In Q1 2024, the global Sodium Chloride market exhibited a slight decrease of 0.55% in prices, with India reporting Sodium Chloride prices at INR 3953/MT. This trend reflected a stabilization compared to the previous quarter, influenced by a combination of factors including adequate domestic production and reduced export demand. Meanwhile, in the USA, the market faced similar conditions, with sufficient stock levels helping to keep prices steady. However, ongoing challenges such as rising production costs and weather-related disruptions in mining areas continued to exert pressure on the market.
Moving into Q2 2024, Sodium Chloride prices in India rose to INR 4356/MT, demonstrating an increased trend of 10% from Q1. This increase was driven by a rebound in demand from key industries such as food processing and chemical manufacturing, along with the seasonal uptick in consumption. Additionally, increased exports due to a resurgence in international demand contributed to this price growth. In the USA, similar trends were observed, with regional markets experiencing a rise in prices due to enhanced demand from various sectors.
By August 2024, Sodium Chloride prices in India reported at INR 4538/MT, marking an increase stabilized by 0.6% from July. This rise can be attributed to robust global demand, particularly from the food industry, as well as a rise in freight costs impacting imported supplies. In the USA, the abundant supply scenario continued to play a crucial role in maintaining price stability, although local demand pressures kept prices on a slight upward trajectory.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024, the Sodium Chloride market is expected to experience continued upward pressure on prices. Factors contributing to this trend may include heightened demand from the food and beverage sector during the holiday season, potential weather-related disruptions in production, and rising transportation costs.