DMA Prices in Asia Drop Sharply in H2 March Amid Lower Feedstock Costs and Weak Supplier Actions
- 01-Apr-2025 3:20 PM
- Journalist: Shiba Teramoto
In the Asian market, the Dimethyl Amine (DMA) price has marked a notable decrease as of H2 March. This decrease in the DMA price is majorly attributed to the lower feedstock pricing, particularly Ammonia putting downward pressure on the pricing. Additionally, the weak supplier's actions along with the improved logistical challenges and the strengthening of the exchange rates have further intensified the DMA pricing towards the downside.
In the Chinese market, the price of the DMA witnessed a notable decrease in H2 March. From the feedstock market, Ammonia supply has improved as manufacturers resumed production after earlier maintenance shutdowns. With operating rates increasing, availability has risen, easing previous supply constraints. On top of that, weaker demand for urea has led some producers to divert output toward ammonia, adding to the supply glut. As a result, the market is now facing increased pressure from excess stock, making it harder for prices to hold firm. Additionally, Some suppliers have been slow to adjust to the price drop, holding off on revising their offers despite the reduced demand. They seem to be waiting for the market to rebound or hoping for better conditions before making any significant changes. As a result, supply-side activity has remained relatively stagnant, with many not making the necessary adjustments to align with the current price trends. Additionally in March, the exchange rates witnessed notable improvement thereby contributing towards easing the DMA exporting price from the manufacturers. This cautious approach is contributing to a lack of movement in the DMA market.
In the Indian market, the price of the DMA witnessed a notable decline in H2 March. This decline in the DMA price is majorly linked to the easing supply of the major feedstock Ammonia and Methanol. From the downstream market, demand for agrochemicals remains moderate and is expected to rise as farmers finish the Rabi harvest and begin preparing for the Kharif season. They are focusing on buying products like herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers to get their fields ready for planting. The Pharma and the Personal care sector are witnessing a positive run. Despite this outperformance, the market participants are summoned with the adequate availabilities of the inventories due to which the production capacities remain steady with the ongoing replenishment of the undergoing due to which the suppliers have reduced their exquotation price in the respective period.
As per the ChemAnalyst anticipation, the DMA price is expected to showcase bearishness in the upcoming sessions. Though the demand is expected to rise, the market is currently witnessing adequate inventory availabilities due to which the suppliers are expected to keep the DMA price in range for a few weeks.