For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, the North American region witnessed a decline in Calcium Chloride prices, primarily driven by subdued demand from the paints and coatings industry due to decreased construction spending. Factors such as weak construction activity, disrupted by events like Hurricane Beryl, and high interest rates contributing to lower non-residential spending, created a bearish market sentiment.
In the USA, prices experienced the most significant changes, with a 2% decrease from the previous quarter. Overall trends showcased a negative correlation, with a 4% decrease in prices between the first and second half of the quarter. But as Quarter came to end the demand from the construction sector did grew amidst rising employment in the sector.
The quarter-ending price stood at USD 318/MT of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) DEL Texas in the USA. Plant shutdowns during the quarter included disruptions due to Hurricane Francine. The pricing environment in Q3 leaned towards a negative sentiment, marked by a combination of supply chain disruptions, low demand, and reduced construction activity.
APAC
In Q3 2024, the APAC region witnessed a mixed trend in Calcium Chloride pricing due to various factors. With prices rising in the first two months of Quarter and then declining in the third month. Subdued demand from downstream industries, particularly in construction, played a significant role in influencing market prices. Weak demand led to elevated inventory levels and reduced factory prices, creating a bearish sentiment. Additionally, factors such as low feedstock prices, sluggish economic growth, and limited cost support contributed to the declining prices. Japan experienced the most significant price changes during the quarter. The market saw fluctuations driven by factors like reduced demand from key sectors, weak construction activity, and ongoing challenges in the real estate market. The quarter ended with a 1% decrease from the previous quarter, reflecting the overall negative trend in prices. The quarter-ending price for Calcium Chloride in Japan stood at USD 178/MT CFR Osaka, indicating a stable to negative pricing environment. Notable disruptions or plant shutdowns were reported in the region during the quarter.
Europe
The Q3 2024 period for Calcium Chloride in the European region witnessed a decline in prices, attributed to several factors influencing the market dynamics as the prices increased in first month of Quarter but thereafter declined throughout Q3 2024. The market faced downward pressure due to demand from international markets, ample stock variability impacting trading costs, and weak performance in the construction sector thus leading to fewer downstream inquires. Additionally, reduced import prices from China and lower natural gas prices further contributed to the price decrease. In the Netherlands specifically, the market saw significant changes, with prices almost stable from the previous quarter. The correlation in price changes between the first and second half of the quarter showed a decline of 2%. This decreasing trend aligns with the overall negative sentiment in the market, marked by reduced demand, excess inventories, and bearish trading conditions. The quarter ended with a price of USD 224/MT of Calcium Chloride FD Rotterdam, reflecting the prevailing downward pricing environment.
South America
In Q3 2024, the South American region witnessed a increase in Calcium Chloride prices at end of quarter. With mixed trends seen in Quarter, with Brazil experiencing the most significant price changes. Various factors influenced this trend, including excess market inventories, however, the prices pf imports from international markets have increased leading to prices of stocks, and seasonal fluctuations. Supply chain disruptions and rising transportation costs added complexity to the pricing environment, leading to downward pressure on prices. The decrease in prices can also be attributed to lower government spending on infrastructure projects, impacting demand for Calcium Chloride. Additionally, logistical issues and supply chain disruptions affected the availability of the product, contributing to the price rise. In Brazil specifically, the market saw a positive correlation in price changes, with a 1% increase from the previous quarter. The quarter-ending price for Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) CFR Santos Port in Brazil stood at USD 247/MT, reflecting the overall decreasing sentiment in the pricing environment.
For the Quarter Ending June 2024
North America
In Q2 2024, the North American Calcium Chloride market has witnessed a palpable upward trajectory. The quarter has been marked by several significant factors that have influenced market prices. Robust demand from the construction sector has played a pivotal role in driving prices upward. In addition, increased feedstock Calcium Carbonate prices have escalated production costs, contributing further to the price surge.
The construction sector’s heightened activity, driven by infrastructure investments and government policies, has sustained high downstream inquiries. Despite optimal operating rates in domestic plants, the market has faced occasional supply constraints due to planned short-term shutdowns by manufacturers, aggravating the price rise.
Focusing on the USA, which has seen the most substantial price changes, the market has exhibited a consistent increasing sentiment. The overall trend reflects a positive pricing environment, fuelled by growing demand and rising production costs. Seasonality has also impacted prices, with the quarter witnessing restocking activities and increased industrial activity. The correlation between these factors has resulted in a steady price climb. Concluding the quarter, the price of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) DEL Texas stands at USD 326/MT, signalling a sustained and positive pricing environment.
