Amino acids markets see stable lysine and methionine amid tariff shifts
Amino acids markets remain relatively stable as key products like lysine and methionine hold their ground despite shifting global trade dynamics. Recent US tariff exemptions on lysine HCl, threonine, tryptophan, and valine have helped keep domestic prices steady by avoiding added import costs. Meanwhile, European markets see some price pressure due to currency shifts and anti-dumping measures. (Market update week 19)
In partnership with Feed Additive Prices
Lysine
So far prices in the USA have remained stable as lysine hcl is exempt from the latest round of import tariffs. In China FOB prices for export have remained stable, suppliers are not willing to lower the price any further it seems. Prices in Europe are weak as the EUR became significantly stronger last weeks to the USD plus container freight is also weakening. Revised anti-dumping duties have been communicated by the EU, leading to even lower prices in Europe. The market is quiet, and most buyers have a wait-and-see attitude. Q2 is mostly contracted, but Q3 still needs to be contracted for the biggest part.
Threonine
Very quiet market and prices in the USA, plus China has been stable for some time now. Threonine in the USA is exempt from the latest tariffs. Prices in Europe have been slightly weaker because of the recent EUR-USD rate. Q2 and a good portion of Q3 are already contracted and buyers remain on the sideline for now as they have no need to buy anything.
DL-Methionine
Methionine prices in the USA remain stable despite the highest tariffs, as there appears to be sufficient older stock and ample local supply. Similarly, prices FOB China have stabilised after a slight increase, while European prices have also remained steady, with recent hikes offset by favourable EUR-USD exchange rates. Announcements regarding plant maintenance have not significantly impacted market prices, and both Q2 contracts are robust, with a small portion of Q3 already secured.
Tryptophan
Prices remain stable to weak across most regions due to an oversupply of tryptophan, while fluctuations in currency exchange rates have further contributed to lower local prices. Additionally, tryptophan in the USA benefits from an exemption from recent tariffs, and no significant trend changes are anticipated in the short term as Q2 contracts are already in place.
Valine
Prices for Chinese origin have been falling, as valine is oversupplied. Prices for Western origin in for example Europe are stable to firm and the spread with Chinese origin is increasing due to the anti-dumping investigation. The price in other regions is mostly stable. In the USA valine is exempt from the latest tariffs. Q2 is contracted.
