For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the acrylamide market experienced a mixed pricing environment in the North America region. In the first half of the quarter, U.S. acrylamide prices rose significantly due to high-priced imports and a 3% increase in upstream acrylonitrile prices. Demand from the water treatment sector remained strong, while inquiries from the paper and pulp manufacturing sector were low. Despite ongoing uncertainty in the upstream crude oil market, participants adapted to these changes. Additionally, global oversupply in packaging introduced competitive pressures, although the outlook for key segments like containerboard and kraft paper remained positive.
In the second half of Q3 2024, the acrylamide pricing environment in North America witnessed a significant decline, influenced by various market factors. The quarter was marked by disruptions, including plant shutdowns by key players like SNF Floerger Group and Kemira Water Solutions due to hurricanes, which led to supply constraints and contributed to the downward price trend. Decreased industrial and household activities, along with reduced demand in the water treatment sector, further pressured prices.
Specifically in the U.S., the market experienced a 3% increase from the previous quarter, with the quarter-ending price settling at USD 1494/MT for acrylamide powder CFR USGC. Overall, the quarter was characterized by fluctuating prices driven by supply chain challenges and reduced demand, creating volatile market sentiment.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the Acrylamide pricing in the APAC region saw a significant increase due to various factors. Market prices were influenced by firm consumer demand, heightened industrial activities, and increased demand in the water treatment sector, especially from the water treatment sector, where it played a vital role in flocculants for water purification. Additionally, while upstream acrylonitrile prices fell by 3.6%, manufacturers maintained moderate production levels, ensuring sufficient inventory to meet ongoing demand. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah, along with drone attacks on Russian refineries, added pressure on the upstream crude oil market, contributing to the price surge. The disruption in plant operations at Yongsan Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. in South Korea also impacted supply, further boosting prices.
China, experiencing the maximum price changes, saw a notable increase in Acrylamide prices. The market trend in China reflected a positive sentiment with an overall increasing price environment. The quarter recorded a -7% change from the previous quarter. The quarter-ending price for Acrylamide FOB Ningbo in China stood at USD 1211/MT, showcasing a consistent upward pricing trend.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the acrylamide market experienced a hybrid pricing environment in the European region. During the first half of Q3 2024, the acrylamide market in Europe saw escalating prices driven by increased demand from industries such as textiles, water treatment, and paper and pulp, leading to a tightening of supply. Supply chain disruptions, including plant shutdowns, further constrained availability, pushing prices upward. Germany experienced the most significant price fluctuations compared to other European countries, influenced by seasonal trends and market dynamics that highlighted a strong correlation between demand patterns and pricing adjustments. In the second half of Q3 2024, acrylamide prices in the German domestic market declined due to weak upstream support, as continuous drops in acrylonitrile prices and reduced crude oil costs further weakened the cost structure. Despite a moderate uptick in demand from the water treatment sector, overall demand remained low to moderate, particularly from the subdued paper and pulp manufacturing sector. This led to cuts in purchasing activity and employment, with significant reductions in input demand resulting in decreased purchasing prices and output charges. The market situation was bearish, with manufacturers operating at reduced rates amid high material availability and sluggish consumer demand. Despite a slight decrease in prices from the previous quarter, the overall trajectory for acrylamide pricing in Germany remained positive throughout Q3. The quarter concluded with the price of acrylamide FOB Hamburg reaching USD 1412/MT, reflecting a market sentiment characterized by fluctuating pricing trends.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, Acrylamide pricing in North America experienced a significant upward trend driven by several key factors. There was a notable increase in demand for Acrylamide due to heightened industrial and household activities, especially in the water treatment sector. This demand surge coincided with supply-side disruptions, including a temporary Force Majeure declared by SNF Floerger Group in Pearlington, Mississippi, due to a storm in May 2024, which impacted market availability. Additionally, the rising cost of upstream raw materials such as Acrylonitrile and increased freight charges contributed to the elevated price levels.
In the USA, the market saw the most significant price changes within North America. The overall trend reflected a consistent increase in prices due to seasonal demand peaks for water treatment products during the summer. The quarter witnessed a 10% price increase from the previous quarter.
