For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
During the third quarter of 2024, the US AES market experienced mixed pricing dynamics. Prices initially declined in July, followed by a bearish market trend, before rising again in September. These fluctuations were largely driven by changes in Fatty Alcohol prices, which directly impacted production costs for AES. In September, industrial production fell by 0.3%, and chemical production decreased by 0.25%, further affecting AES availability in North America. Procurement activities for AES were moderate, with limited inquiries from downstream markets. Despite the North American surfactant sector achieving record highs, demand for AES fell short of expectations.
However, reports indicated an improvement in new orders throughout September, a trend expected to continue into October. Manufacturers have relied on depleting backlogs to maintain operations, with the pace of backlog clearance reaching its highest level for the year to date. Overall, while demand dynamics remain uneven, the increase in new orders provides a glimmer of optimism for the AES market as it moves into the final quarter of the year.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES) market in the APAC region experienced a significant increase in prices, driven by various key factors. The market saw a notable 30% surge in prices compared to the same quarter last year, with a 13% increase from the previous quarter in 2024. This upward trend was primarily influenced by a combination of factors such as rising production costs, including an uptick in feedstock prices like Ethylene Oxide and Fatty Alcohol. Additionally, challenges in the palm oil supply chain, increased freight charges, and moderate to high demand from the downstream FMCG industry played crucial roles in pushing prices higher. In Malaysia, palm oil prices surged by approximately 11% in late September 2024, following a 3.8% decline in production to 1.82 million tonnes. Further seasonal declines were anticipated, leading to a domestic shortage of Fatty Alcohol and increasing prices. In Indonesia, palm oil production fell by 2% in August 2024, exacerbating the supply issues. The government's decision to raise the palm oil content in biodiesel from 35% to 40% increased demand, further pushing palm oil prices up globally. Exports of palm oil products also dropped significantly, from 3,385 thousand tonnes in July to 2,241 thousand tonnes in August 2024, fuelling the rise in AES prices across the global market. Specifically focusing on India, the market witnessed the most significant price changes, with a 10% increase between the first and second half of the quarter. This price volatility can be attributed to seasonal factors, demand fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the European Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES) market saw a significant price increase, driven by several key factors. Rising production costs, particularly a 10% hike in feedstock prices like Ethylene Oxide and Fatty Alcohol, were major contributors. The surge in Fatty Alcohol prices was largely linked to ongoing challenges in the palm oil supply chain. In Malaysia, palm oil prices rose approximately 11% in late September 2024, following a 3.8% decline in production to 1.82 million tonnes. This trend is expected to worsen with anticipated seasonal declines, leading to a domestic shortage of Fatty Alcohol and further driving up prices. Similarly, Indonesia experienced a 2% decrease in palm oil production in August 2024, exacerbating supply issues. The Indonesian government's decision to increase the palm oil content in biodiesel from 35% to 40% has heightened global demand, further pushing prices up. Exports of palm oil products also saw a significant drop, falling from 3,385 thousand tonnes in July to 2,241 thousand tonnes in August 2024, which contributed to the upward trend in AES prices across Europe. Demand from the downstream FMCG sector remained moderate to high, supporting this pricing momentum. In terms of demand dynamics, the domestic market for AES remained firm, particularly within the surfactant sector. Market insights indicated that the surfactant industry performed well during this period, boosting demand for AES. However, new orders plummeted, leading to rapid depletion of backlogs and placing pressure on production across the region. This resulted in a slight decline in factory employment levels and reduced purchasing activity, as companies focused on inventory management. The downturn in the eurozone's industrial output reflects broader economic challenges, contrasting with the relatively stable demand for AES in sectors reliant on these products.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In the second quarter of 2024, the North American market for Alkyl Ether Sulphates (AES) has witnessed a pronounced upward trajectory in prices, driven by a complex interplay of factors. One significant driver has been the unusually high temperatures experienced across the region, which have led to increased demand for surfactants in cleaning products. This surge in demand is particularly notable due to heightened outdoor activities during the season, resulting in elevated levels of dirt and grime that require effective cleaning solutions.
