from industries heavily reliant on Sodium Bisulfite. As the importing nation, the USA closely mirrored the pricing trend of the major exporting country, contributing to the noticeable decrease in Sodium Bisulfite prices.
The CFR New York values for Sodium Bisulfite in Q4 2023 were USD 627/MT, reflecting an average quarterly decline of 6.91%. Sluggish demand from end-user sectors, low production activities, and pessimistic sentiments regarding demand from the end-user sector were the primary factors driving the price decline throughout the quarter.
Asia Pacific:
The Sodium Bisulfite market in the APAC region has experienced various influences during the current quarter. Initially, there was limited demand in the downstream sector, leading to potential destocking activities owing to an oversupply of the material in the market and the sluggish performance of downstream industries. This downward trend was impacted by several factors, including the declining prices of the raw material, Sulfuric acid, resulting in reduced production costs. The quarter-ending price of Sodium Bisulfite FOB-Shanghai in China for Q4 2023 was USD 468/MT, reflecting an average quarterly decline of 0.18%.
Despite the subdued importing market, the overall Sodium Bisulfite market remained weak and in a state of consolidation. Market participants, holding significant domestic inventories, further contributed to the prevailing weak market sentiments. In response to competitive market conditions and destocking initiatives, companies chose to strategically lower their prices to secure higher order volumes by the year-end. However, at the end of Q4, the prices of sodium nitrate increased due to a diminishing supply of Sodium Bisulfite, placing manufacturers in a delicate position as they navigate the balance between profit margins and rising production costs.
This surge in global off-takes strained the Chinese market, prompting manufacturers to reassess their pricing structures to capitalize on international demand. As demand outstrips supply, the economic principle of scarcity dictates that prices rise to balance the market. The anticipation of increased demand before major holidays, such as the Chinese New Year, may lead to temporary shortages and price hikes as inventories are replenished. Challenges extend to transportation networks, facing delays and higher shipping costs due to the influx of goods and heightened demand. On the upstream side, the incline in Sulfuric acid and soda prices intensified in December due to continuous increased demand, causing raw material prices to persistently rise.
Europe -
In the last quarter of 2023, the pricing dynamics of the European Sodium Bisulfite market experienced various influences. While there was a general depreciation in prices throughout Q4, a noticeable increase occurred in the middle of the quarter, specifically in November. Overall, the European Sodium Bisulfite market, particularly in Germany, witnessed a decline in prices due to a subdued demand outlook, abundant supply, and low production costs.
The primary factor behind this decrease was the ample supply of Sodium Bisulfite in the domestic market. Compounding this situation, the main raw material for Sodium Bisulfite, Sulfuric acid, showed recent weakness. Moreover, industries such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, and food, which are significant consumers of Sodium Bisulfite, increasingly opted for just-in-time purchases. Additionally, Sodium Bisulfite prices experienced a decline due to the accumulation of surplus inventory among suppliers. This surplus resulted from heightened production activities, leading to an imbalance between supply and demand.
Nevertheless, prices saw an increase primarily driven by heightened demand for Sodium Bisulfite from downstream industries. This surge prompted restocking activities and substantial orders, placing strain on supply chains and causing prices to rise. Additionally, the market grappled with escalating production and energy costs, further contributing to the upward price trend.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
During Q3 of 2023, the CFR New York rates for Sodium Bisulfite exhibited fluctuations, ranging from $802 per metric ton to $778 per metric ton. This downward price variation indicated a clear preference for lower price points, with an average quarterly decrease of 2.10%. Over this period, the domestic Sodium Bisulfite market experienced a decline primarily due to increased demand in various industries. Notably, abundant inventory levels prompted sellers to gradually reduce their prices on a monthly basis, contributing significantly to the pessimistic pricing trend in the United States. Furthermore, the costs associated with imports increased in the latter part of the quarter due to fluctuations in the exchange rate between the US dollar and the Yuan, leading market participants to curtail their trading activities. Despite some easing of inflation in the third quarter of 2023, which resulted from significant shifts in the US economy, market participants remained watchful due to the Federal Reserve's decision to raise interest rates. Starting in July, prices noticeably decreased, driven by expenses related to warehousing, warehouse utilization, and inventory in the United States. Additionally, the prices of the key raw material, Sulfur, in the Chinese export market, witnessed a decline, further reinforcing the downward trajectory of Sodium Bisulfite prices.