Hence, the pricing environment has been predominantly positive, marked by robust demand and constrained supply. The quarter ended with the price of Acrylamide Powder CFR USGC at USD 1558/MT. Despite some supply chain challenges and plant shutdowns, the market's upward pricing trajectory underscored the strong market fundamentals and anticipated ongoing demand.
APAC
In Q2 2024, Acrylamide prices in the APAC region experienced a mixed trend due to several significant factors. Initially, during the first two months of the quarter, prices showed an upward trend. Acrylamide prices in the Chinese domestic market rose due to improved consumer demand and increased industrial and household activities, particularly in the water treatment sector. The rise in upstream Acrylonitrile costs by 1.6% also contributed to the price increase. Despite a decrease in crude oil prices, driven by an unexpected surge in US crude oil inventories and subdued demand forecasts, Acrylamide prices remained bullish. Overall, China's exports and imports rebounded in April and May, reflecting improved domestic and international demand.
However, in June 2024, Acrylamide prices plunged in the Chinese domestic market due to a slowdown in consumer demand and high inventory levels. The monsoon season led to reduced purchases from the water treatment sector, and inquiries from the paper and pulp manufacturing sector remained muted. Upstream Acrylonitrile prices decreased by 1.0%, while ongoing conflicts and disruptions in the oil market continued to exert cost pressure. Overall, weak demand and sufficient supply contributed to the bearish market situation.
Focusing on China, where the most substantial price fluctuations occurred, the quarter saw a marked downward trend in Acrylamide prices. A significant event contributing to this decline was the force majeure declared by Anhui Jucheng Fine Chemicals Co., Ltd. due to a heavy rainstorm from June 23-30, temporarily halting operations and affecting supply. However, the impact on overall market prices remained limited due to high initial inventories and steady production rates from other manufacturers. The correlation between seasonal demand shifts and price changes was evident, with the summer season typically seeing lower consumption. Overall, the pricing environment for Acrylamide in Q2 2024 was negative by the end of the quarter, reflecting a consistent downward sentiment. Compared to the previous quarter, prices decreased by 7%, underscoring this trend. The quarter concluded with Acrylamide priced at USD 1197/MT FOB Ningbo, indicating a significant reduction from earlier levels and marking a period of price stabilization aligned with decreased demand and improved raw material availability.
Europe
In Q2 2024, Acrylamide prices in the European market experienced a pronounced upward trajectory, driven by a combination of supply chain disruptions, escalating raw material costs, and heightened freight charges. The prices surged as the market contended with ongoing issues in the Red Sea and Suez Canal, which exacerbated shipping delays and contributed to the rising cost of logistics. The rebound in crude oil prices also played a pivotal role, as OPEC+ members extended production cuts, directly impacting the cost pressure on upstream Acrylonitrile, a key precursor in Acrylamide production.
Germany witnessed the most significant price fluctuations within Europe during this quarter. The German market displayed an incrementally bullish trend as demand from downstream sectors like textiles, water treatment, and the paper industry showed a moderate recovery. This recovery coincided with the pre-summer restocking activities, which further strained the supply-demand dynamics. The overall sentiment in the German Acrylamide market was positive, manifesting a 13% increase from the previous quarter.
The quarter concluded with Acrylamide priced at USD 1438/MT FOB Hamburg, underscoring a steady upward momentum in the market. Despite the disruptions, no significant plant shutdowns were reported, suggesting that the supply chain managed to navigate through the challenges without substantial operational halts. The pricing environment in Q2 2024 was decidedly positive, reflecting robust underlying demand and constrained supply conditions.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The first quarter of 2024 has been a mixed period for Acrylamide pricing in the North American region. In the USA, the overall trend has been bullish, with prices inclining over the quarter. In the first month, Acrylamide prices dropped due to weak demand, especially in water treatment and paper-making sectors. Severe weather disrupted operations, leading to temporary closures. Paper demand fell by 2%, reflecting a broader slowdown in packaging. Supply disruptions in the Middle East caused shipping delays, affecting Acrylamide imports.
However, in the last two months, the prices noted a significant increase. Firstly, there was an increase in the cost of upstream Acrylonitrile, which led to higher production costs and subsequently impacted the pricing of Acrylamide. Additionally, during these two months, higher freight charges due to supply disruptions in the Middle East and potential issues in the Red Sea and Suez Canal continued to exert upward pressure on the prices of the product.