Adding to the price pressures, the cost of essential raw materials such as Ethylene Oxide has escalated. Plant shutdowns and production limitations of Ethylene Oxide have constrained the supply of AES throughout North America, exacerbating the upward trend in prices. These supply disruptions have been further compounded by ongoing port congestions, which have hindered export opportunities and exacerbated domestic supply-demand imbalances.
Despite these challenges, domestic demand for AES in the United States remained resilient. The warmer weather in June 2024 stimulated increased activity within the surfactant industry, reflecting consumer behaviour and economic vitality. Economic indicators, including a 0.2% rise in consumer spending according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis, underscored this uptick in economic activity. Meanwhile, the stability of the Personal Consumption Expenditures (PCE) price index following a slight increase in April suggested ongoing inflationary pressures, with a moderate year-over-year rise through May. In conclusion, the second quarter has marked a period of significant price escalation for AES in North America, driven by robust domestic demand amid supply constraints and economic dynamics shaped by seasonal factors and raw material costs.
APAC
The second quarter of 2024 witnessed a mixed market situation in Alkyl ether sulphates (AES) prices across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. Throughout this period, several critical factors contributed to the downward pressure on market prices. Firstly, a significant depreciation in the prices of feedstock Ethylene Oxide, which saw a reduction of approximately 4.2% in the East Asian market, directly impacted production costs. Additionally, the depreciation in prices of another key feedstock, Fatty Alcohol, by approximately 1.2% across East Asia further facilitated lower production costs for AES. The overall supply chain remained stable, albeit with sporadic bottlenecks due to congestion in major shipping routes, such as the Strait of Malacca, which occasionally caused delayed shipments. In India, the country experienced the most pronounced price fluctuations. Despite the generally balanced supply-demand equation, the Indian market faced a cumulative price decline due to several intertwined factors. The peak summer season traditionally drives up demand in the downstream soap and detergent sectors, but this year, the market saw an excess supply due to untimely arrivals of imports, resulting in stockpiles and subsequent price drops. Comparing the second quarter of 2024 with the same quarter last year, there was a staggering 48% reduction in AES prices, underscoring the persistent bearish market sentiment. From the preceding quarter in 2024, prices saw a modest uptick of 4%, attributed to a brief recovery phase. However, a comparative analysis between the first and second halves of this quarter revealed a 4% price drop, mirroring the overarching declining trend. Concluding the quarter, the price of Alkyl ether sulfates (AES) Ex-Taloja in India stood at USD 568/MT. Overall, the pricing environment in Q2 2024 has been predominantly negative, significantly influenced by depreciating feedstock costs, supply chain fluctuations, and seasonal demand variances. This persistent decline reflects an industry grappling with overcapacity and subdued economic conditions.
Europe
Throughout the second quarter of 2024, the market for Alkyl Ether Sulphates (AES) experienced a bullish trend marked by rising prices, driven by a confluence of significant factors. Despite Ethylene Oxide, a key feedstock for AES production, seeing a consistent decline in prices, the market for AES remained buoyant due to robust consumer sentiments. The warmer weather during this period amplified demand for cleaning products and surfactants, as outdoor activities increased and necessitated more effective cleaning solutions.
Internationally, there was a notable uptick in inquiries from markets such as the US and Europe, which further fuelled the upward trajectory of AES prices. This heightened demand was met with challenges stemming from increased costs of essential feedstocks like Ethylene Oxide and crude oil. These cost pressures escalated production expenses for AES manufacturers, contributing significantly to the overall rise in prices.
Moreover, global supply chain disruptions added another layer of complexity to the market dynamics. Issues such as elevated freight rates and logistical bottlenecks disrupted supply flows, leading to constrained availability of AES in the market and exacerbating the upward pressure on prices.
In summary, despite Ethylene Oxide prices declining, the second quarter of 2024 saw AES prices increase due to strong consumer demand driven by seasonal factors and heightened international interest. These demand pressures, combined with rising production costs and global supply chain disruptions, underscored the resilience and complexity of the AES market during this period.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
Throughout the initial quarter of 2024, the North American Alkyl Ether Sulphates (AES) market showcased a range of trends, reflecting diverse influencing factors. The supply of AES remained steady, with no reported disruptions in production facilities. However, demand for AES remained subdued, primarily attributed to sluggish performance in downstream sectors like surfactants and personal care. Additionally, the market felt the impact of global economic deceleration and persistent inflation, leading to reduced demand from international markets in Europe and Asia. These elements, coupled with ample inventory levels, exerted downward pressure on prices.
