The US oleic acid markets strengthened significantly in February ****, with prices rising by *.*** as buyers rushed to secure food-grade material against a backdrop of firmer feedstock costs and logistical challenges. The early February saw heightened import interest, particularly as replacement costs from Southeast Asia and Argentina increased. Additionally, mid-month policy changes in Indonesia tightened export allocations of oleic acid, creating further pressure on supply. By mid-to-late February, monsoon-related port delays in Malaysia and rail tank car shortages along the Gulf Coast compounded logistics issues, prompting prompt buying in anticipation of the spring cosmetics launch season and summer production cycles.
The demand dynamics played a crucial role in shaping oleic acid landed prices in the US import market. The Food & Beverage segment remained exceptionally strong, with emulsifier makers and edible-oil processors ramping up intake of oleic acid to support products such as...
Leave a Comment
Comments (0)