Demand in the downstream water treatment and paper-making industries was low, leading to decreased consumption and weaker market conditions. The downturn in the paper-making sector, coupled with a decline in packaging demand, further dampened the overall demand outlook in the region. In conclusion, the pricing environment for Acrylamide in the North American region, has exhibited mixed trends during the first quarter of 2024. The latest quarter-ending prices for Acrylamide Powder CFR USGC in the USA were USD 1399/MT.
APAC
In Q1 2024, the pricing dynamics of Acrylamide in the APAC region, particularly in China, saw a mixed trend with moderate to low demand and steady to moderate supply. The prices of Acrylamide in China experienced marginal fluctuations, primarily driven by weak consumer demand and oversupply situations. The downstream textile, paper, and pulp manufacturing industries witnessed slow inquiries and increased destocking practices, leading to a lack of growth in new orders from the overseas market in the first half of the quarter.
The cost support from the upstream Acrylonitrile remained stable, with no major fluctuations observed. However, crude oil prices exhibited a decline in the first half of the quarter due to global oversupply and weakening demand dynamics. The year-end holidays and destocking season further resulted in diminished industrial activity and decreased demand for raw materials. The businesses operated at a slower pace, and low market transactions were registered in the region.
However, towards the end of Q1, the prices noted marginal improvement due to cost pressure from the crude oil market. Overall, the market was influenced by various factors such as weak consumer demand, oversupply situations, global crude oil prices, and seasonal effects. Overall, the market situation remained bearish, with moderate to high supply and low demand. The final quarter's price for Acrylamide FOB Ningbo in China was USD 1265/MT.
Europe
In the first quarter of 2024, the Acrylamide market in Europe, particularly in Germany experienced notable fluctuations driven by various factors. In January, the market witnessed a continued decline in prices due to weak consumer demand, particularly from downstream industries like textiles and water treatment. High product inventories further exacerbated the negative sentiment, compounded by a 4.2% monthly drop in the prices of upstream Acrylonitrile. Additionally, rising crude oil prices, spurred by geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, contributed to the market dynamics.
In February, the prices of Acrylamide reversed course and increased in the German domestic market. Concerns over supply disruptions, including tensions in the Red Sea region and conflicts such as the Israel-Hamas tension, intensified worries about global oil supply, leading to a 10% increase in crude oil prices during the first two months of 2024. This was attributed to increased cost pressure from upstream raw materials. Moving into March, Acrylamide prices in the German domestic market continued to rise due to further cost pressure from upstream raw materials, increasing by 2.2% monthly.
Additionally, OPEC+ members reached an agreement to prolong voluntary output reductions, further impacting manufacturing costs. Despite this, inquiries from downstream industries remained subdued amid low consumption rates. Inflation in Germany softened in March, indicating a potential decrease in price pressures across the eurozone. Final figures from the Federal Statistics Office revealed that inflation in Europe's largest economy eased to 2.3%, driven by declines in food and energy prices. Overall, while the market conditions showed a slight improvement in March, overall sentiments remained suppressed. The discussions for Acrylamide FOB Hamburg settled at USD 1314/MT at the end of Q1 2024.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America
In the fourth quarter of 2023, Acrylamide prices in the USA exhibited mixed trends due to various factors. In October, prices rose due to high-priced imports, but inflation eased in November, fostering improved business conditions. Positive trends continued in December as inflationary pressures further abated. Increased demand from water treatment and related industries contributed to better business conditions, and major exporting nations raised selling prices due to higher production costs.
November witnessed increased consumer spending and improved market activities, enhancing overall economic conditions. Despite only moderate demand in downstream industries, consumer confidence in the US increased in November and December, signaling optimism about future business conditions. However, higher Acrylonitrile prices on the supply side increased manufacturing costs, prompting major exporting nations to raise their selling prices.
As of December 2023, the assessed prices of Acrylamide Powder CFR USGC were USD 1300/MT, representing a 3% decrease compared to the previous quarter and a significant 65% decrease compared to the same quarter last year. The Acrylamide market in North America faced challenges due to weak demand, bearish market sentiments, and uncertain business conditions, leading to a notable decrease in prices compared to the previous year.
