The vitamin market continues to show mixed trends across regions and products, with overall activity subdued by existing contracts and seasonal factors. Prices range from stable to slightly firmer, despite some supply adjustments among major manufacturers. Looking ahead, most participants remain cautious as they await shifts in demand later in the year.
In partnership with Feed Additive Prices
Vitamin E 50%
Suppliers are increasingly demanding higher prices or refusing to make offers altogether. Prices are stable or even firmer in several regions. But the demand for additional material is limited as longer-term contracts are already in place. Last week, a prominent Western manufacturer of vitamin E divested its animal nutrition business. Q1 and the majority of Q2 have been contracted, with suppliers not yet active in the Q3 market.
Vitamin A 1000
The market continues to be in a relatively calm state. Prices are low and mostly stable in all regions. Some exceptions are seen, where there is still some sales pressure and/or desire to move stock. A major Western manufacturer of vitamin A 1000 sold its animal nutrition business last week—watch for potential impacts on the segment’s future strategy and their vitamin portfolio. Q1 and a portion of Q2 are contracted.
Vitamin D3 500
In recent weeks, the price of vitamin D3 500 has seen a gradual decline, although still at a relatively high price level. Especially on a FOB China basis, prices have weakened. In other regions, the rate of this drop has begun to stabilise for now. Q1 contracts were already concluded some time ago, but the cover for Q2 is still relatively low as buyers remain on the side line and mostly buy spot.
Vitamin B2 80%
In Europe, slightly firmer prices have been reported, with one of the main manufacturers said to have supply issues. Apart from that, supply is said to be okay in most regions, and prices show an overall stable tone. Q1 and a good portion of Q2 are contracted.
D-Calpan
Market activity is currently calm, with prices remaining mostly stable or experiencing slight declines still in some regions. Supply levels are reported to be good, and suppliers are keen to maintain their market presence. Q1 is fully contracted, and because of the low price, a good portion of Q2 is contracted as well.
Vitamin B3
The slightly firmer tone is still ongoing, and some buying activity is also still seen, although slowing down now. Contracts for the first quarter have been secured, and a significant portion of the second quarter is also now committed.
Biotin
Recently, the prices for biotin came down a bit after a long and steady period. Although suppliers would actually like to see prices rise, the market dynamics have resulted in a slight decline. A good portion of Q2 is contracted by now, and the market is relatively quiet.
Vitamin C 35% mono
Current, the demand for vitamin C products remains relatively low, keeping prices stable. Market participants do not foresee any significant changes until fresh demand potentially arises after the Chinese New Year holiday. Q1 and a good portion of Q2 have been contracted.
