For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices in North America during Q3 2024 experienced consistent increases, with the USA witnessing the most significant price changes. Market prices were primarily influenced by tight supplies stemming from production constraints and reduced imports. The high demand from downstream industries, such as agrochemicals and surfactants, further supported the price surge.
Key feedstocks, Methanol and Sulphuric acid, faced supply challenges, further tightening DMS availability. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, including port congestion and raw material shortages, added pressure to prices. The quarter also saw elevated freight charges and increased production costs due to high feedstock prices, contributing to the overall price uptrend. Delays at key ports increased shipping times and costs, exacerbating the supply constraints. Prices of Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) rose sharply due to tight supply, driven by domestic production disruptions and limited imports from Asia amid port congestion. Despite challenges, the market remained bullish, with prices steadily climbing throughout the quarter.
In the USA specifically, Dimethyl Sulphate prices saw a notable increase of 10% from the previous quarter. The market exhibited a positive trend, with prices consistently rising. The quarter ended with Dimethyl Sulphate DOP priced at USD 1760/MT DEL Los Angeles, reflecting the ongoing upward trajectory in pricing.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the Dimethyl Sulphate market in the APAC region witnessed a significant uptrend in prices, driven by a confluence of factors. Tight supply conditions, robust demand from downstream industries, and high feedstock prices, particularly sulphuric acid and methanol, played a pivotal role in pushing prices upwards. The agrochemical, surfactant, and water treatment sectors reported rising demand, boosting market sentiment. Additionally, while upstream crude oil prices remained volatile, decreased ocean freight rates from China to India offered some relief, yet overall supply constraints continued to influence price stability. As market participants anticipate potential stabilization in demand due to the monsoon season, the outlook remains cautiously optimistic. The overall trend in the region indicated a positive pricing environment, with prices showing a 1% increase from the previous quarter. India, experiencing the most substantial price changes, recorded a notable uptick in Dimethyl Sulphate prices, with the quarter-ending price standing at USD 519/MT CFR Hazira. This surge reflects a continuous upward trajectory in pricing, showcasing a favorable market outlook characterized by increasing demand and limited availability, setting the stage for a promising period ahead.
Europe
In Q3 2024, the Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) market experienced a mixed pricing pattern influenced by various demand and supply factors across the European region. Demand from downstream industries, particularly agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and dyes, fluctuated during the quarter, impacting overall consumption levels. Economic indicators from Europe and specific countries also played a significant role in shaping demand for DMS-based products. On the supply side, production challenges emerged as unexpected plant shutdowns and maintenance issues at DMS production facilities temporarily limited availability, contributing to upward price pressures. Additionally, fluctuations in the costs of key raw materials methanol and sulfuric acid affected production expenses, further influencing product pricing. Port congestion in Europe created logistical hurdles, impacting the timely import and export of DMS, which altered the balance between supply and demand. Specific factors within the downstream industries also shaped market dynamics. In the agrochemical sector, demand was influenced by crop yields, weather conditions, and government agricultural policies. The pharmaceutical industry's consumption of DMS varied with drug development timelines and regulatory changes, while demand from the dyes industry was affected by textile production levels and prevailing fashion trends. Overall, while some sectors experienced rising demand that supported prices, others faced challenges that contributed to a more complex and mixed pricing landscape throughout Q3 2024.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the North American Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) market experienced a bullish pricing environment, driven by several significant factors. Heightened raw material costs, sustained domestic demand, and a surge in export activities were pivotal in elevating prices. The downstream demand, particularly from the paint and coating sectors, surged due to robust vehicle sales and overall industrial expansion. This quarter saw a steady increase in input costs, driven by elevated feedstock sulphuric acid prices and heightened energy prices, further exacerbating production costs. Additionally, geopolitical tensions, notably the Hamas-Israel conflict, contributed to increased crude oil prices, which along with disrupted global oil supplies, led to a surge in container shipping rates.