APAC
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Acrylamide market in the APAC region experienced various factors influencing prices. Demand from downstream industries such as textiles, paper, and pulp remained on the upper side, leading to improved market conditions. However, slower manufacturing rates and the fragility of the economic recovery hindered overall industrial performance. Increased production costs, driven by higher prices of upstream raw materials like Acrylonitrile and Sulphuric Acid, contributed to the challenges faced. In China, significant changes in prices were observed, with an improved demand outlook and slight development in inquiries from domestic and overseas markets. The manufacturing sector saw a rebound in activity, reflected in the official Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index increase. However, factory-gate deflation continued, reflecting ongoing challenges in the economy's recovery from the post-pandemic downturn. Price analysis showed a 13% decrease compared to the same quarter the previous year, a 2% increase compared to the previous quarter, and a 1% price percentage comparison between the first and second half of the quarter. As of December 2023, the prices of Acrylamide FOB Ningbo in China were assessed at USD 1220/MT.
Europe
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the Acrylamide market in Europe demonstrated bearish sentiments, and prices declined throughout this period. In October, prices in Germany fell due to weak demand from industries, and Eurozone manufacturing production also declined, with new orders contracting significantly. Although there was a slight improvement in the manufacturing PMI, it indicated an ongoing decline in the sector. Supply chain operations eased due to weak consumer demand. November saw a further drop in prices in Germany, driven by sustained weak demand from downstream industries. Manufacturing activities continued to decline, despite a marginal improvement in the PMI. The supply chain further eased amid ongoing weak consumer demand. In December, prices in Germany continued to decrease due to persistent subdued demand. Downstream industries maintained weak consumer inquiries, leading to negative market sentiments. High product inventories and destocking activities by consumers were observed. Upstream Phenol prices dropped, and factory gate deflation persisted. Year-end holidays and destocking contributed to reduced industrial activity, with manufacturing companies slowing down or temporarily suspending operations.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
In the third quarter of this year, the Acrylamide market remained subdued, and the prices declined throughout the period. In the first month, due to a decline in demand across downstream industries like textiles and paper was registered. Weakened consumer demand, exacerbated by political tensions between the USA and China, disrupted container shipping since the product relies heavily on Chinese imports. The downstream textile and paper industries faced reduced demand, with fewer consumer inquiries observed. In August and September, the Acrylamide market continued to suffer from poor demand conditions and the influx of low-priced goods on the back of deteriorating consumer demand and ongoing USA-China tensions. Notably, the United States began importing more from Mexico than China for the first time since 2003, reflecting changing trade dynamics. Consumer inquiries remained weak, particularly with the end of the high-demand summer season. Market transactions remained sluggish, and limited product procurement was observed overall. Hence, the discussions for Acrylamide Powder CFR USGC settled at USD 1268/MT in July.
APAC
In the third quarter of 2023, the Acrylamide market in China demonstrated mixed sentiments, and the prices fluctuated throughout. Initially, market sentiments took a nosedive owing to reduced production costs and sluggish demand, resulting in a significant drop in prices. The manufacturing sector was under pressure, and the NBS manufacturing PMI consistently remained below the 50-point benchmark, pointing toward a contraction in factory activities due to a drop in new orders and export sales. The manufacturers were operating at a slower pace, whereas procurement was only on a need basis. In the midst of Q3, weak demand conditions continued to take a toll on the Acrylamide prices. Although a slight improvement in the manufacturing activity was registered, the production costs were declining week-on-week. Come September, and a positive shift was observed as the demand prospect noted growth in new orders, and the cost support from the upstream raw materials was observed amid higher prices of Acrylonitrile and Sulphuric Acid, influenced by rising crude oil prices. In September, China’s official manufacturing PMI crossed the 50-point threshold, pointing towards development in industrial activity amid government efforts to stimulate the economy. Hence the prices were assessed at USD 1200/MT in September.
