Chinese New Year challenges MSM and soy protein isolate supply [64th Edition of ADDITIVES Newsletter]

Welcome to the Partners!

Welcome back to our newsletter!

In this edition of our newsletter, we focus on key developments that are shaping key products in the chemical and food market. From anti-dumping investigations to the upcoming challenges of the Chinese New Year, gain insight into how changes in global logistics and rising costs are affecting availability and prices. Get ready for exciting news, including Foodcom’s entry into Japan and dynamics in the n-butanol market. Read on to gain an edge and always stay on top of market trends!

Let’s take a look at what else is happening in the market!

Choline chloride 60% (Vitamin B4)

The European Union has launched an investigation into the dumping prices of choline chloride imported from China, following complaints from major European producers. The investigation covers all forms of choline chloride with a minimum content of 30%, including the popular 60% variant, widely used in animal feed, especially for poultry and pigs. The product is also used in human nutrition and the petroleum industry. The EU is to investigate whether low prices for these products from China are harming EU companies. First decisions are likely to be taken by the end of May 2025 and final measures could be imposed by November next year.

We encourage you to read the interesting article : Alphabet of Vitamin Supplementation in Animal Nutrition

Organic sulphur

The approaching Chinese New Year is generating increased interest in MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), which is widely used as a natural source of sulphur in supplements to support joint and bone health. MSM is mainly imported from China and the festive period in that country may affect its availability, causing delays in supply and price increases. Additionally, rising sea freight costs are translating into higher prices in the European market.

Soy protein isolate

Soy Protein Isolate, like MSM, is a largely imported product from China, which means that its availability may be limited due to the upcoming Chinese New Year. The product is of growing interest due to its nutritional value – it is an excellent source of plant protein with a wide range of applications in the food industry, particularly in the production of vegan and vegetarian foods. Due to anticipated disruptions in production and logistics, as well as rising transport costs, we suggest ordering early to avoid difficulties with its availability and price.

Connecting with Japan – Foodcom S.A. launches dedicated website

Foodcom S.A. is entering the Japanese market with an unwavering determination and commitment to innovation. Our newly launched dedicated Japanese landing page sets a new benchmark in the industry, facilitating seamless connections between us and customers who demand excellence and reliability. By breaking down barriers and building strategic partnerships, we are redefining standards and creating value in one of the world’s most dynamic markets.

Click here to explore our new landing page! The future of the industry is here – be a part of it today.

Global

The global n-butanol market is showing mixed trends in early November 2024, due to a combination of different economic and seasonal factors. Prices for n-butanol have increased in some regions due to limited supply and higher feedstock costs, while other areas have seen price declines due to weakening demand in key sectors such as paints, coatings and chemicals, which have also struggled with production challenges. These divergent trends are expected to continue and the market is expected to remain volatile until global economic conditions stabilise, further highlighting the complexity of the chemical market situation during this period.

South Asia

India has announced the construction of its first methanol plant in the state of Telangana, an important step towards reducing the country’s dependence on imported fuels and accelerating its energy transition. The new plant will be built as part of a collaboration between Assam Petrochemicals Limited and the Telangana state government and will allow methanol to be produced in a greener way, supporting the country’s plans to develop alternative energy sources. The plant will meet domestic demand for methanol, but will also boost the local economy, creating new jobs and supporting the development of the chemical industry in the region.