Asia Pacific
In the third quarter of 2023, there was a significant uptick in Sodium Bisulfite prices. These prices rose from $435 per metric ton in July to $472 per metric ton FOB Shanghai by September, reflecting a clear trend toward higher prices, with an average quarterly increase of 2.40%. China, as the world's second-largest economy, experienced a slower growth rate than initially expected in the first half of the year, which continued into the latter part of the year, casting a negative shadow over the early third quarter. This slowdown was primarily attributed to worsening deflation, increased youth unemployment, and weakened foreign demand. Several factors contributed to the price increase of Sodium Bisulfite in China during this quarter. The most significant factor was the strengthening of the Chinese Yuan (RMB) relative to the US dollar, along with heightened local demand from end-user businesses. Additionally, the cost of the raw material, Sulfur, in the Chinese market rose due to increasing energy costs. Market dynamics revealed supply constraints as acid factories maintained low inventories. While maintenance companies gradually resumed production, demand did not see substantial improvement, resulting in significant market pressure. The appreciating value of the Yuan and the weakening US dollar led to higher export costs, affecting both domestic and international markets. Market participants, responding to the general demand, kept their supplies relatively constrained, and manufacturing remained consistent throughout the period. The heightened demand and disruptions in the supply chain created an imbalance that put upward pressure on prices. Towards the end of September, just before the Golden Week holidays, there was a slight uptick in both freight and manufacturing due to increased demand and inquiries. Another contributing factor to the price surge was strategic bulk ordering by market participants aiming to replenish their inventories. This increased demand led many buyers to expedite their Sodium Bisulfite procurement, intensifying overall demand pressures during the holiday season.
Europe
During the third quarter of 2023, there was a consistent trend in the pricing of Sodium Bisulfite, with a slight increase. In July, as the situation stabilized and the economy began to recover, German Sodium Bisulfite suppliers placed significant orders to replenish their inventories and meet the growing demand across the country. Nonetheless, industry experts noted that the German manufacturing sector faced initial challenges at the beginning of the third quarter. To cater to the increasing demand from downstream businesses, importing Sodium Bisulfite from Asia, particularly China, remained a viable option throughout the quarter. The devaluation of the Euro also played a notable role in driving up prices in Germany, as the strong US dollar forced local businesses to pay higher prices for Chinese imports. Economic factors, including high inflation and a challenging manufacturing environment in Germany, continued to hinder growth, causing market investors to adopt a cautious "wait-and-see" stance. Additionally, the prices of the primary raw material, Sulfur, in the Chinese export market increased due to rising energy costs, further supporting the upward trajectory of Sodium Bisulfite prices. In summary, it is likely that importing countries experienced a similar price trend to those countries exporting Sodium Bisulfite during this period.
For the Quarter Ending June 2023
North America
In the second quarter of 2023, Sodium Bisulfite prices in the US market fell significantly due to sporadic fluctuations between supply and demand during the month. The price was valued at the end of Q2 2023, representing an average quarterly decline of 2.00%. In the beginning, because of improved dynamics of supply and demand, the CFR New York values of Sodium Bisulfite in the US market dramatically increased. Since the zero-tolerance policy was abandoned, trade between Asia and the US has increased. There was a mild shortage of Sodium Bisulfite on the shelves of domestic warehouses because of the increasing demand from end-user suppliers. Later dwindled market situation was witnessed as the price of Sodium Bisulfite was weak and consolidating, with most downstream markets experiencing average demand recently. Also, to destock their existing inventories due to seasonal changes sodium Bisulfite is available in powdered form which also kept the market feeble. Also, distributors are hesitant to place large orders due to the falling prices. Major players in the market are expected to further reduce prices in the coming months. The cost of energy, which is a major input cost for sodium bicarbonate production, has declined in recent months, due to the slowdown in the global economy and the decline in the price of oil further supported the lower trajectory of Sodium Bisulfite.