Among North American nations, the United States observed significant AES price fluctuations during the quarter. The US market trended bearishly, propelled by decreasing costs of key feedstock materials such as Ethylene Oxide and Fatty Alcohol. The decline in Ethylene prices notably influenced the downturn in AES prices in the US. Furthermore, anticipation of prolonged high interest rates within the country dampened domestic AES demand.
In summary, the North American AES market encountered challenges in the form of subdued demand, global economic slowdowns, and declining feedstock prices throughout the first quarter of 2024. These factors collectively contributed to a bearish market sentiment, particularly evident in the United States.
Asia
During the first quarter of 2024, the Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES) market in the APAC region experienced a period of stability in pricing. The market situation remained steady, with a balance of supply and demand. However, various factors did influence the prices during this period. Firstly, there was an abundance of low-cost cargoes available from the exporting East Asian market, leading to increased supply levels. Additionally, the demand for AES from the downstream soap and detergent industry was moderate due to the off-season caused by the peak winter season. Lastly, the expected rise in production costs resulting from the increasing crude oil prices had an impact on the pricing trend. Across Asia, the prices of AES exhibited a bearish trend during the quarter due to the high supplies from the East Asian market. Fortunately, there were no reported plant shutdowns during this period. The trend, seasonality, and correlation of prices across Asia remained stable, showing no significant changes compared to the previous quarter.
Europe
During this quarter of 2024, prices of AES across Europe witnessed mixed market situation. During the initial month January 2024, prices of AES witnessed a depreciation of approximately 3.4%. Initially the European AES market was driven by low demand from downstream surfactant industries due to the prevailing winter season. However, during the starting of February 2024 till the end of March 2024, the European AES market received cost support from rising prices of Ethylene Oxide which appreciated by 2.5% during the months of February and March 2024, and the gradual revival of demand attributed to the arrival of spring season. Significant challenges in the supply chain system were also present during this time frame, due to strikes by Union Workers which resulted in limitations in transportation and logistics. This also may have contributed to the increments in the prices of the product. Normalization of freight charges at the end of this quarter also contributed to the positive procurement sentiments amongst the merchants based overseas and eventually turned export conditions somewhat favorable, despite the persisting crisis at the Red Sea.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America
The Alkyl Ether Sulphates (AES) market experienced a predominantly bearish trend in the fourth quarter, marked by a nearly 3% decline in prices.
This downward trajectory was primarily influenced by sluggish demand from the downstream soap and detergent industry in North America. Additionally, the depreciation in prices of the key feedstock, Ethylene Oxide, by over 6%, contributed to the bearish market conditions for AES. The market was further influenced by the declining prices of Crude Oil, which experienced a significant drop of almost 16%. This, in turn, played a role in alleviating production costs within the industry. Despite marginal improvements observed towards the end of December 2023, driven by positive purchasing sentiments during the festive season, these efforts proved insufficient to significantly transform the AES market scenario.
Exports to the Canadian and Mexican markets remained subdued, contributing to the overall slowdown in the North American detergent and soap industry. The supply chain faced challenges due to adverse weather conditions, resulting in limitations in transportation and logistics. These challenges impacted the efficient movement of goods, creating additional hurdles for the AES market during this period.
APAC
The market for Alkyl Ether Sulphates (AES) experienced a bearish trend with prices depreciating by around 9%. This decline was primarily driven by the diminishing prices of the key feedstock, Ethylene Oxide, which itself experienced a depreciation of approximately 2%. In the APAC region, the demand from the downstream soap and detergent industry remained subdued during the winter season, exerting notable pressure on the AES market. Although there was a marginal uptick in prices in the latter half of November 2023 due to the peak festive season, which improved purchasing sentiments in the downstream FMCG industry, this positive influence did not significantly impact the overall market situation of AES. The market faced challenges with delayed cargo arrivals, contributing to an oversupplied market. This situation was exacerbated by the declining prices of upstream Crude Oil, which witnessed a global depreciation of almost 16%. The delays in cargo arrivals were primarily attributed to adverse weather conditions in the exporting European, US, and Chinese markets, where logistical and transportation challenges prevailed. Furthermore, the demand from the downstream soap and detergent industry remained subdued throughout the fourth quarter, coupled with depreciating prices of another feedstock, Fatty Alcohol.