Focusing exclusively on the USA, the market witnessed the most significant price changes. The overall trend for DMS in the USA was characterized by a persistent upward trajectory, influenced by heightened seasonal demand and optimistic market sentiments. The correlation between increased manufacturing activities and the uptick in DMS prices was evident. Compared to the previous quarter, Q2 2024 recorded a 2% increase, reflecting steady growth. Moreover, there was an 8% price rise from the first to the second half of the quarter, underscoring the intensifying demand as the summer procurement period approached.
Conclusively, the quarter-ending price for DMS stood at USD 1650/MT DOP DEL-Los Angeles in the USA, marking a robust period of price increments driven by both external and internal market dynamics.
APAC
In Q2 2024, the pricing environment for Dimethyl Sulphate in the APAC region has experienced a notable upward trajectory. This quarter was marked by a confluence of critical factors that have exerted upward pressure on market prices. Elevated raw material costs, especially for feedstock sulphuric acid, have amplified production expenses. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and disruptions, including plant shutdowns in significant petrochemical hubs, have curtailed supply chains. Seasonal spikes in demand, particularly in the downstream paint, coating, and adhesive industries, have further strained availability, pushing prices higher.
India has observed the most pronounced price shifts within the APAC region during this period. The overall trends indicate a robust correlation between heightened demand and limited supply. The burgeoning construction sector and a surge in real estate activities have escalated the need for construction materials, including Dimethyl Sulphate. This period has also seen intensified procurement efforts amid tight market conditions, reflecting a consistent bullish sentiment.
Seasonality has played a pivotal role, with increased demand during peak construction and agricultural periods exacerbating supply constraints. Compared to Q1 2024, prices have surged by 8%, underlining the persistent upward momentum. The first half of Q2 witnessed a comparative 3% increase in prices against the latter half, underscoring continuous demand pressures.
Europe
In the second quarter of 2024, the European Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) market saw a notable increase in prices due to several impactful factors. Key among these was a rigorous maintenance schedule at European smelters, limiting DMS availability and causing supply constraints. This scarcity was compounded by tightened supplies of sulphuric acid, a crucial raw material. Concurrently, strong demand from the agrochemical sector during seasonal planting activities exacerbated the supply-demand gap. The economic landscape, marked by inflation and higher production costs linked to rising crude oil prices, also contributed significantly to the uptick in DMS prices. In Germany, which witnessed the most pronounced price shifts, the quarter displayed a clear upward trajectory. This rise was primarily driven by heightened demand from the agrochemical industry amid the planting season, alongside inadequate inventory levels. As Q2 2024 concluded, DMS prices in Germany settled at elevated levels, reflecting a predominantly positive pricing environment shaped by constrained supply and robust demand. This period underscored the market's sensitivity to logistical and economic factors, highlighting significant price inflation and tight market conditions.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The first quarter of 2024 was characterized by fluctuating prices for Dimethyl Sulphate in the North America region. Several factors influenced the market prices during this period. In the USA, Dimethyl Sulphate prices experienced a decline in February 2024, primarily due to weakened consumer demand. The downstream agrochemical sector saw subdued demand, leading to oversupply in regional markets and subsequent price reductions. However, demand from the detergent industry remained steady, supported by improving business confidence. Overall, the market sentiment was negative, with elevated inventory levels adding to downward price pressure.
In January, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in the USA increased due to rising demand from the downstream fertilizer and pharmaceutical sectors. The Biden administration's investment in domestic fertilizer further boosted demand, signaling potential investment opportunities. Additionally, strong sales in the domestic and US markets for pharmaceuticals contributed to the upward trend in prices. There was a mix of positive and negative price changes throughout the quarter, driven by factors such as demand from different industries and supply disruptions.
In conclusion, the latest quarter-ending price for Dimethyl Sulphate DOP DEL-Los Angeles in the USA was USD 1520/MT. The pricing environment for Dimethyl Sulphate in the North America region was influenced by both positive and negative factors, resulting in fluctuating prices.
APAC
In the APAC region, the pricing environment for Dimethyl Sulphate in Q1 2024 was positive overall. The market witnessed significant price changes, influenced by various factors, including supply disruptions, increased demand from downstream industries, and fluctuations in feedstock prices, along with higher prices upstream for naphtha.