APAC
In Q2 2024, the Calcium Chloride market in the APAC region experienced a downturn trend. This was due to an adequate supply in the market to meet downstream demand. The market mentality was mainly wait-and-see, with limited trading activity. It is expected that the Calcium Chloride market will be weakly consolidated in the future, with narrow price fluctuations. The China General Manufacturing PMI increased in Q2 2024. Output growth reached a two-year peak, and new orders rose for the eleventh consecutive month. Buying levels saw the largest gain in over three years, leading to further accumulation of purchase stocks. Foreign sales continued to expand, though at the slowest pace in six months. Employment saw a balance of expansion and reduction, with backlogs of work rising for the fourth month. Delivery times lengthened for the first time since February due to material shortages and constraints. Input prices rose the most in two years, and selling prices increased for the first time in six months. However, sentiment fell to a four-and-a-half-year low due to rising competition and uncertain market conditions. While Calcium Chloride prices in the Chinese market are expected to increase, the rise is projected to be moderate. Inventories of Calcium Chloride enterprises have decreased, with supplier updates indicating optimism. Some manufacturers plan short-term shutdowns in June as the quarter ends.
Europe
In the first half of Q2 2024, the prices of Calcium Chloride showed declining market trends. This was due to an adequate storage of stocks in the market to meet downstream demand, leading traders to offer lower prices for inventories. Furthermore, the prices of feedstock Calcium Carbonate showed declining market trends. Additionally, the demand from the downstream construction industry was on the lower side, leading to fewer product inquiries. In the second half of Q2 2024, the Calcium Chloride market in Europe experienced a general price increase, driven by significant factors such as supply chain disruptions, heightened demand, and rising production costs. The ongoing geopolitical crisis in the Red Sea exacerbated freight delays and elevated shipping costs, straining the European market. Additionally, the persistent high prices of natural gas and associated LNG costs notably inflated production expenses, contributing to the overall price surge of Calcium Chloride. In the Netherlands, the market felt these effects acutely, marked by the maximum price changes observed in the region. The quarter was characterized by increased restocking activity and robust demand from the construction sector, bolstered by foreign direct investment and government incentives. Despite stable production operations, the price increase was further amplified by the upward pressure on feedstock Calcium Carbonate prices. Additionally, strategic measures such as maintaining high inventory levels in anticipation of supply bottlenecks drove prices higher. Seasonal trends also played a role, with demand peaking during the start of holiday preparations, resulting in a notable price increase of 6% between the first and second halves of the quarter. These factors culminated in an overall price increase of USD 223/MT for Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) FD Rotterdam at the end of the quarter.
South America
In first half of Q2 2024, the South America region witnessed a notable decline in Calcium Chloride prices, driven by a combination of factors. The market experienced a bearish trend, with moderate supply levels and demand. The lower prices were primarily attributed to the decline in import prices from key markets, alongside adequate inventory levels and robust demand from downstream sectors like construction. Additionally, the overall economic environment, including currency fluctuations and international market dynamics, played a significant role in shaping pricing trends. In the second half of Q2 2024, the prices of Calcium Chloride showed increasing market trends. Within Brazil, the pricing landscape saw the most significant changes, with a recorded 1% increase from the previous quarter. The quarter also displayed a 3% price difference between the first and second halves, indicating a notable upward trajectory. Furthermore, with the rise in the prices of feedstock Calcium Carbonate, the prices of Calcium Chloride also increased. Demand from the downstream construction industry saw a positive increment. Despite challenges such as plant shutdowns and disruptions, the market remained positive, culminating in a quarter-ending price of USD 245/MT of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) CFR Santos Port in Brazil.
For the Quarter Ending March 2024
North America
The North American Calcium Chloride market in Q1 2024 demonstrated stability with a nuanced upward trend in USA prices, influenced by factors such as downstream demand, supply dynamics, and feedstock costs, with the latest quarter-ending price for Calcium Chloride. This resulting in an overall stable to slightly bullish sentiment. Notably, the USA experienced marginal price increases, contrasting with the broader market trend. Demand from downstream industries, particularly in de-icing, remained robust despite the waning winter season, sustaining consistent inquiries.
Concurrently, the food and packaging sectors bolstered demand for Calcium Chloride. Supply chain disruptions were minimal, ensuring a moderate market availability, although reduced imports led to slightly diminished inventory levels. Escalating prices of feedstock soda ash drove up production costs, consequently impacting Calcium Chloride prices.
Q1 2024 Quarterly price analysis indicates a marginal increase compared to the same period last year, suggesting a positive trajectory, albeit with relatively stable quarter-on-quarter changes in 2024.
APAC
Throughout the first quarter of 2024, the pricing dynamics of Calcium Chloride in the APAC region have remained predominantly stable, marked by occasional fluctuations across various markets. This stability has been chiefly influenced by factors such as supply chain intricacies, demands from downstream sectors, and the cost dynamics of key feedstock like Soda ash. Generally, there has been a consistent supply to meet the needs of industries such as de-icing and food, supported by sustained economic conditions and increased purchasing capacity. However, demand patterns have varied, with some markets experiencing robust demand while others have encountered a slowdown in new orders. Notably, China has witnessed significant price adjustments, primarily driven by surplus inventories and associated discounts offered by sellers, compounded by declining prices of Soda ash. Despite these shifts, the de-icing industry has maintained strong demand, fostering ongoing interest from downstream sectors. As the snowfall season nears its end, a decrease in demand from the de-icing sector is anticipated, while other sectors like food and packaging are poised to witness heightened demand due to stable global economic conditions and subdued inflation.