Europe
Throughout the fourth quarter of 2023, Alkyl Ether Sulphates prices in the European market followed a bearish trend. This was primarily attributed to the devaluation of feedstock, with Ethylene Oxide and Fatty Alcohol experiencing depreciations of 5% and 7%, respectively, thereby alleviating production costs. Additionally, the global depreciation of upstream Crude Oil by over 16% further contributed to the reduction in production costs. The European market, overall, experienced a deceleration in the detergent and soap industry. Towards the end of December 2023, there were slight increments, driven by positive purchasing sentiments during the festive season. However, these improvements were marginal. Exports to the Eurozone market faced challenges due to worsening weather conditions, limiting logistics and transportation and impeding the flow of inventories. Towards the conclusion of 2023, prices witnessed an uptick as shipping charges increased, a result of conflicts at the Red Sea leading to heightened freight charges. Despite this, the demand from the downstream soap and detergent industry remained lackluster throughout the last quarter of 2023, primarily due to the prevailing peak winter season.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
The AES (Alkyl Ether Sulphate) market in the USA recovered in the third quarter of 2023 due to increased demand from downstream businesses. Sellers raised prices in July due to low inventory and high demand. The domestic supply of AES has been low because businesses have been operating at lower rates due to excess inventory. The prime reason for the increment in the prices of AES was attributed to a shortage of the feedstock ethylene oxide. This shortage is due to a force majeure declaration at Dow Chemical's ethylene oxide plant in Plaquemine, Louisiana, which caught fire on July 15, 2023. Following August, the prices of the feedstock Ethylene Oxide increased, contributing to the elevated AES production costs. Furthermore, as per FRED Economic Data, the Producer Price Index (PPI) increased by 2% in the USA during August from the previous month has further supported the uptrend during September. Moreover, towards the end of September 2023, demand from the downstream industry started to strengthen as abnormal precipitation patterns led to recordings across North America.
Asia
The AES (Alkyl Ether Sulphate) market in India remained at a high level during the third quarter of 2023, compared to the second quarter. This was due to improved inquiries from the downstream surfactant industry throughout the quarter. In July, the price of AES in India showed a significant upward trend, which was attributed to the rising cost of the base material, ethylene oxide, and the increase in demand. Additionally, the downstream surfactant industry saw an increased volume of inquiries during the same period, which further contributed to the market dynamics. A similar trend was observed in the Indian market in August, as the price of the upstream product, palm oil, also showed an upward trend. This further contributed to the surge in AES prices during August.
Following the previous market sentiments, the escalation in feedstock prices led to a surge in production costs for traders. Over time, the demand for AES from the downstream surfactant industry has been high in the domestic market due to the upcoming festival season. This, combined with the increase in feedstock fatty alcohol and upstream palm oil prices, led to a price hike in AES during September.
Europe
The AES (Alkyl Ether Sulphate) market in Europe experienced mixed trends in the third quarter of 2023. Prices declined in July due to lower demand from the downstream surfactant industry including detergents, shampoos, and personal care products. As per the data, the market sentiments were influenced by Germany's economic recession, leading consumers to be cautious about making significant purchases, resulting in only essential need-based purchases being made during this timeframe. However, prices gradually increased in August as economic conditions improved and trading activities across the Eurozone picked up. Additionally, the prices of feedstocks benzene and sulfuric acid also increased due to higher demand from the domestic market in September. The increment in the upstream Naphtha and Crude oil prices has led to increased production costs for the product, thus supporting the price trend in Germany. The persistent inflation and high interest rates in the European region have caused an impact on the production costs which has further compelled the producers to raise the price of AES during this timeframe.