Europe
In the third quarter of 2023, the Acrylamide market in Europe demonstrated mixed sentiments, and the prices fluctuated throughout this period. In the initial weeks of Q3, the inflationary pressure impacted the business activities in the region, and consumer demand remained weak amid uncertain economic conditions as high-interest rates took a toll on the business conditions. August marked a slight improvement in market sentiments, as there was a modest price increase attributed to a boost in demand from the downstream industries. However, the supply side was lacking amid low operating conditions among the manufacturing firms. Come September, Acrylamide prices in the domestic market increased slightly. This was due to marginal improvement demand and rising production costs driven, in part, by fluctuating natural gas and upstream Crude oil prices in Europe. The manufacturing activities were slow in the region as post the vacation season, the rebound in the market activities was poor, due to which the inventories of the product were low in the domestic market.
For the Quarter Ending June 2023
North America
The prices of Acrylamide showed a floating sentiment in the second quarter of 2023. In the month of April 2023, the price of Acrylamide decreased marginally due to low market demands and low inventory as the manufacturers operated on very low margins to fulfill the demands. The demand remained low due to high-interest rates and inflationary pressure in the region. In the month of May, the price of Acrylamide increased by 1.88 percent due to limited imports from China. The demand from the downstream textile, paper, and other end-use industries was on the lower edge, and slower consumer inquiries were registered. In the month of June, the prices declined by 6.3 percent as cost support from feedstock acrylonitrile and sulfuric acid remained negative, and the demand prospects from water treatment and textiles declined while from oil and gas industries improved. Inquiries reveal that international orders are showing a bearish trend due to inflationary pressures in Europe and a weak recovery in China. Prices of Acrylamide powder CFR USGC were settled at USD 1524/MT in the month of June 2023.
APAC
The prices of Acrylamide showed a floating sentiment in the second quarter of 2023. In the month of April 2023, the price of Acrylamide increased marginally due to low inventory stocks, positive price support from Sulfuric acid, and the increased market demands from downstream industries like oil & gas and treatment plants. Exports improved to European markets due to supply constraints in Europe. In India, the price of Acrylamide increased due to increased demand from downstream industries and increased energy prices, and a positive cost push from Sulfuric acid. In China, during the month of May, the price of Acrylamide decreased by 7.8 percent due to negative price support from feedstock and energy prices. The demand from the downstream textile, paper, and other end-use industries was on the lower edge, and slower consumer inquiries were registered. A similar trend was observed in India. In the month of June, the prices declined by 6.0 percent as cost support from feedstock acrylonitrile and sulfuric acid remained negative, and the demand prospects from downstream industries like textiles turned bleak. Inquiries reveal that international orders show a bearish trend due to inflationary pressures in Europe and a weak recovery in China. Prices of Acrylamide FOB Ningbo were settled at USD 1330/MT in the month of June 2023.
Europe
The prices of Acrylamide showed a floating sentiment in the second quarter of 2023. In the month of April 2023, the price of Acrylamide increased marginally due to low inventory stocks and the increased market demands from downstream industries like oil & gas and treatment plants. Inquiries reveal that supply-side shocks like labor shortages due to strikes significantly impacted the price of Acrylamide in Germany. Downstream PAM prices also increased following the trend of Acrylamide in April 2023. A similar trend was seen in the Netherlands. In the month of May 2023, there was a decline in the price of Acrylamide due to adequate inventories and imports from China and a negative cost push from the feedstock prices. The demand remained stable, and the supply situation improved. In the month of June 2023, the prices rose again due to increased demand from downstream oil and gas industries, water treatment plants etc. The feedstock prices continued to provide a negative cost-push, though. Inquiries with vendors reveal that the increased cost of Acrylamide is partly compensating the operation margins of the industrialists due to economic slowdown and inflationary pressures and keeping the industry running in such an uncertain environment. Acrylamide is a feedstock for Polyacrylamide polymer used in water treatment and hydraulic fracturing in the oil and gas industry.
For the Quarter Ending March 2023
North America
In the North American region, the Acrylamide market exhibited mixed market sentiments in the first quarter of 2023. In the first month of Q1, the pricing trend gained downward momentum due to weaker demand from the downstream paper and other end-use industries. In addition, the Lunar New Year in China has impacted its domestic consumption, and the manufacturers offered lower prices for importing countries. In the second month of Q1, the prices of Acrylamide inclined upward amidst strengthened market dynamics and increased procurement rates from the overseas markets. In the last month of Q1, the prices slipped in the US market owing to weaker cost support from raw materials and a weaker demand outlook from the downstream paper, pulp, and textile industries in the region. Throughout this quarter, the freight charges declined, and the offered quotes for Acrylamide Powder CFR USGC settled at USD 1610 per tonne at the end of Q1 2023.
