Global Colloidal Silicon Dioxide Prices Witness Mixed Trend in September
- 24-Sep-2024 2:35 PM
- Journalist: Shiba Teramoto
The global prices of Colloidal Silicon Dioxide followed a mixed trajectory in September, influenced by a range of factors. Colloidal Silicon Dioxide prices in Japan experienced a steady rise throughout the month, driven by consistent demand both domestically and internationally. A key factor was the 5.6% year-on-year increase in Japanese exports in August, marking the ninth consecutive month of growth, as reported by the Ministry of Finance. This sustained foreign demand exerted upward pressure on prices. Additionally, Japan's core consumer inflation continued to accelerate for the fourth straight month in August, remaining above the central bank's 2% target. This inflationary trend contributed to higher input costs, which were passed on to consumers, further driving up prices for Colloidal Silicon Dioxide.
In September, Colloidal Silicon Dioxide prices in India initially declined during the first and second weeks due to reduced new business and orders. This was primarily driven by shifting consumer preferences and heightened competition among manufacturers, which led to subdued demand. To remain competitive, suppliers were compelled to lower their prices. However, prices rebounded in the third week of the month as demand from key end-user sectors, particularly the pharmaceutical industry, increased. Colloidal Silicon Dioxide plays a critical role in pharmaceutical manufacturing, where it is used in tablet production as an anti-caking agent, disintegrant, and glidant. The Indian pharmaceutical market demonstrated solid growth in August 2024, with a year-on-year increase of 7.6%, and the sector is projected to expand further due to strong exports to regulated markets like the US and Europe, as well as sustained domestic demand. This growth spurred renewed demand for Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, contributing to the price recovery later in the month.
In Europe, inflation is showing signs of easing, fueling speculation that the European Central Bank (ECB) may implement further interest rate cuts later this year. Such monetary policy adjustments could alleviate financial strain on consumers, potentially fostering conditions conducive to higher Colloidal Silicon Dioxide prices.
Meanwhile, in the U.S., consumer confidence hit its highest point in four months in September, with more positive perceptions of the economy and inflation, despite a slight decline in labor market sentiment. This renewed optimism is expected to drive increased demand for Colloidal Silicon Dioxide, which could lead to a rise in prices. Additionally, U.S. ports are projected to experience significant congestion in September, spurred by heightened import volumes linked to fears of a potential labor strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. This surge in imports is likely to keep demand for Colloidal Silicon Dioxide robust, further supporting a possible price increase.
According to ChemAnalyst's analysis, Colloidal Silicon Dioxide prices are expected to maintain an upward trend driven by steady consumer demand, particularly from key sectors like pharmaceuticals and food processing. However, this growth may face headwinds from several potential risks. Geopolitical tensions, fluctuations in global commodity prices, and the ongoing fragmentation of the global economy could introduce volatility into the market.