Acetaldehyde Prices Trend and Forecast
North America
Acetaldehyde prices showed fluctuation in the USA market during the fourth quarter of 2022. In the first few weeks of Q4, Acetaldehyde prices dropped owing to the weak cost pressure from the feedstock Ethanol prices. Demand from the end-user food preservative and allied industry remained subdued, while the ample material availability weighed down the prices of Acetaldehyde. However, during mid of Q4, Acetaldehyde prices rebound due to the high feedstock Ethanol prices. Limited material availability and improved demand from the end-user industry led to the price increase in the domestic market. Although, during the final of Q4, Acetaldehyde prices dropped, backed by the bearish demand dynamics amid off-season dullness. Meanwhile, a sufficient inventory level was available to cater to the overall domestic demand.
Asia- Pacific
Acetaldehyde prices have showcased an oscillating trend in Asia- Pacific during the fourth quarter of 2022. During October, Acetaldehyde prices dropped in the Chinese market owing to the subdued demand from the downstream food preservative and other competitive industries amid the sluggish consumer sentiment in the domestic market. However, during November, prices increased due to the improved demand from the end-user industry. Furthermore, under the influence of persistent lockdown implementation during the zero covid policy, manufacturers have started facing a labor shortage coupled with supply chain disruption, which majorly pertains to logistical constraints. Despite this, during December, prices gained downward momentum. Manufacturing activity declined as Covid-19 outbreaks continued to weigh on both output and demand. According to several authorities, purchasing manufacturing index dropped below 50 (i.e., 49.4), indicating a contraction in both manufacturing and industrial activity.
Europe
Prices of Acetaldehyde witnessed mixed sentiments in the European market during the fourth quarter of 2022. During the first month, Acetaldehyde prices dropped due to ample material availability and weak demand from the food preservative and other competitive industries. Feedstock Ethanol prices decreased, resulting in the low production cost of Acetaldehyde. Although, during the last two months, Acetaldehyde prices rebounded owing to the high-cost pressure from the feedstock Ethanol. In terms of domestic production, operating rates remained under check as energy prices continued to climb higher. Despite this, the market transactions have operated at low levels as the inflationary pressures have affected the downstream demand. In addition, imports from USA and Asia faced port congestion in key major trading ports of Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Antwerp. Furthermore, Germany faced labor unrest, and logistics remained under pressure, which constrained the material available in the regional market.
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