Challenges and Hopes: Interpretation of Carbon Black Price Trends in the First Quarter of 2024

　　In today's era of economic globalization and geopolitical changes, market intelligence and research have become an indispensable part of business operations. The fiercely competitive environment makes understanding market information and trends critical for businesses to maintain profitability and leadership. "Procurement Resources" magazine focuses on the global chemicals market, providing intelligence such as carbon black market prices, providing customers with data-supported insights to help them make informed purchasing decisions. In addition to paid market research reports, the magazine also regularly reports publicly on carbon black price trends in major regions around the world.

　　Recent reports show that carbon black price changes in major global regions in the first quarter of this year are as follows:

　　**Asia:** In the first three months, carbon black prices in Asian countries fluctuated. The tire and automotive industries in China and India have witnessed significant growth, which is expected to stimulate demand and production for carbon black. However, as procurement rates stagnated, there was an imbalance between supply and demand in the market. As the quarter ends, the overall market trend begins to improve, giving traders a glimmer of hope.

　　**Europe:** Although the European carbon black market showed some signs of growth at the end of the fourth quarter of last year, it still faces multiple challenges. Rising crude oil prices, tightening sanctions on Russian imports and attacks on Asian shipping lines have stoked concerns among producers and traders. In addition, rising interest rates and higher energy prices have dampened the consumption of carbon black derivatives. EU environmental regulations and recycling mandates have increased the burden on tire producers, while global shipping disruptions and container shortages have pushed up transportation costs. Throughout the first quarter, carbon black prices in the European market were at a loss.

　　**North America:** In North America, the carbon black market is affected by changes in demand from downstream industries such as automotive, plastics, coatings and printing inks. Only the automotive industry is showing positive growth, while other industries are struggling to sustain themselves under severe market conditions. Low demand has led to a significant build-up in carbon black inventories, with traders stimulating destocking activities by offering discounts on bulk purchases. The raw oil industry has provided limited support to the market, causing carbon black price trends to remain low.

　　Analysts from "Procurement Resources" magazine pointed out that considering the short-term prospects of the global carbon black downstream industry and fluctuations in raw material costs, carbon black price trends will face challenges.