Methionine export prices firmed to start the week, supported by concerns over sulfur availability and rising upstream cost pressure, according to market sources. The midpoint of the Expana Benchmark Price for Methionine Solid FOB China was assessed at $5.25/kg on May 19, up $0.10/kg from the previous assessment.
Sources said sulfur supply had tightened since the escalation of the Gulf conflict, with uncertainty around logistics through the Strait of Hormuz continuing to support raw material concerns. Sulfur is a key upstream input for methionine production, and tighter availability has raised concerns over production costs and supply stability.
Market participants also noted that demand from the fertilizer sector was increasing competition for sulfur supply. China may strengthen controls over sulfur allocation, including possible quota-based supply management, with fertilizer production expected to be prioritised as agricultural demand rises in the coming months.
One source said sulfur availability had become a broader concern across both feed additives and fertilizer markets. If sulfur supply remains limited, fertilizer application could be reduced, potentially affecting soybean production and adding further upward pressure to soybean prices. While the impact of higher sulfur and oil-related costs has not yet fully passed through to downstream methionine markets, sources said the risk remained significant if geopolitical uncertainty continues.
One producer said it was offering DL-methionine at $5.50/kg CIF Southeast Asia, adding that some buyers were still delaying procurement decisions on expectations that prices could ease later.
A buyer said the lowest tradeable export price was around $5.20/kg FOB China, while domestic prices were heard at CNY 38.00-39.00/kg, mainly from traders.
The same source said export traders were purchasing material at around CNY 38.00/kg in China’s domestic market and reselling at approximately $5.20/kg FOB China, leaving an estimated margin of around $0.30/kg.
Overall, sources said export prices were supported by upstream sulfur uncertainty, but buying remained cautious as some buyers continued to wait for clearer price direction.
Image source: Adobe
Written by Lydia Ma