APAC
The market price of Sodium Bisulfite collectively declined significantly in the second quarter of 2023, driven by weak domestic and international demand. The price was valued and acquired at the end of Q2 2023, with an average quarterly decline of 3.44%. At the beginning of Q2, the OPEC+ surprise cut announcement and rebounding China demand outlook have propelled the Sodium Bisulfite market to be strong. Furthermore, Chinese exports continue to perform better trade activities in April. Also, increase energy prices and hiked-up production costs influenced the positive market situation. Also, the upward trend was largely driven by the increase in demand from end-use industries, including the food and beverage sectors. Also, the increased production rates in order to refill the inventories with fresh stock and to cater to the upcoming demand market situation remained strong. Later, the Uncertain downstream inquiries over the course of this month further kept the market feeble. The demand for Sodium Bisulfite from the downstream food and beverages, cosmetics, and preservative industries declined amid uncertain economic conditions and the increasing inflation rate halted the trade process. The inventory level of Sodium Bisulfite was at a higher edge as they increased their production rate. According to the major market players, the buyers were shying away from placing large orders as they suspected a further decline in price.
Europe
In the second quarter of 2023, the demand for Sodium Bisulfite decreased, leading to a decline in market prices. The unexpected oil output cut decision by the OPEC+ members also had a favorable impact on the market environment. Increased energy costs, increased production expenses, and skyrocketing shipping costs all contributed to the market's continued strength. Later as the second month started, the prices started to drop. The market's fundamentals revealed that rising domestic demand was the main driver of higher prices for sodium Bisulfite in April. The market in Germany will likely be driven by new production in exporting nations in response to rising demand and high energy prices. The availability of Sodium Bisulfite in Germany increased due to several factors including manufacturers increased production and imports of Sodium Bisulfite from other countries increased. Also, due to seasonal changes, the merchants decide to destock their inventories to avoid damage. These units have been forced to sell Sodium Bisulfite at lower prices, but buyers are still waiting to see if prices will drop further. Import offers have increased this week, but they remain substantially below domestic prices. European buyers of Sodium Bisulfite are delaying restocking due to a lack of end-user demand, and there are downbeat price expectations.
For the Quarter Ending March 2023
North America
The first quarter of 2023 saw a slight inclination in the prices for Sodium Bisulfite in the North American region. At the beginning of Q1 2023, the prices were witnessed to remain stable, backed by moderate demand dynamics from the end-user sector and enough inventories among the merchants. Later, in the month of February, the prices appreciated on the back increase of prices in the exporting nations considerably. Yet, the prices maintained a stale trajectory in the North American region as compared to the APAC region on the back of lowering freight charges many folds. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 885/MT for CFR New York with an average quarterly inclination of 1.86%.
Asia Pacific
In the first quarter of 2023, the market for Sodium Bisulfite in the Asia Pacific region was appreciating. Since January, the downstream centralized stock inventories have steadily come to an end. Also, the domestic logistics were shut down at the end of the year, and the domestic market trade of sodium Bisulfite stopped during the spring festival. After the Spring Festival, the market trade of sodium Bisulfite gradually recovered, and the market price of sodium Bisulfite continued to move forward steadily. By the commencement of February, the prices rose tremendously, supported by the fact that the due to the relatively low Sodium Bisulfite inventory and the modest increase in the cost of upstream raw materials, soda ash, several businesses boosted their factory prices, which led to a modest increase in Sodium Bisulfite price on the domestic market. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 490/MT for FOB Shanghai in March, with an average quarterly inclination of 8.47%.
Europe
Prices for Sodium Bisulfite in the European region slightly increased in the first quarter of 2023. At the beginning of the first quarter of 2023, prices were projected to be constant, supported by merchants having sufficient stocks and modest end-user demand dynamics. Subsequently, in the month of February, prices increased due to a significant rise in exporting countries' pricing. Despite the fact that freight costs were drastically reduced, pricing in the North American region remained stagnant relative to those in the APAC region.
For the Quarter Ending December 2022
North America
The Sodium Bisulfite market fluctuated in North America during the fourth quarter of 2022. Although China's intermittent lockdowns compelled manufacturers of other food additives to reduce prices, demand for Sodium Bisulfite in end-user Food & Beverage industries in the US remained strong. There were sufficient inventories at the end of the quarter to satisfy domestic demand. As the two largest economies in the world—China and the US—struggled with clogged supply chains and fluctuating oil prices, the Biden administration took the initiative to waive some duties on imports from China. This was done in an effort to reduce the surging inflation. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 845/MT for CFR New York in December.