Specifically in India, there was a notable increase in Dimethyl Sulphate prices. This surge can be attributed to increased demand from the agricultural and pharmaceutical sectors. Factors such as increased agricultural exports, government initiatives promoting healthier food alternatives, and strong sales in the pharmaceutical market drove demand in these industries. Furthermore, supply constraints and disruptions, such as farmer protests, contributed to the price surge in India. The availability of Dimethyl Sulphate was moderate, leading to a reduction in inventory levels and upward pressure on prices. Additionally, positive growth in India's manufacturing sector further supported demand for Dimethyl Sulphate in the construction sector.
Overall, the pricing trend for Dimethyl Sulphate in Q1 2024 was bullish in the APAC region, with India experiencing the most significant price changes. The latest quarter-ending price stood at INR 38600/MT of Dimethyl Sulphate CFR Hazira in India.
Europe
The first quarter of 2024 was characterized by fluctuating prices for Dimethyl Sulphate in Europe. Several factors influenced the market prices during this period. In Europe, Dimethyl Sulphate prices experienced a decline in February, largely due to weakened consumer demand. The downstream agrochemical sector saw subdued demand, leading to oversupply in regional markets and subsequent price reductions. However, demand from the detergent industry remained steady, supported by improving business confidence. Overall, the market sentiment was negative, with elevated inventory levels adding to downward price pressure.
In January, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in Germany increased due to rising demand from the downstream fertilizer and pharmaceutical sectors. Additionally, strong sales in the domestic and European markets for pharmaceuticals contributed to the upward trend in prices. There was a mix of positive and negative price changes throughout the quarter, driven by factors such as demand from different industries and supply disruptions.
In conclusion, the pricing environment for Dimethyl Sulphate in the European region was influenced by both positive and negative factors, resulting in fluctuating prices.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America
The North American DMS market displayed a mixed price scenario in Q4 2023, initially decreasing in October and November before experiencing a modest increase towards the quarter's end.
The decline was driven by weakened downstream demand from industries like surfactants and pesticides, along with easing freight costs and sufficient regional supply. The slight uptick in prices in late Q4 was influenced by seasonal demand shifts, particularly in antifreeze applications during winter months, and production adjustments as some producers reduced output in response to earlier lower prices.
Stabilizing methanol prices in Q4 helped moderate production costs, limiting significant price fluctuations. The presence of multiple producers in the region maintained high competition, contributing to price sensitivity. Import activity remained moderate, aligning imported DMS prices with domestic prices. Adequate inventory levels throughout the quarter prevented substantial price spikes.
Asia Pacific
In Q4, Asia Pacific showcased a diverse pricing trend. Indian Dimethyl Sulphate experienced declines akin to Europe, while Dimethyl Sulphate prices in China witnessed price stabilization or slight increases. Variations in demand across industries and countries played a pivotal role in the differing price movements within the region. Import reliance emerged as a key driver, influencing prices in countries where dependence on imports from other regions was significant. Volatile feedstock costs, marked by fluctuations in raw material prices, impacted production costs and contributed to overall price variations across Asia Pacific. The mixed trend in prices underscored the complex interplay of demand dynamics, import dependencies, and raw material fluctuations within the diverse economic landscape of the Asia Pacific region.
Europe
The European DMS market experienced a decline in Q4 2023, with prices decreasing by 5-10% compared to the previous quarter, marking a reversal from earlier significant increases in the year. The downturn was primarily driven by weakened demand from downstream industries such as surfactants, dyes, and pesticides. Additionally, easing freight costs and ample supply across the region contributed to the overall decrease in DMS prices. Increased competition among European producers played a role in keeping prices in check during the quarter. The impact on industries varied, benefiting downstream users in various sectors facing cost pressures due to lower DMS prices. However, DMS producers likely experienced challenges to profitability, depending on individual production costs and hedging strategies.