For the Quarter Ending June 2023
North America
During the second quarter of the year, Alkyl Ether Sulphate prices experienced a bearish market trend. This decline in prices can be attributed to subdued demand from the downstream surfactant industry and ample inventories in the US market. Moreover, the feedstock prices of Ethylene Oxide and Fatty alcohol also followed a downward trajectory, further influencing the Alkyl Ether Sulphate market trend during this quarter. The decrease in the price realization of Ethylene oxide in the domestic market can be attributed to various macroeconomic factors, including restrictive interest rates and tightening credit conditions resulting from regional banking turmoil. Additionally, the upstream Palm oil prices also witnessed a decline, mainly due to temporary export restrictions imposed on exporting countries, particularly Indonesia. These restrictions directly impacted the supply of cooking oil within the country, contributing to the overall situation. Furthermore, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics;, the manufacturing PMI index showed a declining trend, reaching 321.064 in May, and 309.771 in June. These figures indicate a contraction in the manufacturing sector in the US.
Asia
During the second quarter of the year (Q2), the Alkyl Ether Sulphate market in the Asia-Pacific region experienced a downward trend. This decline in price can be attributed to lackluster demand from the downstream surfactant industry, coupled with an abundant supply of the product in the market, leading to a slump in its cost in South Korea. Additionally, the reduced prices of feedstock Ethylene oxide and Fatty alcohol also contributed to the ease in SLES prices. This change was a consequence of economic slowdown, inflationary pressure, and rising interest rates, which have dampened consumer purchasing activities. Moreover, upstream Palm oil prices experienced a decline in Malaysia during Q2, as production rates increased significantly with substantial trading activities. This decline in Palm oil prices had a further impact on the cost of Alkyl Ether Sulphate. Furthermore, the reduced demand from the Chinese market also influenced the overall price decline across the Asia-Pacific region, as consumers in the region were making need-based purchases.
Europe
Alkyl Ether Sulphate experienced mixed sentiments in the European market during the second quarter of 2023. The price fluctuations of its feedstock, Ethylene, and Fatty Alcohol, followed a similar trend during this period, with an initial increase and a subsequent decline by the end of the quarter. The demand from the downstream surfactant industry in the region remained stable to weak. The cost of Alkyl Ether Sulphate declined by the end of the quarter, primarily due to weak cost support from upstream Palm oil. However, European businesses faced challenges posed by inflation and higher interest rates, which resulted in a slowdown in consumer spending and heightened unemployment fears. These market uncertainties contributed to the gloomy demand from the downstream surfactant industry. Despite a slight reduction in the annual inflation rate in the Euro area from 6.1% in May 2023 to 5.5% in June 2023, as reported by Eurostat, the statistical office of the European Union, the inflation rates remained relatively high. Consequently, consumers remained hesitant in their purchasing decisions. Overall, the European market for Alkyl Ether Sulphate encountered a complex set of factors during the second quarter, influencing both its pricing and demand dynamics.
For the Quarter Ending March 2023
North America
The North American market faced challenges during Q1 2023, primarily due to prolonged stagnancy in market activities and rising inflation. Throughout the quarter, the Alkyl Ether Sulfate (AES) market experienced fluctuations, and regular price revisions were observed due to changing market supplies amidst slowly improving demand with the arrival of the summer season. As per the data, the downstream personal care products market showed overall stable demand for the product, and traders were optimistic about future demand for the product as summer approached. However, during the month of March, the collapse of two major banks in the USA also contributed to dullness in market activities.
Asia
Asian market remained lackluster in demand for Alkyl Ether Sulfates during the first quarter of 2023, where multiple price revisions were observed. As per the data, the price of Alkyl Ether Sulphate (AES) in India fell during the final month of the quarter by 1.7%, despite the expected seasonal demand upswing. The Asian market was bearish, with a moderate supply of the product and low demand in the regional market. The availability of ample products and cheaper imports have contributed to the price trend. The banking crisis in the USA also impacted global economic activities, further lowering demand for AES. As a result, the prices of AES in Asia continued to follow a downward trend during the second half of the quarter, with no significant changes in relevant factors impacting the final prices.
Europe
The European market has been competing with high inflation and sluggish economic activities, which have been causing major economies such as the UK to edge closer to a recession. During the quarter, the demand for AES was low to moderate, and multiple price revisions was noted due to factors such as imports and falling freight charges at major trade routes. However, the ongoing winter season played a crucial role in low demand from the domestic personal care products market, which later instilled an optimistic outlook in the market towards the end of the quarter. Further, the demand fundamentals for the product started improving by the end of the quarter, as traders started procuring for arriving summer season in the region.