Asia Pacific
In the fourth quarter of 2022, the market for Sodium Bisulfite in the Asia Pacific region fluctuated. In the domestic Chinese market, the cost of Sodium Bisulfite declined in the first half of the quarter before increasing in the second half. Due to the closure of industrial facilities for the Golden Week, orders for China's Sodium Bisulfite producing industry decreased progressively during the first week of October. After a one-week hiatus, Chinese traders had to contend with a variety of conflicting signals, making it difficult for the market to catch up to the modest increase observed in several downstream industries during the first half of Q4. Due to ample stocks, domestic producers and suppliers were able to satisfy the entire quarter's demand. Because suppliers and customers in the Chinese and Indian markets had enough stocks, offtakes from the downstream food and beverage sectors were consistent throughout the year. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 385/MT for FOB Shanghai in December.
Europe
In the fourth quarter of 2022, opinions on the European Sodium Bisulfite Market were inconsistent. Despite China's repeated lockdowns compelling producers of different food additives to lower costs, the US market offtakes for Sodium Bisulfite in end-user food and beverage industries remained healthy. Over the quarter, there were sufficient inventories to meet domestic demand. The Biden administration took the initiative to lower some tariffs on imports from China as the world's two largest economies, China and the US, struggled with clogged supply chains and shifting energy prices. This contributed to bringing down the out-of-control inflation.
For the Quarter Ending September 2022
North America
The third quarter of 2022 fluctuated comments on the North American Sodium Bisulfite market. Although China's sporadic lockdowns forced producers of different food additives to lower costs, the US market offtakes for Sodium Bisulfite in end-user food and beverage industries remained robust. Over the quarter, there were enough inventories to meet the domestic demand. The Biden administration took the initiative to waive some tariffs on imports from China to lower the skyrocketing inflation as the two largest economies in the world, i.e., China and the US, struggled with congested supply chains and shifting oil costs. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 892/MT for CFR New York in September.
Asia Pacific
In the third quarter of 2022, the market for sodium bisulfite in the Asia Pacific area was on the decline. In the domestic Chinese market, the cost of sodium bisulfite declined in the first half of the quarter before increasing in the second half. Sending the product to foreign markets was much simpler than under the previous, unjustified zero-tolerance policy for covid outbreaks. Given that China is the world's top supplier of sodium bisulfite, the tolerance laws and regulations considerably enhanced production and logistics. Because suppliers and customers in the Chinese and Indian markets had enough stocks, offtakes from the downstream food and beverage sectors were consistent throughout the year. Towards the end of the quarter, the prices for Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at around USD 397/MT for FOB Shanghai in September.
Europe
Comments on the European Sodium Bisulfite market fluctuated in the third quarter of 2022. The US market offtakes for Sodium Bisulfite in end-user food and beverage industries remained healthy, despite China's periodic lockdowns forcing producers of various food additives to decrease costs. There were enough inventories over the quarter to satisfy domestic demand. As the world's two largest economies, China and the US, battled clogged supply chains and fluctuating energy prices, the Biden administration lifted some tariffs on imports from China. This helped to reduce the inflation that was spiraling out of control.
For the Quarter Ending June 2022
North America
The second quarter of 2022 had positive comments on the North American Sodium Bisulfite market. Although China's sporadic lockdowns forced producers of different food additives to lower costs, the US market offtakes for Sodium Bisulfite in end-user food and beverage industries remained robust. Over the quarter, there were enough inventories to meet the domestic demand. The Biden administration took the initiative to waive some tariffs on imports from China to lower the skyrocketing inflation as the two largest economies in the world, i.e., China and the US, struggled with congested supply chains and shifting oil costs.
Asia Pacific
The market for Sodium Bisulfite in the Asia Pacific region showed a positive trend in the second quarter of 2022. The prices of Sodium Bisulfite in the Chinese domestic market were unchanged during the first half of the quarter before rising towards the end of the period. Sending the product to overseas markets was significantly more challenging than the unreasonable zero covid tolerance policy implemented following the covid outbreak in the first week of April. The tolerance regulations and legislation significantly impacted manufacturing and logistics, given that China is the world's largest supplier of Sodium Bisulfite. Offtakes from the downstream food and beverage sectors remained constant throughout the year because suppliers and clients in both the Chinese and Indian markets had sufficient stockpiles.
