Lysine prices continue to be firm, while other major amino acids are mostly stable. Recent buying patterns and supply conditions have shaped subdued market activity, with many buyers already covered for upcoming quarters. The market is now watching for potential shifts as new capacity and pricing strategies evolve.
Lysine
Lysine manufacturers have been increasing prices further this week. Corn prices in China are firm, and there is a general desire from manufacturers to increase prices and go to a more sustainable business. A lot of buyers have already secured Q2 and a large portion of Q3 some time ago, when the price was lower, and are not in the market as such. Some buyers have been active this week to fill gaps. Other buyers are sceptical and expect prices to weaken again after the Chinese New Year.
Threonine
Prices from China are currently stable and show the first signs of stabilisation at a very low price level. Chinese suppliers prefer to sell lysine, which is a bit tighter, in combination with threonine, suggesting there is still some threonine sales pressure. While the first quarter is largely contracted, there remains a significant gap in the Q2 cover on average in most regions.
DL-Methionine
Despite attempts by several suppliers in Asia to raise prices for new business, the market has remained largely unaffected, with prices holding steady in most regions. Q2 demand is not yet apparent, as many buyers have already secured their contracts for the first quarter. So far, they are postponing purchases for the second quarter, as they want to see how the market will develop further.
Tryptophan
The market has become more active, although not in all regions yet. Suppliers express a clear desire to move away from this low pricing trend, but in most regions, the ongoing ample supply, coupled with stagnant demand, limits any upward movement. Prices have not gone any lower, though. Q1 is contracted, and since the price decline stopped, Q2 is contracted for a decent portion as well, since recently, as prices have been historically low.
Valine
Suppliers are still indicating limited volume availability for Q1, but for Q2, the availability seems to be back to normal again. Prices have remained somewhat elevated in most regions, taking into account anti-dumping duties as well. Q1 and a significant portion of Q2 are already contracted. Buyers are keen to observe how previously announced capacity expansions will be integrated into the market and the potential impact on prices.
