The prices of Biotin in Germany displayed a fluctuating trend throughout February 2025, influenced by various market dynamics. The month began with a slight price increase, driven by stable demand from key end-user industries, coupled with moderate supply-side constraints. However, this upward movement was short-lived, as prices began to decline sharply in the latter half of the month. The price drop was primarily attributed to weakening consumer sentiment, subdued procurement activities, and ample inventory levels maintained by market participants.

Key Takeaways:

• Biotin prices in Germany fluctuated, rising initially before sharply declining.
• Temporary price hikes stemmed from supply disruptions during the Chinese Lunar New Year.
• Post-holiday, increased Chinese supply led to excess inventory and price drops.
• Lower Asia-Europe Ocean freight rates reduced import costs, further pressuring prices.

The initial price uptick was largely driven by supply disruptions stemming from the Chinese Lunar New Year holiday, which lasted from January 29 to February 12. With China being a key exporter of Biotin to Germany, production slowdowns during the holiday period led to tighter supply conditions, prompting buyers to secure stocks in anticipation of potential shortages. This temporary supply constraint contributed to the price increase in early February.

However, following the resumption of production in China after the holiday, Biotin supply surged, leading to a decline in prices in Germany. As Chinese manufacturers ramped up output and export shipments resumed, the German market saw an influx of Biotin, easing supply constraints and exerting downward pressure on prices.

The post-Lunar New Year downturn in Asia-Europe Ocean trade significantly contributed to the decline in Biotin prices in Germany during the latter half of February 2025. As container rates on this route dropped by nearly 50% from early January levels, the cost of shipping Biotin from China, declined substantially. This reduction in logistics expenses made imported Biotin cheaper for German buyers, leading to downward pressure on Biotin prices.

Germany's higher-than-expected annual inflation rate of 2.8% in February 2025, as reported by Destatis, played a significant role in the decline of Biotin prices. Persistently high inflation, coupled with ongoing economic challenges such as elevated energy costs and high interest rates, continued to strain consumer purchasing power. As a result, downstream industries that rely on Biotin, including pharmaceuticals and animal nutrition, faced reduced demand as consumers remained cautious about their spending. This weakened procurement activity contributed to a buildup of inventory, ultimately exerting downward pressure on Biotin prices.

According to ChemAnalyst, Biotin prices may decline due to ongoing weak demand and excess supply in the market. Additionally, German consumer sentiment is expected to worsen as March approaches, contrary to predictions of a slight recovery. This shift is driven by growing concerns among consumers about the economic and political climate in Europe's largest economy, which could further influence Biotin pricing dynamics.