The US vitamin C market rebounded in early March after a quiet late February, as spot buying improved with first-quarter immune-health demand and stable export supply from Chinese glucose-fermentation centers. Although Chinese producers maintained normal operating rates and adequate output, higher trans-Pacific freight costs increased landed-cost calculations, keeping suppliers cautious. Buyers therefore favored requirement-based purchasing rather than aggressive stock-building, while inventories remained sufficient for short-term needs. Demand was uneven across end-use sectors: beverage fortification led growth with strong year-on-year blending volumes, supporting firmer offtake, while nutraceutical, feed, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical segments stayed comparatively softer or routine. Exporters also lifted quotations in response to war-related market sentiment and freight increases, adding further cost pressure. Analysts expect modest upward price momentum in the coming months as seasonal supplement demand persists. Looking ahead, geopolitical tensions involving the United States, Israel, and Iran may further elevate crude oil prices, increasing freight, energy, and marine insurance costs, which could sustain upward pressure despite comfortable supply availability.