APAC
In the Chinese domestic market, the pricing trend of Acrylamide upsurged in the first two months of Q1 2023. The overall price development is majorly attributed to the rebound in the restocking activities ahead of the Lunar New Year festivities. In the second month, the overall market prices increased further, backed by boosted production rates and an increased pace of inquiries from the downstream paper, pulp, and textile industries after the end of the festival in China. In the last month of Q1, the prices plummeted amid the dropping in domestic demand and built-up inventories in the region. Throughout the month, the cost support from the upstream Acrylonitrile has remained consistent; hence, stable raw materials prices were noted. Thus, the market prices of Acrylamide FOB Ningbo settled at USD 1490 per tonne at the end of Q1 2023.
Europe
In Europe, the market prices of Acrylamide showcased mixed market sentiments in Q1 2023. The overall market prices of Acrylamide surged in January, backed by positive cost support from the upstream Crude oil and active inquiries from the downstream paper and pulp industries in the region. In February, the prices of Acrylamide were stable as a balanced demand and supply outlook was observed in the region. Also, the domestic manufacturers maintained adequate inventories to cater to the downstream consumer demand. In the last month, the prices dropped owing to sluggish demand from the downstream paper, pulp, and textile industries. Throughout this month, the production cost declined due to lower TTF natural gas prices in the European region.
For the Quarter Ending December 2022
North America
Overall, the Acrylamide market in the North American region has observed a consistent bearish movement during the fourth quarter of 2022. As per the market experts, the US domestic market ends the year in a stronger downturn as the demand in the polymers sector has weakened amidst weak upstream cost pressure. The consistent hike in interest rates and rising inflation have enforced considerable uncertainties, which resulted in a drop in the PMI to the historical 31-month low in November 2022. Traditionally, the major consumer of US polymer supplies, China has struggled with the economic slowdown and COVID-related issues. As a ripple effect, the CFR USGC discussions for Acrylamide were assessed at USD 1367 per tonne during the quarter ending in December 2022.
Asia Pacific
The Acrylamide market in the Asia Pacific region has remained sluggish, and the trend traced a downward trajectory. This development is majorly attributed to inadequate demand that, further coupled with the increased supply and soaring price competitiveness amongst the major players in the regional market. The performance of the polymers market has remained subdued since the second half of 2022. At the same time, traditionally, during this period, the destocking practices in the far east Asian market, in response to the supply outlook, have improved significantly against the demand in the APAC region. As a ripple effect, the FOB Ningbo discussions for Acrylamide were assessed at USD 1180 per tonne during the end of the fourth quarter of 2022.
Europe
The Acrylamide market in the European markets has witnessed mixed sentiments during the fourth quarter of 2022. The market obtained a substantial gain in October, and the domestic outlook has sustained adequate recovery against the losses that occurred during the summer break. Although the gains were short-lived amidst the rising inflation and interest rates, consumer sentiments are more conservative than anticipated. In addition, the sanctions over the Russian energy supplies, coupled with the decision of the major manufacturers to reduce their operations at facilities and crackers to sustain the supply-demand outlook, have little to no impact across the value chain. As a ripple effect, the FD-Hamburg discussions for Acrylamide were assessed at USD 1398 per tonne in December 2022.
For the Quarter Ending September 2022
North America
Overall the Acrylamide market in the North American region prevailed over its earlier bearish sentiments. In the third quarter, the offers at the US spot markets eased by significant margins in the first two months, whereas in the final month, the prices witnessed a slight rebound. A major market source stated that the producers and downstream facilities have started restocking the inventories by the end of the second quarter to avoid any disruptions caused during hurricane season. Currently, the spread of the feedstock and Acrylamide (imported from overseas markets) is observing a negative trend. Thus, the CFR USGC discussion for Acrylamide assessed USD 2200 per tonne during the quarter ending September 2022.
