Threonine and lysine markets active in several regions

19-04-2023 | Feed additives | Analysis

In particular threonine, but also lysine hcl and lysine sulphate markets have become active in some regions like Europe. Learn more in this week’s amino acids snapshot (week 16).

Resistance from manufacturers to reduce prices further, low prices, relatively favourable currency exchange rates and stabilising freight rates have triggered Q2 and partly Q3 contracting. Tryptophan and methionine markets are feeling a bit weak still. And there are still some delays seen for Valine ex China, leading to spot business and keeping prices up.

In partnership with Feed Additive Prices

Lysine

Particularly in Europe, the market was very active last week, as buyers concluded contracts for the remainder of Q2 and a portion of Q3. Prices had become low and with the current exchange rate, stabilising container freight rate, and resistance from manufacturers to reduce the price further, buyers felt momentum to do something. The price locally did increase a bit and maybe slightly FOB China, but nothing significant as availability is still very good.

Threonine

The market was quite active the last week and still is, as prices for threonine ex-China continue to firm-up bit by bit. Manufacturers have seen a declining market for over a year now and have started to increase prices in an attempt to move away from the low price level. This has triggered late Q2 and early Q3 buying. Prices in the regions have increased a bit.

DL-Methionine

Slightly weaker spot prices are seen in some regions, but no significant changes compared to previous weeks. The methionine market is very quiet. Q2 has been contracted, and prices have stabilised at a relatively low level. Although, as said, a cent/kg of decline here and there is mentioned.

Tryptophan

There is still some sales pressure ex China, as prices have weakened on a FOB China basis. But also in other regions like Europe and the USA, the prices are slightly weakening. The demand for tryptophan is behind compared to previous years currently, while the supply is still ample. The market feels very quiet and is well contracted for Q2 and there are no signs of any interest for Q3 right now.

Valine

The market is relatively calm, although some spot transactions are still seen. A few gaps in the pipeline are foreseen ex China and this has led to some additional buying. Prices are relatively stable in most regions until now. Q2 is contracted and a small overlap into Q3 as well.