Asia
Throughout Q1’25, the Asian thiourea market experienced significant downward pressure as regional production capacities exceeded demand requirements. Chinese manufacturers, who dominate global production, operated at higher utilization rates following the Lunar New Year period, creating an oversupplied market condition. Downstream industries, particularly electroplating and metal finishing sectors, showed reluctance in procurement amid economic uncertainties in key markets like China and India.
The reduced logistics costs, following the easing of port congestion in major Chinese export hubs, further contributed to the softening prices. Japanese and South Korean buyers took advantage of this situation by adopting a cautious purchasing approach, primarily focusing on securing smaller volumes at favorable terms rather than committing to long-term contracts.
Europe
The European thiourea market displayed a relatively stable to soft trend during Q1’25. Prices initially held firm in January but gradually declined through February and March as imported material from Asia, particularly China, became more accessible and price-competitive. European manufacturers faced margin pressures due to high energy costs despite some moderation in natural gas prices compared to previous quarters. Demand from the agricultural sector remained seasonally low, while industrial applications showed limited growth.
The textile and rubber industries, significant consumers of thiourea in Europe, maintained minimal inventory levels and purchased primarily on a need-basis, reflecting overall market caution. Western European consumers benefited from this buyer-friendly market, leveraging the availability of multiple supply sources to negotiate more favorable terms.
North America
North American thiourea prices followed a similar downward trajectory during Q1’25, albeit with less volatility than observed in other regions. The market was characterized by sufficient supply availability, both from domestic production and imports. U.S. manufacturers maintained stable production levels despite facing competition from lower-priced Asian imports.
The mining sector, a key application area for thiourea in North America, showed modest demand as gold extraction activities continued at a steady pace. However, agricultural applications experienced seasonal lows typical of the winter period. The gradual easing of import tariffs on certain chemical intermediates also contributed to the softening price trend by allowing more competitive international material to enter the market.