super absorbent polymer Pricing Assessment

Markets Covered:

Korea

China

India

United States

Brazil

Bangladesh

Philippines

Indonesia

Super Absorbent Polymer Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2024, the global Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) market experienced a slight bearish trend, primarily influenced by reduced demand and a downward shift in prices. In East Asia, particularly in China, SAP prices were reported at $1232/MT, reflecting a decrease of 4.86% from the previous quarter. This decline was driven by lower consumption of SAP in key sectors like hygiene products and agriculture, as well as shifts in market dynamics. Despite this decrease, strong demand from healthcare and personal care industries in South Korea helped stabilize prices in the region.

In Q2 2024, the bearish trend continued as SAP prices in China dropped further to $1195/MT, a 3% decrease from Q1. The dip was attributed to low demand for hygiene products, specifically in the baby diaper and adult incontinence markets, which are significant consumers of SAP. Additionally, unfavourable agricultural conditions reduced demand for SAP in water retention applications. Rising production costs, driven by elevated raw material prices and persistent logistical challenges, further dampened market sentiment, contributing to declining prices.

By Q3 2024, SAP prices had slightly decreased, with July 2024 prices in China at $1192/MT, marking a marginal stabilization of 0.25% compared to Q2. This stability was largely due to abundant supply globally, as several manufacturers ramped up production amid lower demand. However, the global market still faced logistical bottlenecks, particularly in Asia, where shipping delays and container shortages continued to impact the overall market balance. A slowdown in demand from the hygiene sector, coupled with steady agricultural consumption, prevented any significant price recovery.

Looking ahead to Q4 2024, the SAP market is expected to experience a mild recovery as demand from the packaging and healthcare sectors picks up ahead of the festive season. Anticipated stronger consumption from the agriculture sector, driven by improved weather conditions, may also boost demand. However, challenges such as ongoing supply chain disruptions, fluctuating freight rates, and elevated production costs are likely to keep upward pressure on prices, despite the possibility of abundant supply continuing to balance the market.

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Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in super absorbent polymer prices

Energy Crisis in Europe (2022-2023): The European energy crisis, triggered by the Russia-Ukraine conflict, led to rising energy costs for SAP manufacturers. This resulted in increased production expenses, causing prices to rise across Europe and impacting global SAP markets.

COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): During the pandemic, the SAP market experienced significant fluctuations. Initial declines in demand were followed by a surge as the need for personal hygiene products, such as masks and sanitizing wipes, increased. This led to price volatility, especially as production capacities were stretched to meet demand.

Global Supply Glut (2017): Oversupply of SAP in major markets, particularly in Asia, caused a significant decline in prices. Manufacturers in China and South Korea ramped up production capacities, leading to abundant supply and putting downward pressure on prices.

Methodology and Specifications

Price-Watch super absorbent polymer Pricing Assessment Research Methodology

Data Collection and Sources

Real-Time Market Data: Price-Watch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions.

On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Super Absorbent Polymer production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.

Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Super Absorbent Polymer supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g. acrylic acid) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis

Geopolitical Tensions: Price-Watch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Super Absorbent Polymer prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.

Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Super Absorbent Polymer production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks.

Economic Shifts: Price-Watch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., Hygiene products, Agriculture), to predict shifts in Super Absorbent Polymer demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Super Absorbent Polymer production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately.

Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Super Absorbent Polymer production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization.

Demand Forecasting

Sectoral Demand Analysis: Price-Watch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including hygiene, agriculture, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments.

Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Super Absorbent Polymer pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

Dynamic Pricing Models: Price-Watch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Super Absorbent Polymer prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power.

Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations.

Ongoing Support: Price-Watch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice.

This research methodology ensures that Price-Watch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Super Absorbent Polymer pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

150,000 to 300,000 g/mol

CAS No

61788-39-4

HS Code

39069090

Molecular Formula

[−CH2−CH(CO2Na) −]n

super absorbent polymer

Super Absorbent Polymer (SAP) is a highly versatile and innovative material designed to absorb and retain large quantities of liquid relative to its own mass. Typically made from cross-linked polymers, SAP is primarily used in applications such as hygiene products (diapers, adult incontinence pads, and feminine hygiene products), agricultural practices (soil moisture retention), and medical applications (wound care). Known for its exceptional absorbent capacity and rapid moisture retention, SAP can absorb up to 300 times its weight in water, transforming liquids into gel-like substances. This property not only enhances product performance but also contributes to improved comfort and efficiency.

Packaging Type

N/A

Grades Covered

Diaper Grade

Incoterms Used

FOB Shanghai, FOB Busan, CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea), CIF Nhava Sheva (China), Ex Vadodara, CIF Houston (South Korea), CIF Santos (South Korea), CIF Chittagong (Bangladesh), CIF Manilla (China), CIF Jakarta (China)

Synonym

Slush powder, Water-absorbing polymers

Price-Watch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Property	Specification
Form	White Powder
pH	5.5-6.5
Bulk Density	560-720 g/L
Surface Tension	<72 dyne/cm

Applications

Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) have a wide range of applications, primarily due to their ability to absorb and retain large amounts of liquid relative to their own weight. The most common application of SAP is in hygiene products, such as baby diapers, adult incontinence pads, and sanitary napkins, where their ability to lock in moisture helps keep the skin dry and comfortable. Beyond hygiene, SAPs are also used in agriculture to improve soil water retention, reducing the need for frequent irrigation and aiding in drought-prone areas. They also find use in packaging materials, as well as in controlling water in cables and fire-fighting gels.

Disclaimer

Super Absorbent Polymer price provided by Price-Watch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for super absorbent polymer. Price-Watch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

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Frequently asked questions

What factors affect the pricing of Super Absorbent Polymers in the global market? +

The pricing of Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of raw materials such as acrylic acid and sodium hydroxide, production capacities, and technological advancements in manufacturing processes. Fluctuations in demand from industries like personal hygiene, agriculture, and medical sectors also play a significant role. Additionally, environmental regulations and the push for sustainable production methods can impact costs.

How do fluctuations in raw material costs impact Super Absorbent Polymer pricing? +

Raw material costs, particularly for acrylic acid, are a critical determinant of Super Absorbent Polymer pricing. When there are increases in the prices of these feedstocks due to supply chain disruptions, geopolitical tensions, or changes in production levels, it typically leads to higher SAP prices. Conversely, a decrease in raw material costs can result in lower SAP prices.

What are the regional price variations for Super Absorbent Polymers, and how can they influence procurement decisions? +

Super Absorbent Polymer prices can vary significantly across regions due to differences in production capacities, local demand, and availability of raw materials. For instance, countries like China and South Korea may offer more competitive pricing due to established production facilities and abundant feedstock access.