For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
During the entire fourth quarter of 2024, the U.S. Magnesium Powder for both the grades oxide and stearate market exhibited an upward trend with a steady drop witnessed in the last two months influenced by a mix of supply chain disruptions, seasonal demand shifts, and global factors.
October saw a continued rise in import prices, driven by increased demand for excipients in food and pharmaceutical tablet formulations, combined with higher shipping costs from Asia. U.S. port challenges, particularly in New York, labor strikes, and delays exacerbated logistics issues, further raising costs. Strategic stockpiling and robust export activity, alongside rising feedstock costs for Stearic acid, also added to the price pressure. Additionally, global disruptions in Ukraine, the Middle East, and crude oil prices intensified these price hikes.
In November, import prices trended downward due to increased imports from China, driven by competitive production costs and a weaker yuan, which made Chinese exports more cost-effective. High domestic inventories, lower-than-expected demand from the pharmaceutical and food sectors, and improved logistics contributed to price pressures. However, market sentiment remained cautious as fluctuations in crude oil prices continued to influence production costs.
By December, the market showed a persistent decline in import prices, driven by weak demand from key downstream sectors, including preservatives. Elevated buyer inventories and subdued trading activity, along with increased competition from Chinese imports, contributed to a bearish market outlook for Magnesium Stearate.
Asia Pacific
During the entire fourth quarter of 2024, the Magnesium Powder food grade oxide and stearate market in China experienced a notable downward trend, particularly in China across the Apac region with a modest rise at the beginning of the quarter While feed grade continued to remain on the southerly side. In October, prices surged due to severe supply constraints and strong demand. A typhoon disrupted shipping operations, causing delays and increasing freight costs, while downstream pharmaceutical, chemical, and excipient sectors ramped up procurement ahead of seasonal production requirements. The market's pressure intensified due to a limited supply of feed stearic acid, further straining availability. Additionally, the depreciation of the Chinese yuan against the U.S. dollar raised import costs, benefiting traders through improved margins but limiting product availability. Major producers faced reduced stock levels, impacting both domestic and international markets.
By November, however, export prices began to decline as demand from key sectors like pharmaceuticals, personal care, and industrial applications slowed. Despite high feedstock costs, suppliers focused on competitive pricing to counteract diminished foreign orders, leading to aggressive destocking measures that exacerbated the oversupply situation. This oversupply combined with weak downstream absorption capacity drove prices down further. This trend continued until the final weeks of December marking an overall muted trading dynamic for all the grades. This oversupply situation contributed to a pessimistic market outlook, highlighting the need for strategic actions like production cuts or demand stimulation efforts.
Europe
Throughout Q4 2024, Germany's Magnesium Powder market, including both oxide and stearate grades, showed a fluctuating trend, with prices initially increasing before experiencing a decline toward the end of the quarter. October saw rising import prices, driven by growing demand in the food and pharmaceutical industries, coupled with elevated shipping costs from Asia. Additionally, logistical issues in major German ports, including delays and disruptions, contributed to higher overall expenses. Strategic stockpiling and export activity, alongside rising feedstock costs, further intensified the upward price pressures. However, geopolitical factors, such as the ongoing situation in Ukraine and fluctuations in crude oil prices, added further strain to the market. In November, import prices began to decrease as imports from China drops. The end of the quarter saw continued price drops due to low demand from key sectors, including pharmaceuticals and food additives, excess inventory, and increased competition from Chinese exports, leading to a bearish market outlook for Magnesium oxide and stearate grade in Germany as suppliers continued to focus on clearing their inventories at lower prices across the region. Overall, the market trended on the southerly side during the entire quarter with market transactions being weak as quarter ends.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America:
In Q3 2024, the North American Magnesium Powder market maintained a significant upward trajectory for both the oxide and stearate grades, reflecting an overall balanced pricing environment.
Various factors influenced market prices, including steady demand from key industries like construction and pharmaceuticals, consistent manufacturing activities, and moderate supply levels for both grades. The market was characterized by resilience, with no significant disruptions or plant shutdowns affecting pricing dynamics. Broader challenges in the shipping industry, including escalating freight rates, container shortages, and extended lead times, collectively impacted market trading sentiments, resulting in an overall upward trend for both grades throughout the quarter. However, prices witnessed a steady drop in the magnesium oxide grade in the middle of the quarter, while downstream inquiries from the end-users' excipient sector continued to remain strong concerning the stearate grade.
