Methionine remains firm while other amino acids in a wait-and-see mode

Most lysine hcl suppliers are still not offering as they would like to see higher prices. Typically fresh offers (if any this week) are made on Tuesday, so more news about this will follow. Prices for lysine sulphate are stable, at a low level. Threonine remains stable to weak and the market is quiet. Valine and tryptophan are stable for now, at a low price level. Shipments ex China are still significantly delayed and leading to shortages for prompt deliveries in the export regions.

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Lysine

Some suppliers have returned to the market and have increased prices, while others still refrain from offering. Sales for export have been good lately and after a period of price decline, the market price on a FOB China basis has become very low. Manufacturers have a strong desire to increase the prices for lysine hcl. At the same time, the delays in shipments to ex-China to for example Europe and the US are now starting to have a significant impact on local stock levels. Some Q2 inquiries and transactions are seen in Europe and the US, as securing supply is a priority, with all the delays ex China. A good portion of Q2 is contracted by now.

Threonine

The threonine market is very quiet and hardly any transactions are seen. Despite the significant delays ex China, stock positions in the regions are still sufficient in most cases. Before Chinese New Year, prices were coming down on a FOB China basis but also in several other regions. But since then the market has stabilised and prices have not, so far, declined further. Buyers remain careful in taking long-term positions, despite the already low prices. Prices have been lower though, so there is a wait-and-see attitude. A portion of Q2 is contracted, but nothing significant yet.

DL-Methionine

The market remains tight but is getting less active, compared to the previous weeks. Spot availability remains very difficult in for example Europe. Supplier quotes for Q2 delivery still have a firm tone with limited volume allocation. Despite all the news in 2023 of additional capacity and oversupply, the market is currently tight and prices are firm. Production output and continuous plant maintenance/optimisation continue to pressure the supply chain. A good portion of Q2 is contracted by now and several buyers have also contracted their full Q2 needs.

Tryptophan

A slight price decline is seen in the EU market, although availability is still not optimal in that region. In other regions, the price is staying stable. The market does seem to have calmed down again in most regions, although at a higher price level compared to previous months. One of the reasons for this tighter market is the domestic supply in for example Europe and the US that is reduced and can’t be compensated fully by imported material. Prices FOB China are mostly stable. A portion of Q2 has been contracted by now.

Valine

Some activity is seen in a few regions, like Europe, although limited. Buyers mention that the price is low and that it may decline further, but there are some concerns about availability in Q2. The delays ex China seem to have stopped the price decline for now. Q1 is contracted and a small portion of Q2 is as well.