Asia Pacific
During the quarter ending September 2022, the Acrylamide market in the Asia Pacific region witnessed mixed sentiments that vary across the sub-regions. In the northeast Asian region, the market has observed slight bullish sentiments due to the weakened performance of major economies, further coupled with COVID curbs and power rationing in China. Overall, these repercussions resulted in an increment of +5.03% in the offers throughout the quarter, and FOB Qingdao discussions for Acrylamide averaged USD 2675 per tonne in September. At the same time, the trend in the Southeast Asian region remained suppressed, besides bearish sentiments hovering over the spot markets for the majority period during the third quarter.
Europe
The Acrylamide market has remained weak across the European region. This trend in the domestic market was majorly attributed to the long summer holidays that dominated the market sentiments for most of the third quarter of 2022. During this term, suppliers and downstream producers are inclined to entertain long-term contractual inquiries, and the spot market remains muted. Although the market reopened in September with mixed expectations amongst the market participants, at the start of the month, the producers destock current inventories with minimal negotiation at the spot markets, and the pressure increased gradually among the market players.
For the Quarter Ending June 2022
North America
USA Acrylamide costs were stable throughout Q2 2022 due to the steady demand pattern amidst disrupted supply fundamentals. The supply of raw materials gradually eased in Q2 2022 as plant operating rates reached regularity. Buyers adopted stability in the market and witnessed indulging in finding approach and purchased cargoes only on a need basis to restrain the stress of piling inventories. Demand has reduced since April owing to the slowdown in market activities. Moreover, the high inflation rate diminished the Acrylamide export demand in June, ending the Quarter. Acrylamide prices showed a marginal month-on-month decline of 1% in the USA in June.
APAC
Acrylamide prices declined in India in Q2 2022 because of suspended manufacturing activities in APAC since Q1 of 2022 and diminished demand for the product in the Asian Countries. In addition, traders revealed the surplus of inventories due to crippled offtakes in the market that compelled them to adjust their offers to sustain the average margin. The hampered regional operational activities impacted market sentiments amid a rise in COVID 19 cases in various APAC countries. Moreover, the depreciation in the rupee against the US dollar amid the high inflation rate also affected the Acrylamide price in India. Acrylamide prices have shown declination throughout the second Quarter of 2022.
Europe
During the Second Quarter of 2022, the Acrylamide market in Europe showed a stable trend. Limited availability of Acrylamide coupled with normalized production rate in the regional market conclusively impacted the price trend of Acrylamide in Europe. Some factors backing the Acrylamide prices are a disruption in the supply chain due to ongoing geopolitical tension between Russia and Ukraine and depreciation of the European currency (Euro) against the US dollar amid high inflation rates. Moreover, the consistent onset of the European natural gas crisis compelled manufacturers to restrain their productions, which further tightened the market for Acrylamide during Q2 of 2022. The price of Acrylamide showed a stable trend in June with a marginal month-on-month decline of 1%.
For the Quarter Ending March 2022
North America
Acrylamide values in the USA showcased a stable trend throughout Q1 of 2022 due to the steady demand pattern amidst prevalent supply. The supply of raw materials gradually eased in Q1 2022 as plant operating rates reached normalcy. Buyers purchased cargoes only on a need basis to restrain the inventory pile. However, demand reduced since January owing to the slowdown in market activities. Acrylamide export demand also turned feeble due to high freight rates across several oceanic trade routes. In February, FOB Acrylamide prices were assessed at USD 5565 per MT FOB Louisiana in the USA.
Asia Pacific
Acrylamide prices rose because of suspended manufacturing activities in China in Q1 of 2022 and extended rise in energy values in Asian Countries. In addition, traders highlighted the unavailability of material that compelled them to adjust their offers to sustain their margin. Moreover, port congestions at container terminals such as Ningbo led to delay in supplies from China amid a resurgence of Covid 19. As Acrylamide is majorly consumed in wastewater treatment, Acrylamide prices in late- February witnessed a consistent rise in the demand for wastewater treatment chemicals in the regional market. Acrylamide price was assessed at USD 2730/MT FOB Ningbo in China during March.
