In the first quarter, Sodium Sulphate prices had risen due to increased energy costs, which had led to higher production expenses. The industries that had used Sodium Sulphate for bleaching had shown steady demand, resulting in ongoing needs from these sectors. Moreover, Sodium Sulphate prices from key countries like China had been high. After the conclusion of the first quarter, Sodium Sulphate anhydrous prices had been assessed at USD 115/MT in China.
In the second quarter, Sodium Sulphate prices had been USD 450 FOB Qingdao, China, reflecting an increase of 6.4%. The demand for Sodium Sulphate had surged largely due to increased construction activities and industrial production, particularly in glass manufacturing. Germany had experienced a considerable decrease in Sodium Sulphate prices. Demand from the laundry and household care industries had been supported by strong sales from leading companies such as Henkel. There had been a link between the decrease in Sodium Sulphate anhydrous demand and the stable availability of the material, despite geopolitical conflicts affecting key shipping routes. The price of Sodium Sulphate anhydrous in Germany had been USD 245 per metric ton in Hamburg.
In the third quarter, the demand for Sodium Sulphate has remained stable in Germany, primarily driven by the glass manufacturing and detergent sectors. Additionally, Sodium Sulphate demand has increased by approximately 5% due to seasonal cleaning activities during the summer months. While overall availability has stayed steady, minor constraints have been observed due to logistical challenges affecting timely distribution. Price levels have averaged around USD 247 per metric ton in Hamburg, reflecting the balance between robust demand and supply chain dynamics.
In the fourth quarter, the growing demand for Sodium Sulphate from the building sector, fuelled by a range of engineering initiatives, will have greatly increased Sodium Sulphate prices worldwide. Moreover, the increasing appeal of powdered soaps in various areas will have further boosted Sodium Sulphate demand. Additionally, the rising popularity of powdered detergents in different regions will have contributed to the overall increase in Sodium Sulphate demand.