Vitamin B4 Prices Surge in USA and Europe Amidst Positive Consumer Sentiments

In January, there was a notable shift in the Vitamin B4 market in the USA and Europe, as prices ceased their previous downward trend and began to rise, coinciding with an overall improvement in market sentiment. This positive momentum was fuelled by increased demand, a more favourable trading environment on the exchange, rising inquiries, and some traders halting their quotations. The uptick in Vitamin B4 prices instilled confidence in the market, prompting positive news for businesses, heightened inquiries, and manufacturers actively adjusting prices upward. The downstream acceptance level remained satisfactory during this period.

China's manufacturing sector exhibited signs of recovery in January, with the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) reaching 49.2, surpassing the previous month's figure of 49, according to data from the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The domestic price of Vitamin B4 followed an upward trend, driven by increased overseas quotations. Recent maintenance plans in China also favoured the supply side, providing additional support for the rising prices. Additionally, the approaching Lunar New Year in February accelerated factory closures, leading to heightened demand for various goods, including Vitamin B4. The sudden increase in demand stretched the current stockpiles, leading to an upward push on prices, affecting not just China but also influencing other areas that rely on Chinese exports, including the USA and Europe. Furthermore, disruptions or limitations in shipments passing through the Panama Canal and Suez Canal, crucial pathways in global trade, have resulted in increased shipping and operational expenses. These additional costs have been passed on to consumers through higher prices, intensifying the upward momentum of Vitamin B4 prices.

The latest report underscores a significant surge in US consumer confidence, reaching its highest level in two years in January. This boost was fuelled by reduced inflation concerns and the expectation of upcoming interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve. This heightened consumer confidence translated into increased spending, driving up demand for Vitamin B4 and consequently leading to a rise in prices. Similarly, Germany experienced a consecutive second-month improvement in consumer confidence in January. Despite a somewhat subdued economic outlook, there was a positive shift in income expectations, contributing to sustained positive consumer sentiment. This favourable sentiment in Germany also plays a role in driving the upward trajectory of Vitamin B4 prices.

According to the analysis by ChemAnalyst, Vitamin B4 prices have persisted in their upward trend, driven by steady demand from the nutraceutical and healthcare sectors. Market players may prioritize replenishing their inventories in anticipation of a surge in demand, potentially constraining the overall supply of the Vitamin B4 market and bolstering prices. Nonetheless, the continued enforcement of high interest rates by central banks and the possibility of further disruptions in the supply chain could impede significant price escalation for Vitamin B4.