In Q1 2024, Paraformaldehyde prices exhibited a mixed trend influenced by various global market conditions. Compared to Q4 2023, prices in China declined by approximately 6%, driven largely by reduced demand in key sectors such as adhesives, resins, and agrochemicals. This downward pressure was further compounded by ample supply of Methanol, the primary feedstock for Paraformaldehyde, which helped keep raw material costs low. Consequently, the combination of lower demand and steady supply contributed to the overall price decline during this period.
In Q2 2024, PFA prices slightly increased compared to previous quarter in China. However, the price trend decreased in the European market in the vicinity of deterred demand and excessive inventories. The oscillations of methanol prices, a key feedstock for Paraformaldehyde production, helped maintain cost consistency, but the uptick in demand still drove prices up slightly.
As of August 2024, Paraformaldehyde prices exhibited some fluctuations but stabilized compared to the previous month. A key factor behind this consistency is the stable pricing of methanol, which serves as a crucial feedstock for Paraformaldehyde production. In Q3 2024, Paraformaldehyde prices will remain relatively stable across different regions, primarily due to balanced supply and demand conditions. In Europe, the market was characterized by consistent methanol prices, a crucial feedstock for Paraformaldehyde, alongside stable energy costs.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024 and beyond, demand from downstream sectors, such as resins, adhesives, and agrochemicals, is expected to increase, with prices influenced by both global demand recovery and any disruptions in supply.