The Sulphuric Acid market in both the Asian and European regions is exhibiting a noticeable bullish trend, largely driven by insufficient inventory levels. This scarcity has resulted in unmet demand for Sulphuric Acid, further fueling positive market sentiments. As the availability of Sulphuric Acid remains limited, buyers are finding it challenging to secure sufficient supplies, thus pushing prices higher. This upward pressure is intensified by the combination of ongoing industrial demand and supply chain constraints.

In Germany, the Sulphuric Acid market is currently demonstrating bullish trends, maintaining stability at higher price levels. This steady pricing is primarily due to the unchanged production costs, due to the stable prices of feedstock sulphur. The tight supply in Europe has prevented any significant price drops, and subdued demand in Europe’s export markets is holding out for a more favorable price environment. Supply availability is expected to improve towards the end of the first quarter of 2025. Additionally, disrupted supply chains, amid port congestions in major European hubs like Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Antwerp, further bolster the bullish market sentiment. For instance, Hamburg terminals are operating at 75-80% yard utilization, prompting market players to maintain higher price quotations. Overall, these factors collectively contribute to the ongoing bullishness in the German Sulphuric Acid market, as market participants navigate through supply challenges and anticipate future improvements.

The Sulphuric Acid market in Japan witnessed a notable uptick in activity resulting in a price hike of 6%, during the week ending on 17th January. Producers are now largely sold out for the entirety of the first quarter of this year. This surge in sales has enabled prices to edge higher. Transactions are being recorded across a wide price range, indicating strong activity and high demand. Market participants attribute this trend to multiple factors, including the demand for Sulphuric Acid in various industrial sectors, such as chemical manufacturing and automotive battery production. The tight availability of the chemical, combined with consistent demand from both domestic and international buyers, has contributed to this positive market outlook. Furthermore, the players are looking forward to more balanced supply conditions in the upcoming weeks. Overall, the Sulphuric Acid market in Japan remains dynamic and resilient, underpinned by its vital role in numerous industrial applications.

According to ChemAnalyst, Sulphuric Acid prices are projected to decrease gradually throughout the first quarter of 2025. The rate and timing of this decline will be primarily influenced by changes in availability. The currently subdued demand for Sulphuric Acid in delivered markets is expected to ease off within the first two months of the year, potentially mitigating some downward pressure on prices.