- Global calcium carbide prices followed a softening trend through Q1, with post-holiday corrections and inventory pressure outweighing earlier stability in key producing regions.
- Feedstock costs weakened as semi-coke prices declined, reducing cost support and forcing producers to lower prices to clear inventories.
- Downstream demand remained subdued, especially from PVC, with slow post-festival recovery limiting procurement and keeping market sentiment weak.
Asia
In Asia, the prices were about RMB 2.55/kg in January and around RMB 2.46/kg in March, with prices declining by about 3.96% from February to March. The market remained relatively stable in January ahead of the Chinese New Year, supported by steady production and pre-holiday stocking. After the Spring Festival, prices declined sharply due to logistical disruptions and inventory accumulation, as transport restrictions on hazardous materials delayed shipments and led to stock build-up in production regions. Supply remained high as plants continued operating, while demand weakened due to the slow resumption in downstream sectors, particularly PVC, which accounts for a major share of consumption. Weakening semi-coke costs further reduced price support, reinforcing the downward trend.
Europe
In Europe, the market followed a similar weak trajectory, influenced by subdued downstream demand and sufficient availability of material. Industrial activity remained cautious, limiting procurement of carbide-based intermediates. Supply chains remained stable, but weak consumption from construction-linked chemicals and plastics sectors restricted price recovery. Producers faced pressure to align prices with softer global trends, as demand failed to absorb available supply.
North America
In North America, calcium carbide prices also showed a mild downward bias, reflecting balanced-to-long supply conditions and cautious buying patterns. Downstream industries maintained controlled purchasing, avoiding bulk procurement amid uncertain demand recovery. Stable production levels and adequate inventories limited any upward movement, while weak global sentiment and reduced cost pressures kept the market subdued.