For the Quarter Ending December 2022
North America
The fourth quarter of 2022 had a strong start for the North American Alkyl Ether Sulfates market; its value increased significantly at the beginning of the quarter, only to decline as the quarter's end drew near. The market value of Alkyl Ether Sulfates fluctuated in response to changes in downstream demand from different industries. Due to the unsteady market scenarios for the downstream detergent industry during the quarter, the demand for Alkyl Ether Sulfates in the domestic market fluctuated. Furthermore, variable production costs and varying upstream expenses had an impact on the growth of the Alkyl Ether Sulfates market throughout the quarter, which also affected its prices in the region.
APAC
Amidst weak downstream demand and lower upstream costs, the price of Alkyl Ether Sulfates in the Asia-Pacific Region steadily decreased during the fourth quarter of 2022. As the downstream detergent industry underperformed in terms of industrial output and market performance throughout the quarter, the demand for Alkyl Ether Sulfates declined, resulting in dropped Alkyl Ether Sulphate prices. Additionally, the cost of producing Alkyl Ether Sulphate decreased as energy costs fell throughout the time under consideration, which eventually decreased the market value of the product. Moreover, as the destocking of existing inventories occurred in December, manufacturers were more focused on clearing off their shelves even at a lesser value, which further supported the price fall of Alkyl Ether Sulfates.
Europe
The European Alkyl Ether Sulphate market had a great start to the fourth quarter of 2022; its value rose significantly at the start of the quarter before falling as the end of the quarter got closer. Alkyl Ether Sulfates' market value changed in reaction to variations in downstream demand from various sectors. The demand for Alkyl Ether Sulfates in the domestic market fluctuated during the quarter because of the shaky market conditions for the downstream detergent industry. The expansion of the Alkyl Ether Sulphate market throughout the quarter was also impacted by variable manufacturing costs and fluctuating upstream expenses, which had an impact on the market's overall pricing.
For the Quarter Ending September 2022
North America
Alkyl Ether Sulfates prices in North America increased throughout the third quarter of 2022 because of higher feedstock prices which were exacerbated by supply problems. The market value of palm oil as a raw material rose during the quarter, driving upstream costs for the manufacturing of Alkyl Ether Sulphates and resulting in a hike in its price. The increasing demand from the downstream detergent and surfactant industries has also increased the price of Alkyl Ether Sulphates. Furthermore, rising energy prices, port congestions, vessel bunching, and yard occupancy disrupted the supply chain, which eventually caused the limited availability of the material in the country.
APAC
During the third quarter of 2022, Alkyl Ether Sulfates' price value in the Asia-Pacific region revealed mixed sentiments, supported by shifting feedstock prices. Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES) pricing pattern, which was increasing in July, abruptly decreased in August and regained momentum in September. AES's value in the domestic market fluctuated due to the market value of the feedstock palm oil, which caused the upstream cost to remain unstable throughout the quarter. Additionally, the downstream demand from the detergent and surfactant sectors, which had been climbing in July and September, abruptly fell in August, which caused the market sentiments of Alkyl Ether Sulfates to move in the same direction.
Europe
The third quarter of 2022 saw an increase in the price of Alkyl Ether Sulfates in the European market due to rising feedstock costs. The market value of palm oil as a raw material increased throughout the quarter due to supply issues, which increased upstream expenses to produce alkyl ether sulfates and raised its price. Alkyl Ether Sulphates are now more expensive due to the rising demand from the detergent and surfactant industries upstream. Additionally, the supply chain was affected by rising energy prices, port backlogs, vessel bunching, and yard occupation, ultimately leading to the country's limited supply of materials.
For the Quarter Ending June 2022
North America
During the second quarter of 2022, the price of Alkyl Ether Sulfates in North America continued to rise because of the rising feedstock value. Due to supply issues, the market value of Palm Oil as a raw material increased throughout the quarter, which propelled the upstream cost involved in Alkyl Ether Sulfates production, hence causing the surge in its price. The price of Alkyl Ether Sulfates has also increased due to the high demand from downstream detergent and surfactant industries. The price of Alkyl Ether Sulfates was further driven up by rising energy costs, increased freight costs, and clogged ports due to tensions surrounding the Russia-Ukraine war.