Regional variations persisted, with prices generally higher in Western and Central Europe compared to Eastern European markets. This discrepancy can be attributed to factors like transportation costs, where regions further from production facilities experienced higher prices. Local supply and demand dynamics, especially in areas with concentrated DMS-dependent industries, led to more significant price fluctuations. Furthermore, currency fluctuations, particularly the weakening of the Euro against the US dollar, impacted import prices.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
Dimethyl sulfate (DMS) prices in the North American region fluctuated during Q3 2023, following a similar trend to prices in other regions around the world. Prices initially declined due to weak demand and moderate supply, but they stabilized and even increased slightly in the later part of the quarter due to increased demand and rising feedstock prices. The US Federal Reserve's aggressive interest rate hikes in an effort to combat inflation also contributed to the uncertain economic outlook and weighed on demand for DMS. The prices of feedstocks for DMS production, such as methanol and dimethyl ether, began to rise in the later part of Q3 2023. This increased the cost of production of DMS, which put upward pressure on prices. Dimethyl Sulphate prices in the US increased by an average of 3% during September and were assessed at USD 2260 per MT DEL Louisiana due to rising feedstock prices and increased demand from downstream industries.
Asia Pacific
Dimethyl sulfate (DMS) prices in the Asia Pacific region followed a similar trend to prices in other regions around the world during Q3 2023, declining initially due to weak demand and moderate supply, before stabilizing and increasing slightly in the later part of the quarter due to increased demand and rising feedstock prices. Demand for DMS from downstream industries such as fertilizers and pharmaceuticals began to increase in the later part of Q3 2023 in the Asia Pacific region. This was due to a number of factors, including the start of the agricultural season and increased production of pharmaceutical products. After the conclusion, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in China were assessed at USD 475 per MT.
Europe
Dimethyl sulfate (DMS) prices in the European region fluctuated during Q3 2023, following a similar trend to prices in other regions around the world. Prices initially declined due to weak demand and moderate supply, but they stabilized and even increased slightly in the later part of the quarter due to increased demand and rising feedstock prices. The prices of feedstocks for DMS production, such as methanol and dimethyl ether, began to rise in the later part of Q3 2023 in the European region. This increased the cost of production of DMS, which put upward pressure on prices. Dimethyl Sulphate prices declined by an average of 4% during July, as weak demand and a surplus of inventory weighed on the market.
For the Quarter Ending September 2023
North America
During the third quarter of 2023, Dimethyl sulphate prices in the North American region experienced a notable decline, influenced by several key factors that affected the market dynamics. These factors included limited queries, low demand, abundant inventory levels, the availability of cheaper imports, and weak demand from downstream industries. Dimethyl Sulphate prices in the US market witnessed a significant decrease throughout the third quarter, primarily due to limited demand in the domestic market. Market participants also reported a decline in demand from the international market, contributing to the downward price trend. The domestic production of Dimethyl Sulphate remained firm during this period, resulting in abundant inventory levels both in the domestic market and at port. Simultaneously, imports from the Asian market were available at competitive prices, particularly from countries like China, South Korea, and others. The affordability of these imports helped drive down the prices in the North American region. Freight and energy markets returned to normalcy and had a limited impact on final pricing negotiations. Demand from downstream agrochemical industries remained weak, resulting in limited procurement activities in the region. On the other hand, consumption rates from pharmaceutical industries remained steady with limited changes in the demand pattern. As of the end of the third quarter in 2023, Dimethyl prices had declined in the North American region, reflecting the complex interplay of these market dynamics.
APAC
During the third quarter of 2023, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in the Asia-Pacific region experienced a decline, influenced by various factors that affected the market dynamics. Notably, limited queries, ample inventories, low downstream demand, and the availability of cheaper imports contributed to the price decrease. The Asia-Pacific region witnessed a limited number of queries and ample inventory availability, both of which were key factors contributing to the decline in Dimethyl Sulphate prices. Additionally, low downstream demand further added to the downward price pressure. The availability of competitively priced imports also played a role in this pricing trend. The imports of Dimethyl Sulphate from countries like China, Japan, and others into India faced weakness, with the market sentiment in the Asian region declining due to limited queries. While demand from the pharmaceutical sector remained stable, procurements were consistent with limited new orders, resulting in stagnant queries among market participants. It's important to note that ample inventory levels were reported by market participants as queries remained unchanged from downstream buyers. Furthermore, the demand from downstream industries such as agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and personal care remained limited. As of the end of August 2023, Dimethyl Sulphate prices were assessed at USD 540/MT in the Indian domestic market.
