In Q1 2024, the global Xanthan Gum market experienced a mixed trend. In China, the prices for Food grade Xanthan Gum were reported at USD 2,733/MT, while Oil Drilling grade prices stood at USD 2,946/MT. This marked a sharp decrease from the previous quarter by 34% and 31%, respectively. The decline was largely driven by a combination of decreased demand in key sectors and a shift towards alternative thickening agents. However, the food and beverage industry remained a steady consumer, providing some support to prices amidst this downturn.
Moving into Q2 2024, the Xanthan Gum market saw a positive shift. Prices for Food grade Xanthan Gum in China rose to USD 2,846/MT, reflecting a 4.1% increase from Q1. Conversely, Oil Drilling Grade prices decreased to USD 2,668/MT, showing a decline of 9.4%. Contributing factors to these changes included improved demand in the food sector due to seasonal trends and a more stable supply chain, although fluctuations in freight costs continued to impact the market dynamics. The resilience of the food industry was crucial in driving the overall demand for Xanthan Gum.
As of July 2024, the Xanthan Gum market was witnessing further upward movement, with Food grade prices reaching USD 3,100/MT, a notable increase of 6.9% from June 2024. Oil Drilling grade prices also showed a slight increase, priced at USD 2,710/MT, reflecting a positive trend of 2.3%. On a global scale, this upward momentum can be attributed to a resurgence in various industries, including food and cosmetics, coupled with supply chain adjustments that alleviated some previous bottlenecks. The demand for Xanthan Gum in the oil drilling sector, while still facing some challenges, began to stabilize as activity increased.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024, the Xanthan Gum market is anticipated to maintain its upward trajectory. The festive season could drive increased demand for food-grade products, likely putting further pressure on supply. Additionally, potential disruptions in shipping due to geopolitical tensions or adverse weather conditions could create a tighter market environment. Overall, as industries continue to rebound and demand rises, we can expect prices to remain elevated, reflecting the ongoing complexities of supply and demand dynamics in the Xanthan Gum market.