In Q1 2024, 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) prices in the APAC region saw a 7% increase compared to Q4 2023, with Japan being a major exporter to Vietnam and India. In Europe, prices experienced a more modest 1% increase from Q4 2023, with Germany as the primary exporter to the USA and Turkey. The price trends in both regions were driven by factors such as stable demand and gradual shifts in production levels.
In Q2 2024, the APAC region experienced a significant price surge of approximately 23% compared to Q1 2024. This increase was driven by rising demand from industries such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and coatings, as economic activity rebounded, and manufacturers ramped up production. In contrast, the European market saw a slight price decrease of about 0.1% compared to Q1 2024. This stability was due to increased production capacities and stable supply levels, which helped mitigate major price fluctuations.
In Q3 2024, demand for 2-EHA in the APAC region is expected to remain strong, particularly in sectors like coatings, plastics, and agrochemicals, with ongoing economic recovery supporting industrial activity. Price pressure may continue if raw material costs fluctuate. In Europe, the demand for 2-EHA is anticipated to remain stable, driven by consistent production levels and applications in coatings, lubricants, and plastics. Seasonal variations in production schedules may cause minor price fluctuations, but overall, the market is expected to stabilize due to steady supply chains.
In Q4 2024, both the APAC and European regions are expected to experience robust demand, driven by industries such as automotive, coatings, and agrochemicals. In the APAC region, increased production ahead of year-end deadlines could lead to heightened demand, with fluctuating feedstock prices potentially influencing costs. In Europe, the seasonal uptick in demand for coatings, plastics, and lubricants could put upward pressure on 2-EHA prices. Manufacturers are likely to increase production to meet demand, but fluctuations in raw material costs, geopolitical tensions, and broader economic conditions, such as inflation and consumer spending, will remain significant factors in price adjustments.