Europe
In the penultimate quarter of 2023, Dimethyl Sulfate prices have continued to decline, following the trend of the previous quarter. However, the intensity of the decline has slowed in this quarter. The dismal performance of the construction industry continued into this quarter, and thus, the consumption rates of Dimethyl Sulphate eased in the past three months, which impacted the final prices. The procurements were limited, and the declining pricing trend in the Asian market further eased the import prices reaching the European shores. The UK witnessed declining output of the construction industry, mirroring the trend of the whole Eurozone, and thus, amid ample supplies and declining demand, Dimethyl Sulphate prices declined sharply in the quarter.
For the Quarter Ending June 2023
North America
During the second quarter of 2023, the Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) market in the United States experienced a bearish trend, resulting in declining prices and weak demand from downstream industries. In May 2023, DMS prices decreased by 4% on a monthly basis, driven by cheap imports reaching the US shores. Steady imports from APAC countries contributed to softened pricing dynamics, reflecting the overall market sentiment in the Asian region. The supply in the US market remained moderate, with imports from China, South Korea, and other countries being on the cheaper side, further easing prices. The freight and energy markets reached normalcy and had a limited impact on final negotiations. In the domestic market, DMS prices were plunging, and operating rates in manufacturing plants remained weak due to a lack of fresh orders from buyers. Manufacturers produced DMS only on immediate demand as downstream buyers were cautious in their purchases, leading to surplus inventories. The bearish market situation for US Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) during Q2 2023 was further impacted by port shutdowns at the Port of Long Beach and Los Angeles. These shutdowns likely disrupted the supply chain and caused logistical challenges, contributing to the moderate supply situation in the market. After Q2 2023 ended, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in the US were assessed at USD 1270 per MT on a FOB basis.
APAC
During the second quarter of 2023, the Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) market in India experienced a bearish trend, primarily driven by the dynamics of imports and demand from downstream industries. In June 2023, DMS prices declined by 0.9% on a monthly basis due to steady import prices and consistent demand pressure from downstream industries. Imports remained stable as exporting nations witnessed ample demand, and the freight market also remained stable during this period. Similarly, in May 2023, DMS prices decreased by 1.4% on a monthly basis, attributed to the influx of cheap imports from neighboring APAC countries. Pricing dynamics softened, reflecting the overall market sentiment in the Asian region. Freight and energy markets also reached normalcy, exerting limited impact on the final negotiations. The demand for DMS from downstream pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals industries showed optimism in both months, with ample new queries and active procurements. However, overall demand was considered moderate. On the currency front, the Indian Rupee appreciated by 0.22% against the United States Dollar in June but depreciated by 1.15% in May 2023. After the conclusion of Q2 2023, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in India were assessed at USD 1125 per MT on a FOB basis
Europe
During Q2 2023, the demand for Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) displayed a mixed trend. While the downstream flame retardants industry showed stable demand, the consumption of polycarbonates remained lackluster due to the underwhelming performance of the construction industry. LANXESS, a key player in the chemical sector, reported these market dynamics amid challenges posed by high inflation rates, declining overall demand, and weak cost support from upstream Brent crude oil. Furthermore, the freight market declined throughout the quarter and added an element of relief for market participants. As trading activities slowed down in Europe, shipping costs eased, reducing the overall cost burden for transportation and making DMS more accessible to buyers in the region. However, weak demand sentiment meant limited active procurements. As of June 2023 ending, Dimethyl Sulphate prices in Europe were assessed at USD 1355 per MT on an FD basis.