As a result, the overall trend indicated a stable pricing landscape, with minimal fluctuations recorded. Compared to the previous quarter of the same year, the USA witnessed a rise of nearly 4% and 6%, respectively, with quarter-ending prices settling at USD 351/MT for Magnesium Oxide Powder CFR Texas and USD 2160/MT for Magnesium Stearate, underscoring an upward pricing environment.
Asia Pacific
Throughout Q3 2024, the APAC region experienced a stable and steadily rising pricing environment for Magnesium Powder including both the grades oxide and stearate. This trend was supported by consistent demand across various industries, strategic inventory management by suppliers, and positive market sentiment. Key contributing factors included increased production capacities, a balanced supply-demand dynamic, and robust export activities. China, a significant market for Magnesium Powder, saw the most notable price movements, influenced by fluctuations in raw material costs, ongoing logistical challenges, and rising freight costs which continued to constrain trading sentiment for Magnesium powder from the region. However, despite minor price adjustments for feed and food-grade oxide during the middle of the quarter, the overall trend remained high, reflecting the market's ability to adapt to external conditions. Overall, by the end of the quarter, the price of Magnesium Oxide (Feed Grade) in China reached USD 209/MT FOB Qingdao, Magnesium Oxide (food grade) at USD 2060/MT FOB Qingdao and Magnesium Stearate at USD 1995 / MT FOB Qingdao respectively reflecting the prevailing stability.
Europe
In the third quarter of 2024, the Magnesium Powder market in Europe experienced a notable period of rising prices, driven by a combination of global and local factors similar to those affecting other importing nations. The market faced significant supply challenges, with persistent inventory constraints and evolving global circumstances impacting pricing dynamics. Inflationary pressures further elevated costs throughout the supply chain, contributing to the upward trend in prices. Additionally, the price surge in key producing nations influenced market sentiment across Europe, resulting in a competitive price rise throughout the region. These factors collectively created an environment where exporting nations adjusted their pricing strategies to reflect increased market costs. Despite a slight decrease recorded in the previous quarter, the third quarter saw a strong rebound, with a similar pattern witnessed in other importing regions, particularly North America, when compared to the first half of the quarter. This positive momentum culminated in an upward trajectory for Magnesium Powder prices, underscoring a consistently increasing pricing environment and highlighting the robust demand and supply dynamics shaping the market.
South America
Moving forward toward the third quarter of 2024, in Q3 2024, the Magnesium Powder market in South America experienced a period of stability, with prices remaining relatively unchanged. Several factors contributed to this steady pricing environment. Strong global demand, supported by robust industrial activities, played a key role in maintaining price levels. Additionally, stable supply conditions, with no significant disruptions reported, ensured a balanced market dynamic. The overall trend in pricing was characterized by resilience and equilibrium, reflecting a mature and well-adjusted market. Brazil, a major player in the Magnesium Powder market, witnessed the most notable price changes during the quarter. Despite fluctuations in global markets, Brazil's pricing remained relatively steady, with minor adjustments in the month of August reflecting the overall stability in the region. The correlation in price changes between Brazil and the broader South American market indicated a synchronized pricing environment, highlighting the interconnected nature of the industry. As a result, the quarter ended with Magnesium Oxide Powder priced at USD 457/MT FOB Salvador in Brazil, marking a continuation of the stable pricing trend observed throughout Q3 2024. The absence of significant price fluctuations underscores the overall stability and balance in the Magnesium Powder market in South America during this period.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the North American magnesium powder market experienced a significant decline in prices for magnesium oxide while a stable trajectory for magnesium stearate, was driven by various factors.
With respect to the oxide side, the quarter overall saw a substantial oversupply resulting from increased domestic production and an influx of low-cost imports, which exacerbated competitive pressures among suppliers. Key sectors such as construction and pharmaceuticals exhibited weak demand, compounding the downward price trends. Supporting to this further, Regarding the export market dynamics, there were consistent indications that enterprise-level imports of Magnesium oxide could have experienced a further decline. This potential reduction in import volumes could be attributed to various factors, such as weakened regional market orders, demand volatility, trade regulatory implications, or competitive pricing pressures from other global suppliers.