Europe
Due to sustained offtakes in the end-user food and beverage sectors, the European Sodium Bisulfite market displayed a positive trend during the second quarter of 2022. To satisfy the entire downstream demand in the region, European manufacturers and traders had a sizable quantity of Sodium Bisulfite inventories on hand. While the conflict between Russia and Ukraine significantly impacted shipping prices and the movement of goods into and out of Europe, it also made it more difficult for European nations to do business on global markets.
For the Quarter Ending March 2022
North America
In North America, the prices of Sodium Bisulfite surged throughout the 1st quarter of 2022 on account of firm downstream demand. The increased consumption of Sodium Bisulfite in the food and beverage industries propelled the prices of Sodium Bisulfite upwards. Furthermore, the augmented upstream cost due to enhanced feedstock prices soared the Sodium Bisulfite prices. Besides, inclined crude oil prices and logistic charges amidst Russia-Ukraine war tensions are other few factors that influenced the price value of Sodium Bisulfite in the domestic market. Moreover, the shortage of labor and continued port congestions further supported the price hike of Sodium Bisulfite. The prices of Sodium Bisulfite were assessed at USD 905/MT CFR New work and USD 725/MT FOB Texas in March.
Asia Pacific
Asia-Pacific region witnessed an upsurge in the price of Sodium Bisulfite during Q1 of 2022, backed by solid demand from end-user industries and increased upstream costs. In India, the evaluated prices for Sodium Bisulfite food-grade were USD 543.35/MT Ex-Mumbai and USD 571.08/MT Ex-Vadodara in March. The reason is escalated demand from food processing industries to use it as a food additive or food preservative. Besides, the price value of upstream Sulphur Dioxide increased during the considered period, which in turn caused a hike in Sodium Bisulfite prices. Furthermore, skyrocketed crude prices owing to the continued Russia-Ukraine conflicts added to the already augmented price value of Sodium Bisulfite. Higher logistic charges and shipping restrictions further propelled the prices of Sodium Bisulfite.
Europe
Following the pricing trend of North America and Asia-Pacific, the European market observed a noticeable increment in the prices of Sodium Bisulfite during Q1 of 2022 by 5-6%. The primary factor which influenced the price value of Sodium Bisulfite was increased demand from downstream industries. Furthermore, the supply was somewhat constrained due to enhanced feedstock prices, which propelled the Sodium Bisulfite prices even more. In addition, port congestions in several essential ports and cargoes shortage were other significant factors that led to the price surge of Sodium Bisulfite. Moreover, the fuelled freight charges and crude oil prices have also supported the price soar of Sodium Bisulfite.
For the Quarter Ending December 2021
North America
The pricing trend of Sodium Bisulfate remained stagnant across the North American region during Q4 2021. The Sodium Bisulfate FOB Texas and CFR New York prices got assembled at USD 885/MT and USD 715/MT, respectively, in December. In terms of demand, consistent offtakes from the downstream food and beverages industries were observed in quarter 4. The increased cost of raw materials, soaring energy prices, supply disruptions, high freight charges, and the Omicron spread of the coronavirus has further supported the increased prices of Sodium Bisulfate in the North American region. The demand for full transparency about the ingredients, production processes, and supply chain from consumers has subsequently profited the margins of various food preservatives in the US, which has also contributed to the increased demand for the product.
Asia Pacific
During the fourth quarter of 2021, the pricing trend of Sodium Bisulfite demonstrated mixed sentiments in the Asia Pacific region. In the Indian domestic market, the Ex-Mumbai prices of Sodium Bisulfate increased from USD 507.02/MT to USD 518.76/MT from October to November on the back of the increased demand amid soaring freight charges. Several players increased their offers during Q4 in order to sustain their profitability. The surged raw material cost coupled with skyrocketing production costs due to coal shortage across China have also contributed to the overall price trend in the country. Amid the supply constraints, the Ex-Vadodara prices for Sodium Bisulfate got settled at USD 207.02/MT in December.
Europe
The European market of Sodium Bisulfate mirrored the pricing trend of the US during this quarter, which eventually gained numbers from mid-November. High commodity prices, increased freight costs, high raw material prices, and the emergence of the Omicron variant have exacerbated the market of Sodium Bisulfate across Europe. The demand remained strong from the food and beverage industries in this quarter.