Europe
Acrylamide market in Europe showcased a stable trend in Q1-2022. Limited availability of Acrylamide was witnessed due to which production rate was relatively normalized in the regional market of Europe. Some of the factors backing the abrupt rise in Acrylamide prices have been, disruption in the supply chain due to ongoing geopolitical tension between Russia and Ukraine and elevated freight charges across the US-Europe and Asia -Europe trade routes due to the shortages of containers. Moreover, in January, extended natural gas crisis in Europe compelled manufacturers to curtail their production which further tightened the market for Acrylamide during Q1 2022. The price of Acrylamide was assessed at USD 3230/MT FOB Hamburg in Germany in March.
For the Quarter Ending December 2021
North America
Acrylamide values in USA fluctuated in a narrow range in Q4 in lieu of the stable demand pattern amidst prevalent supply. Supply of raw materials gradually eased in Q4 as plant operating rates reached normalcy. Buyers adopted a wait and see approach and purchased cargoes only on need basis to restrain the inventory pile. Demand further loomed in December owing to the slowdown in market activities due to the holiday season. Acrylamide export demand also tuned feeble and easing freight cost further assisted in the fall in its prices. FOB Acrylamide prices were assessed at USD 5440 per MT in USA in December.
Asia
In Q4 2021, Acrylamide costs rose because of suspended manufacturing activities in China in Q3 and extended rise in energy values, putting an unsustainable burden on supplies to India. In addition, traders revealed about the unavailability of material that compelled them to adjust their offers, to sustain their margin. As Acrylamide is majorly consumed in clarification of wastewater, contrary to the demand pattern of other polymers, Acrylamide prices in late-December continued to gain following the consistent rise in the demand for wastewater treatment chemicals in the regional market. Acrylamide prices have surged by nearly 25% in India since early-November. Acrylamide prices are expected to continue tracing an upward curve as the demand for the product from water treatment segment in unlikely to slowdown in the near term.
Europe
Acrylamide market in Europe showcased mixed sentiments in Q4 2021. Availability of Acrylamide remained nearly same with respect to the previous quarter. However, high energy values continued to put forth an upward pressure upon its prices. As extended natural gas crisis in Europe forced players to curtail their productions which further tightened the market of Acrylamide during Q4. Demand for the product remained stable from majority of end use industries. There was nearly 3-4% fluctuation in its prices in Q4.
For the Quarter Ending September 2021
North America
During Q3 of 2021, hike in the values of Acrylamide was witnessed in North American owing to the rise in the prices of feedstock Acrylonitrile. Acrylonitrile is a derivative of Propylene and Ammonia, surge in the prices of upstream soared the prices of Acrylonitrile that consequently fueled Acrylamide prices in Q3. In August, due to the arrival of the Ida hurricane in the Gulf Coast of the United States, several manufacturers imposed a turnaround at their production facilities as a part of the contingency plan. Cornerstone declared a shutdown at its Acrylonitrile production unit in Louisiana ahead of the Ida hurricane for around 10-14 days. Curtailment in the production activities along with the disruption in the supply chain resulted into the steep climb in the prices of Acrylamide in September. Moreover, steady demand from downstream sectors including oil and gas, water treatment and polymers along with its constrained availability also supported its price hike throughout the quarter.
Asia Pacific
In Q3 2021, rise in Acrylamide prices was observed in the region backed by the disruption in the supply chain of feedstock Acrylonitrile. India imports most of the Acrylonitrile from US and China thus severe climate calamity in the US as well as port congestion in China due to the shutdown of Ningbo Port for 2 weeks in August caused feedstock scarcity. It resulted into the proliferative trajectory of Acrylamide prices during the period. In addition, high freight charges and upbeat demand from downstream sectors exerted an additional burden on the Acrylamide market in the region. In India, Ex-Mumbai Acrylamide prices settled at USD 2541.19/MT in September, with an increment of USD 332.74/MT since July.
Europe
During the third quarter of 2021, Acrylamide market in Europe showcased mixed sentiments. In the first half, an improvement in the availability of Acrylamide was witnessed as the production rate was quite high but in the latter half there was an abrupt rise in the prices of Acrylamide. Some of the factors backing the abrupt rise in Acrylamide prices are disruption in the supply chain due to the arrival of Ida hurricane in the US and elevated freight charges across the US-Europe and Asia -Europe trade routes due to the shortages of containers. Moreover, since September the onset of natural gas crisis in Europe compelled manufacturers to curtail their productions which further tightened the market of Acrylamide during Q3 2021.