While on the other hand the market sentiments considering magnesium stearate, the second quarter of 2024 has been marked by significant upward momentum in Magnesium Stearate prices within the North American region, driven primarily by a confluence of supply chain disruptions, escalating raw material costs, and robust demand from various industrial sectors. Notably, geopolitical tensions and logistical bottlenecks compounded by trade disputes have constrained the global supply chain, causing a substantial tightening of Magnesium Stearate availability. Further exacerbating the situation were stearic acid feedstock costs, which influenced pricing dynamics despite their earlier decline. Additional complications arose from the Red Sea dispute, which disrupted crucial shipping routes, and the collapse of the Baltimore Bridge, which further strained domestic logistics. This reflects a persistent upward trend, underscoring the broader economic resilience and robust industrial demand in the region while a pessimistic trajectory for Magnesium Oxide. Overall, the market sentiments have been predominantly mixed, marked by supply-demand imbalances and external disruptions, including logistical.
Asia Pacific
In Q2 2024, the APAC region witnessed a consistent decline in Magnesium Powder prices, driven by several notable factors. A significant reduction in demand from downstream industries, coupled with an oversupply in the market, led to decreasing prices. The manufacturing sector faced headwinds, including persistent logistical disruptions and increased storage costs, which prompted traders to liquidate excess inventories at reduced prices. Additionally, geopolitical tensions and fluctuating freight rates further complicated the supply chain, exacerbating the downward price trend. In China, which experienced the most pronounced price changes, the market saw a steady decline attributed to seasonal shifts and reduced demand from key sectors like supplements and rubber. The appreciation of the Yuan against the dollar made Chinese exports more expensive, reducing international demand. While the market for feed-grade magnesium oxide remained stable in the beginning and in the last month overall, the trajectory remained on the southerly side. Hence, the overall pricing environment in Q2 2024 has been decidedly negative, underpinned by a fragile balance of supply and demand. Notably, there were no reported disruptions or plant shutdowns during this quarter, as all market participants seemed focused on managing surplus inventories rather than production constraints.
Europe
In Q2 2024, the Magnesium Powder market in Europe experienced an overall downward trajectory in prices. Significant factors contributing to this trend included fluctuating demand for both grades across end-user sectors, coupled with varied supply avenues. Focusing on Germany, the downward trend was particularly pronounced. Market sentiment was further dampened by reduced raw material costs, which alleviated overall production expenses and led to lower Magnesium Powder prices. Furthermore, the consistent rise in freight cost ahead of the trade dispute further dampened the overall purchasing sentiments thereby affecting the overall market trading atmosphere and supporting a downward trajectory. Lastly, Enterprises, grappling with escalating costs associated with storage and the inherent risk of product deterioration, have commenced releasing their stockpiles within the market. This strategic maneuver has augmented the available supply for buyers, further exerting downward pressure on prices. Throughout the quarter.
South America
The second quarter of 2024 saw a positive trend in Magnesium Powder prices across South America, particularly in Brazil. This upward trajectory was primarily driven by robust demand from both regional and international markets. Brazil's factory activity index experienced a significant surge, indicating strong demand for factory goods and increased inquiries from overseas markets. This growth, coupled with the rapid expansion of new orders, painted a promising picture for the Brazilian economy and maintained elevated trading sentiments. Currency fluctuations played a crucial role in supporting Magnesium Oxide Powder prices. The depreciation of the local currency enhanced Brazil's competitiveness in international trade, potentially boosting exports and stimulating demand for the product. Additionally, higher input costs contributed to the rising production expenses, resulting in overall higher export prices. While, the demand side remained strong, with consumer confidence playing a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. A surge in new inquiries from key importing nations drove up purchasing sentiments, prompting firms to procure inputs extensively. However, this heightened demand strained supply chains and led to increased prices. On the supply side, limitations in Magnesium Oxide Powder availability hindered regional supply forecasts, with growing demand exacerbating the situation. Industry observers noted the scarcity of the product, widening the gap between supply and demand. The manufacturing sector's robust performance, characterized by a significant uptick in factory activity, underscored the immediate need for comprehensive supply projections to address emerging challenges. In conclusion, the Q2 2024 Magnesium Powder market in South America, particularly Brazil, was characterized by strong demand, supply constraints, and favorable currency conditions, all contributing to an upward price trend.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
Throughout Q1 2024, the Magnesium Powder market in the North American region experienced significant price changes. The prices of Magnesium Powder in the USA saw the maximum fluctuations during this period. Several factors influenced market prices, including increased demand from the downstream sector, limited inventory availability, and higher freight costs. The Lunar New Year break in exporting nations also impacted trade momentum, causing delays in the arrival of consignments and higher freight charges. Additionally, the prices of feedstock such as magnesium and stearic acid played a role in the overall price increase for Magnesium Stearate and oxide considerably.