Europe
During the first quarter of 2024, the European Calcium Chloride market experienced a 4% decrease in prices compared to the same period the previous year, influenced by various factors. the Calcium Chloride pricing environment in Q1 2024 exhibited a pessimistic trend, influenced by reduced demand from downstream sectors, surplus inventory, and the conclusion of the snowfall season.
Notably, reduced demand from downstream industries such as de-icing led to an overall decline in Calcium Chloride demand. Additionally, heightened inventory levels prompted sellers to offer discounts to clear excess stock, further driving prices down. This trend was particularly evident in the Netherlands, where significant price adjustments mirrored the broader European market. Here, decreased demand from the de-icing industry as the snowfall season neared its end, combined with surplus inventory levels, contributed to price decreases. Despite a seasonal decline in demand with the waning snowfall season, strong demand from industries like food helped maintain moderate overall market demand.
For the Quarter Ending December 2023
North America
In the North American region, the pricing of Calcium Chloride in the fourth quarter of 2023 was influenced by several factors. Firstly, there was a notable decrease of 2% in prices compared to the previous quarter. This decline can be attributed to ample inventory levels, leading to a decrease in pricing.
Additionally, the stability of natural gas prices contributed to steady production costs. In terms of demand, there was a moderate level of interest from downstream industries, particularly in the construction and de-icing sectors. The Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) for the US market indicated expansion in the manufacturing sector, further supporting demand for Calcium Chloride. However, the overall demand remained low to moderate, leading to a subdued market. No major plant shutdowns were reported during this quarter.
Focusing on the USA, which experienced the most significant price changes, the price of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) DEL Texas decreased by 2% compared to the previous quarter. The price at the end of the quarter was USD 303/MT. In conclusion, the North American Calcium Chloride market in the fourth quarter of 2023 was characterized by a decline in prices due to high inventories and subdued demand. The USA experienced a decrease in prices during this period, with the construction and de-icing industries driving demand. However, the overall market remained relatively stable, with no major plant shutdowns reported.
APAC
In the APAC region, the fourth quarter of 2023 for Calcium Chloride witnessed various factors that influenced the market and pricing dynamics. Firstly, there was a moderate supply of Calcium Chloride in the region, accompanied by limited availability due to a decline in production rates within manufacturing units. This led to a slight shortage of product inventory, creating an imbalance between supply and demand. Despite these challenges, the supply chain operations remained smooth without any significant disruptions. Secondly, the demand for Calcium Chloride in the APAC region was moderate, with sectors like plastics, textiles, and pharmaceuticals showing relatively subdued demand. However, there was a slight improvement in downstream demand from the construction industry. Additionally, there was a faint increase in new orders from overseas consumer markets. Thirdly, in China, which experienced the most significant changes in pricing, the market sentiment for Calcium Chloride slightly declined in November. This was accompanied by a modest increase in demand, driven by growth in new orders and export sales. The overall supply chain and market conditions for Calcium Chloride in China remained relatively stable, with no significant issues observed. In terms of pricing, the latest quarter-ending price for Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) FOB-Qingdao in China is USD 146/MT. This represents a -3% decrease compared to the previous quarter.
Europe
In the fourth quarter of 2023, the European market for Calcium Chloride experienced a challenging period. The top three factors that influenced the market and prices were weakened downstream demand, increased borrowing costs from the European Central Bank (ECB), and a decline in the feedstock Calcium Carbonate prices. These factors led to a bearish market situation, with moderate supply and low to moderate demand from industries such as de-icing, construction, oil and gas, water treatment, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. In terms of the Netherlands, which saw the most significant price changes, the price of Calcium Chloride decreased by 11% compared to the previous quarter. Additionally, there was a 5% decrease in price during the second half of the quarter compared to the first half. Despite these challenges, the quarter ended with a price of USD 230/MT of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) FD Rotterdam in the Netherlands. No plant shutdowns were reported during this period. Overall, the market faced downward pressure due to weakened demand and increased production costs, resulting in lower prices for Calcium Chloride.
South America
Overall, the South American market for Calcium Chloride in the fourth quarter of 2023 experienced a bearish trend, with prices decreasing in Brazil due to factors such as high inventory levels and reduced demand from downstream industries. These factors led to a bearish market situation, with prices of Calcium Chloride decreasing in the region. One notable event during this quarter was the absence of any reported plant shutdowns.
Among the countries in the South American region, Brazil witnessed the most significant changes in Calcium Chloride prices. The market in Brazil was influenced by factors such as decreased demand from the construction industry and low inventories. Additionally, the Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) indicated a contraction in the manufacturing sector, further impacting the demand for Calcium Chloride. The prices of Calcium Chloride in Brazil decreased by 3% from the previous quarter, reflecting the overall bearish market trend.
Looking at the price trend within the quarter, there was a negative correlation between the first and second half of the quarter in Brazil, with prices decreasing by 3%. However, when compared to the same quarter in the previous year, there was a significant increase of 61% in prices. The quarter-ending price of Calcium Chloride (74-77% Tech Grade) CFR Santos Port in Brazil was USD 227/MT.