For the Quarter Ending March 2023
North America
In the North American region, Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices deescalated during the first quarter of 2023 on the back of sluggish market fundamentals. According to market participants, decreasing consumption of downstream pesticides, dyes, and surfactants led to weak demand from the domestic and overseas markets, easing the demand pressure on the DMS market. However, operating rates remained weak in the manufacturing plants as there were no fresh orders from buyers. In the US domestic market, manufacturers produced DMS only on any immediate demand as downstream buyers were purchasing cautiously. Additionally, no surplus inventories were reported, therefore no supply pressure over the product. Consequently, the price of Dimethyl Sulphate in the US settled at USD 2660/MT as of March 31.
Asia- Pacific
During the first quarter of 2023, Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices in the Asia-Pacific region demonstrated an overall downward trend. The DMS market had a negative start to the quarter due to a decline in procurement from downstream industries such as pesticides, dyes, and surfactants industries. Purchasing activities from Asian and European countries toned down amid weakened demand. Furthermore, domestic merchants reported a depletion in their inventory level while still meeting the few orders on an urgent basis. Firms that produce DMS decreased their prices and even dropped their operating rates. Therefore, market transactions remained muted, with inadequate support to the DMS market.
Europe
In the European market, Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices remained on a downswing during the first quarter of 2023, along with inappreciable demand from downstream pesticides, dyes, and surfactants industries in the region and limited instances of new orders. Despite the decline in prices, some DMS manufacturers continued to operate at a loss, which led to production cuts. Also, the supply of DMS remained limited owing to decreased production capacity, which led to low inventories in the domestic market. Moreover, market players were reported to have chosen a cautious stance and to be keeping an eye on the short-term market outlook.
For the Quarter Ending December 2022
North America
Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices have witnessed mixed sentiments in the USA market during the fourth quarter of 2022. During October, prices increased slightly due to high inflation and volatile energy prices. Demand from the downstream agrochemical, dyes and allied industries has been stable in the regional market. Although, during November and December, DMS, both domestically produced and imported materials, have been priced lower. The decline in prices has been attributed to weak demand dynamics from downstream agrochemical, dyes, and allied industries, while material availability has remained strong amid firm imports on the USA shores. Meanwhile, feedstock Sulphuric acid and Methanol prices have dropped, which weighed down the prices of DMS in the regional market.
Asia- Pacific
Prices of Dimethyl Sulphate showed fluctuation in the Asian market during the fourth quarter of 2022. In China, during the first month of Q4, DMS prices raised, backed by the increased demand and inadequate inventory level. In addition, feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid prices increased, resulting in the high production cost of DMS in the domestic market. However, during the last two months of Q4, DMS prices decreased, supported by the weak demand dynamics amid soft consumer sentiment caused by the slow performance of the downstream agrochemical, dyes industry, and covid lockdown, while ample product availability, leading to the price drop of DMS in the domestic market.
Europe
Prices of Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) dropped in the European market throughout the fourth quarter of 2022 as downstream demand remained weak while material availability improved throughout the quarter. Dimethyl Sulphate imports from Asia improved in European ports as the freight charges declined sharply while the demand dropped in the Asian market. In addition, energy (Natural gas) prices stabilized in the regional market after the turmoil in Q3, which softened the production cost of DMS. Meanwhile, demand from the downstream dyes, perfumes, and agrochemicals, along with other competitive industries, remained subdued due to sluggish buying sentiment and the slow growth of the key industries.
For the Quarter Ending September 2022
North America
In the USA, Dimethyl Sulphate prices constantly increase during the third quarter of the year. The significant price drop has been witnessed due to a fluctuation in the feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric Acid values and stable to weak demand from downstream industries. Since the beginning of the Russia- Ukraine war, the West has been under constant threat of a recession, and the speculations around a US recession intensified in Q3 as the inflation rates soared while consumer sentiment weakened substantially. The constant threat of a recession meant weak consumption rates of dyes, agrochemicals, and other downstream products of Dimethyl Sulphate. Hence, as a result, prices of Dimethyl Sulphate were assessed at USD 3265/MT during September 2022.