Overall, the market sentiment was positive, with a sustained and noticeable uptick in demand for both the grades of Magnesium Powder. Additionally, the reliance on imports from China and fluctuations in Chinese provinces affected the domestic market. Various plant shutdowns also played a role in price dynamics, as production halts in Chinese provinces during the Lunar New Year celebrations resulted in constrained shipments and limited inventories in the US market. This led to market players adjusting quotations to protect profit margins and selling available stockpiles at higher rates.
Looking at the price trends, Magnesium Oxide Powder saw a slight drop in prices in March. The price changes in the USA were in line with weakened purchasing witnessed across the region resulting in sufficient inventories witnessed among the market participants. This was further a result of quarter-end destocking, resulting in the merchants clearing their inventories at a lower cost.
Asia Pacific
In Q1 2024, the pricing dynamics of Magnesium Powder for both the grades including Stearate and Oxide witnessed a mixed trajectory in the APAC region. Considering the market trend for Magnesium Stearate the overall market remained on the optimistic side with prices rising by an average of nearly 7 percent. The market dynamics heavily influenced Magnesium Stearate pricing in Q1 2024. High demand, limited supply due to bottlenecks, and disruptions in raw material flow like Stearic Acid pushed prices up. The weakening Chinese Yuan against the US dollar worsened the situation. Post-holiday, regional and international inquiries remained high, allowing suppliers to raise prices strategically for maximum profit. Initially, trade disruptions raised freight costs, but as March progressed, increased quotations, a stronger dollar, and decreased freight expenses boosted import quotations. Gradually decreasing freight charges from China also facilitated transportation. on the contrary, the market outlook for Magnesium Oxide additionally followed a similar trajectory with prices dropping considerably at the beginning of the quarter which weighed the overall market outlook. This was supported by the sudden decrease in regional quotations coupled with more than sufficient inventories among the merchants stockpiled in the previous quarter of the last year. Further higher reluctance among the traders and buyers to procure the goods at a higher cost as the yuan continued to depreciate against the dollar which made the overall regional product more expensive in the market, keeping the market moving on the southern side. Overall, pricing dynamics in Q1 2024 for Magnesium powder were influenced by demand-supply dynamics, currency fluctuations, and supply chain disruptions, illustrating market complexity.
Europe
In the European region, Magnesium Powder prices followed those in the USA in Q1 2024. Optimism prevailed due to sustained demand from domestic pharmaceutical and food sectors despite global supply chain disruptions, especially in the Red Sea region. These disruptions caused delays and extended lead times, worsening shortages and pushing prices up. Germany closely monitored the pricing trends of major exporting nations, facing complications from currency fluctuations, particularly the Euro's depreciation against the dollar. Despite rising freight charges, traders and purchasers had to accept goods at higher costs due to increased expenses for imported materials in USD. Additionally, the price escalation of raw materials, Stearic acid, and magnesium, complemented the price hike of Magnesium Powder for both grades throughout the quarter. Towards the quarter's end in March 2024, destocking activities added to the influencing factors. As the Euro devalued against the dollar and regional inquiries remained steady, merchants cleared stocks at higher costs to maximize profits. The resumption of production activities in exporting countries after holiday breaks and easing trade disruptions bolstered market resilience across importing nations, fostering an optimistic outlook for magnesium Stearte while a steady drop was witnessed in the prices of magnesium oxide as the quarter marks its ending in March 2024. This was supported by a drop in regional quotations particularly from downstream food and supplement industries. Furthermore to devaluation of the euro against the dollar further kept the overall trading sentiments on the lower side as buyers were highly reluctant to purchase the goods at given higher rates.
South America
During Q1 2024, Magnesium Powder prices in the South America region, notably Brazil, showed a positive trend in 2024. This price hike is a direct result of strategic maneuvers by key industry players who have initiated substantial orders to meet the growing demand and bolster increased purchasing activities. A significant driver behind this price escalation is the surge in raw material expenses including other input charges, particularly for magnesium, in major regions where it is produced and exported. Brazil further, has mirrored the pricing trends of other exporting regions to remain competitive amidst evolving market dynamics. Adding complexity to this scenario are geopolitical tensions and trade interruptions, which have further compounded market sentiments. Export challenges, such as the redirection of shipping routes via the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the Red Sea, have triggered a chain reaction of consequences. These include heightened shipping costs, order cancellations, and delays in container movement which considerably resulted in a higher export price from Brazil to importing nations. Furthermore, Western and Northern regions, including Europe, also experienced a continuous rise in downstream consumption thereby resulting in a higher trade momentum further supporting the overall optimistic market trajectory throughout the quarter.
