Tetrasodium iminodisuccinate

Recent Market Dynamics

1. Price Trends
- Domestic Market: Over the past week, the mainstream transaction price of tetrasodium iminodisuccinate (TIDS) fluctuated in the range of 12,000–12,500 RMB/ton, representing an overall increase of approximately 200 RMB/ton compared to the previous week, with a rise of 1.6%–1.7%. In some regions, prices reached 12,800 RMB/ton due to increased transportation costs.
- International Market: In Asia, prices in Southeast Asia ranged from 1,700–1,750 USD/ton (CFR Southeast Asia), up by 20–30 USD/ton compared to the previous week. Prices in Europe remained relatively stable at 1,900–1,950 EUR/ton (FOB Northwest Europe).

2. Supply Situation
- Domestic Capacity: The operating rate of major domestic producers remained at 75%–80%. Some enterprises reduced output due to equipment maintenance, which is expected to last 10–15 days, affecting production by approximately 100–150 tons.
- Import Status: Import volumes showed no significant changes recently, stabilizing at 200–300 tons per month, primarily from Europe and Japan. Import prices increased slightly due to the influence of international market prices.

3. Demand Situation
- Downstream Industries: In the detergent industry, rising summer cleaning demands led to increased consumption of TIDS, with order volumes at some large detergent manufacturers growing by 15%–20% compared to the previous month. In the electroplating industry, demand remained stable, but procurement by some small electroplating plants decreased due to environmental compliance pressures.
- Regional Demand: East China exhibited the strongest demand, accounting for 40%–45% of total domestic consumption, driven by its developed manufacturing and detergent industries. South China saw notable demand growth, increasing by 10%–12% compared to the previous month, largely driven by rising export orders.

4. Cost Factors
- Raw Materials: The price of the primary raw material, succinic acid, increased by 5%–8% recently, while sodium hydroxide prices also rose slightly, resulting in an increase in production costs for TIDS by approximately 300–400 RMB/ton.
- Energy Costs: Electricity and natural gas prices remained stable, having minimal impact on production costs.

Analysis and Judgment

1. Reasons for Price Increase: The price increase was driven by dual factors on the supply side—reduced output due to enterprise maintenance and higher production costs caused by rising raw material prices. On the demand side, increased consumption in the detergent industry provided support for prices.
2. Reasons for Regional Differences: East China’s concentrated industrial base and high demand result in a more active market and relatively higher prices. South China’s prices are rising due to demand growth driven by exports. Other regions experience relatively stable demand and smaller price fluctuations.
3. Reasons for International Market Differences: Rising demand in Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia, has pushed prices upward. In contrast, Europe’s market remains stable with consistent supply and minimal demand changes, keeping prices flat.

Forecast

1. Price Trends: In the short term, prices are expected to continue rising slightly due to reduced supply and higher costs, with an anticipated increase of 100–200 RMB/ton. Medium-term prices may stabilize as maintenance periods end and supply resumes. Long-term trends will depend on raw material prices and downstream demand; continued raw material price hikes or significant demand increases could trigger further price rises.
2. Supply Situation: Enterprises undergoing maintenance are expected to resume production within 10–15 days, gradually increasing supply and alleviating market tightness.
3. Demand Situation: Demand in the detergent industry is expected to remain strong throughout the summer, while electroplating industry demand will stay stable. Overall demand is likely to remain at a high level, though environmental policies affecting the electroplating sector should be monitored.
4. Market Risks: Factors such as raw material price volatility, changes in environmental regulations, and international trade frictions may impact the market. Close monitoring of related developments is advised.