Asia- Pacific
Dimethyl Sulphate prices showed a mixed trend in the Indian market during the third quarter of 2022. During July, DMS prices increased by 1.6% due to the improving demand from the downstream agrochemical and dyes industries. However, during August, Dimethyl Sulphate dropped by 2.9% as the weak cost pressure from the feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid prices. The downstream market has weakened, and fewer orders were observed from the downstream agrochemical and other industries. The downstream market players were more cautious amid global economic challenges in buying goods and followed a wait-and-see approach. Although, during September prices are slightly rebound during September owing to the high feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid prices. In addition, with the onset of the festive season in India, the demand fundamentals are likely to strengthen in the Indian domestic market. Dimethyl Sulphate Ex- Mumbai Prices were assessed at USD 788/MT during September 2022.
Europe
Dimethyl Sulphate (DMS) prices have continuously declined in the European region during the third quarter of 2022 as the weak cost pressure from the feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid prices. The primary factor for the price decline was the cheap imports from Asian countries like South Korea, Japan, and others. Although, domestic production remained under pressure due to the high production cost as the energy prices drive the operating costs. On the other side, demand from the downstream dyes, agrochemical, and allied industries have sluggish amid the mounting inflation rate in the European market. Furthermore, the supply chain remained under pressure as Europe faced turmoil from the port congestion coupled with a labor strike. Hence, as a result, prices of DMS dropped by around 3-4% during September.
For the Quarter Ending June-2022
North America
Due to the supply shortage, the prices of Dimethyl Sulphate were reported to be higher in Q2 of 2022. In addition, surging feedstock Natural Gas and coal prices negatively impacted the price trend in the North American region. The prices were boosted by tight supplies and the prospect of rising demand from the downstream derivative market. Furthermore, low inventories among the ports and healthy markets in Southeast Asian and European regions. Prices surged on the higher-level cues from high upstream values, affecting production rates. Supply chain disruption and bullish energy values coincided with high prices and margins. Feedstock Natural Gas prices rose with accelerating Henry Hub prices. Despite of increment in production cost, the average selling prices of the product also increased with strong demand from the downstream pharmaceutical sector.
Asia Pacific
In the Asia-Pacific region, the prices of Dimethyl Sulphate have witnessed mixed sentiments in the second quarter of 2022. In April, Dimethyl Sulphate prices were hiked by 3.6% in the Indian market. In addition, raw material Methanol and Sulphuric acid prices are escalated due to low imports and rising production cost, which has begun to ease across the domestic market. Furthermore, traders indicated that production in China had been halted amidst war, and pandemic outbreaks induced a severe shortage of raw materials. Overall demand from the end-user pharmaceutical and agrochemical amidst seasonal offtakes has remained strong. However, in May, the prices fell by nearly 3.2% due to rising production rates and quiet demand. Overall, the inventory level in the mid-quarter has been primarily elevated, which has coincided with supply disruption. Although, the prices were rebound in June due to the improved demand from the domestic market.
Europe
In Europe, Dimethyl Sulphate showed a positive market sentiment in the second quarter of 2022. In addition, Disruption in supply/demand dynamics also surged the spot prices on the back of rising values in Northeast Asia and Northwest Europe. Also, Dimethyl Sulphate costs in the domestic market are growing with a demanding lift and deficient stockpiles. On the other hand, rising raw materials Methanol and Sulphuric acid have continuously impacted the Dimethyl Sulphate market. Moreover, in June, Germany’s major raw material Methanol producers are planning for the usage of Natural Gas by allowing energy companies to pass on cost increases. Bullish energy and utility costs in Europe forced the producers to increase the prices of Petrochemicals. Contract prices of Dimethyl Sulphate also surged due to elevated demand for pharmaceuticals and agrochemical industries coupled with limited supply in the region.
For the Quarter Ending March 2022
North America
In the first quarter of 2022, Dimethyl Sulphate market sentiments in North America remained mixed. Prices rose at the start of the quarter, then seesawed afterwards. Following the high cost of feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric Acid, DMS prices increased in January. Due to the low production rate, there were insufficient inventories in the regional market to meet the firm demand pattern of Dimethyl Sulphate in the regional market. In contrast, the prices marginally dropped in February 2022. The increase in supplies and weak trading activities contributed to the downward trend, however prices again revived in March 2022. Dimethyl Sulphate DOP Del USWC (USA) prices were assessed at USD 2345/MT during March 2022.