APAC
The price value of Alkyl Ether Sulfates showcased mixed sentiments in the Asia-pacific region during the second quarter of 2022, backed by fluctuating feedstock prices. The pricing trend of Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES), which was incrementing in April, suddenly dropped in May and continued its downward motion till June. As feedstock palm oil's market value fluctuated throughout the quarter, it kept the upstream cost unstable, causing AES's flickered value in the domestic market. Furthermore, the downstream demand from detergent and surfactant industries which were rising till April suddenly started plunging in May and June, causing Alkyl Ether Sulfates market sentiments to proceed accordingly.
Europe
During the second quarter of 2022, prices for Alkyl Ether Sulfates decreased steadily in Europe in contrast to North America. Weak demand from end-user industries such as detergent and surfactant was the leading cause of this decline. The market value of Alkyl Ether Sulfates also declined because of sluggish consumer spending. Additionally, the stores were overflowing with excess stock, and the supply rate remained steady, which made the costs of Alkyl Ether Sulfates in the European market even more absurd. Altogether, weak offtake and consistent supply flow were the main reasons behind the plummeting price value of Alkyl Ether Sulfates (AES) in the domestic market.
For the Quarter Ending December 2021
North America
Rising on high raw material cost and inflationary pressure, AES prices remained high throughout the quarter across US market during this period. Demand fundamentals for the product form the downstream surfactant segment remained stable despite pandemic related uncertainties strike global market. In addition, raw material price remained a matter of concern for most of the regional players, as imported cargoes were either getting cancelled or delayed due to container unavailability at Asia-US trade route. However, price remained buoyant and heard hovering around USD 1520/MT during December in USA.
Asia
Asian market kept on oscillating on the back of raw material scarcity amid logistics related issues. The price of AES effectively rose in Indian market during this timeframe, due to limited raw material availability and firm demand from the local market. Due to scarcity of raw material palm kernel oil, AES prices kept on rising during October and November, as demand for palm oil were high from other segments. Major surfactant and detergent manufacturers were compelled to raise their product costs, while logistical issues have exacerbated the overall dynamics. AES price hovered around USD 2071/MT during October in India. Meanwhile Chinese market faced other issues like rise in coal prices during monsoon season, and later implementation of dual energy policy in the country. Thus, AES also remained buoyant in Chinese market during this timeframe.
Europe
Surfactant sector maintained overall firmness stability during this timeframe too, as the domestic market was healing from prolonged pandemic related uncertainties. Furthermore, enormous surge in natural gas price increased the overall production cost for several commodities in the regional market. Meanwhile, low imports of raw material from Asia remained a matter of consideration, as it was leading to consistent hike in its prices. Furthermore, high freight cost and congestion across Asian market exacerbated the overall pricing dynamics of AES in the European market.
For the Quarter Ending September 2021
North America
During the third quarter of 2021, the prices of Alkyl Ether Sulfates escalated at an exponential pace in the North American region. The skyrocketing freight cost followed by the delay in the shipping of chemical commodities from Asia led to the increment in the pricing of AES in Q3 2021. A substantial hike in the demand for surfactants was seen during the quarter by the downstream cosmetics and personal care, and detergents industry across the region.
Asia
The demand for Alkyl Ether Sulfates surged from the downstream industries including cosmetic and personal care, textile, and detergents during the third quarter of 2021 in Asia. Constant pressure from the feedstock scarcity amid stable to firm demand from the domestic market, prompted the prices of AES to rise effectively in Q3 2021. Major surfactant and detergent manufacturers revealed that they had to increase their product prices due to the shortage of raw materials amid high demand, while logistical issues also amplified the overall situation. It was observed that the skyrocketing freight cost affected the prices of several imported commodities in the country. In India, the EXW witnessed a major increment from USD 1512/MT to USD 1668/MT within the quarter.
Europe
The European market experienced a marginal increase in the prices of Alkyl Ether Sulfates during Q3 2021. Increased shipping charges and a halt in the supply of upstream feedstock from the Asian countries resulted in the steep rise in the prices of AES in Q3. A hike in the demand was observed from the downstream cosmetic and personal care industry across the region. Additionally, the surfactant and detergent market grew significantly during this quarter as well.