Asia-Pacific
In Q1-2022, Dimethyl Sulphate prices showcased varied sentiments in Asia-Pacific region. Due to the high price of feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid in the region, manufacturers of DMS increased its prices due to high production cost. The low production rate caused lack of inventories in the regional market that failed to meet domestic requirements. Furthermore, high freight charges due to the container shortage resulted in the supply shortfall in the Indian market. However, in the mid of the quarter, prices of DMS in the Asia-Pacific region weakened. The drop in the prices was attributed to ample supplies and weak trading activities. Prices of Dimethyl Sulphate Ex-Mumbai were assessed at USD 842/MT, while CFR Hazira were evaluated at USD 791/MT during March 2022.
Europe
Dimethyl Sulphate prices in Europe continued to rise during the first quarter of 2022. High prices of feedstock Methanol and Sulphuric acid, and regional supply shortage, had a considerable effect on production rates and operational costs. In early Q1, Dimethyl Sulphate prices rose by nearly 2% in the European region. Furthermore, solvent's demand from downstream pharmaceutical and dyes industries increased in Q1. In addition, with high energy prices in the European region, specific production units reduced their running rates which lessened the availability of the product in the European market.
For the Quarter Ending December 2021
North America
Due to a supply shortage, the price of Dimethyl Sulphate was reported to be on the higher side in Q4. Prices for Dimethyl Sulphate have been on the rise, with recent prices reaching USD 3010/MT Ex-Works FOB Texas in December. Dimethyl Sulphate demand in the pharmaceutical and solvent industries is also expected to increase by the end of Q4 2021.
APAC
The price of Dimethyl Sulphate increased marginally in the APAC area this quarter, boosted by increased demand from the domestic market following the lifting of pandemic-related restrictions in the country. In India, rising raw material costs have had a negative impact on a few goods, including Dimethyl Sulphate. Feedstock Methanol and sulphuric acid prices rose in October as a result of low imports and higher production costs, but prices have already begun to fall across the worldwide market. Traders also stated that production halts in China and other nations resulted in a significant shortage of raw materials needed in the pharmaceutical and dye industries. As a result, during December, the price hovered at INR 63270/MT CFR Hazira.
Europe
Following a steady rise in the previous quarter, market sentiment for Dimethyl Sulphate dropped in the fourth quarter of 2021. Improved upstream Sulphuric Acid supply, as well as a gradual increase in Crude Oil production, are largely responsible for this shift in market sentiment. Furthermore, the quarter average price for Dimethyl Sulphate in the Germany CFR Hamburg was assessed at USD 2710/MT in the last month of Q4 2021.
For the Quarter Ending September 2021
North America
The domestic market of Dimethyl Sulphate remained strong in the North American region during Q3 2021 on the back of the consistent demand from downstream pharmaceuticals, chemical, and textile industries. An increment in the supply of upstream Sulfuric Acid was observed during this quarter due to improved refinery utilization in the US. Increased Supply of Dimethyl Sulphate across the region may result in a price decline in the upcoming months.
Asia
The domestic market price of Dimethyl Sulphate witnessed a decent rise across the Asia Pacific region in the 3rd quarter. In the Indian market, Dimethyl Sulphate prices witnessed marginal improvement in the month of July, bolstered by improved demand from the downstream markets after ease in pandemic-related restrictions in the country. Dimethyl Sulphate price in India was last assessed at USD 662 per MT in September. Asian manufacturers were heard gradually revising their prices under optimism of the forthcoming festive season, while current demand from dye, pharma, and agrochemicals segments is literally modest.
Europe
The overall market outlook of Dimethyl Sulphate showcased mixed sentiments in the third quarter of 2021 across the European region. Domestic manufacturers gradually revised their prices from July under optimism of the forthcoming festive season. The prices of energy products (total) rose 0.7% over August and energy crisis posed another challenge among the European producers during the quarter. Increased freight cost and constrained availability of the raw materials further impacted the pricing trend of Dimethyl Sulphate across the region.
