Sorbitol Prices

Sorbitol Prices December 2023

The sorbitol prices in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 755 USD/MT in December. The market demonstrated resilience with prices stabilizing despite an initial decline. This stability was supported by a steady supply of corn starch and a market well-supplied with inventories. Downstream industries adapted to market conditions with timely purchasing strategies, maintaining supply-demand stability.

The price trend for sorbitol in China for Q4 2023, reached 659 USD/MT in December. The quarter began with decreased prices due to high stockpiles and subdued demand. However, as the quarter advanced, demand surged, prompting increased production and tighter market conditions. Strategic inventory replenishment was crucial in responding to market shifts and stabilizing prices.

The price trend for sorbitol in France for Q4 2023, reached 119 USD/MT in December. The market fluctuated, starting with a drop in prices due to an exceptional corn harvest that led to an oversupply. However, the market recovered mid-quarter as demand increased, driven by seasonal consumer activity, which led to a moderate increase in sorbitol prices by the end of the quarter.

Sorbitol Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Sorbitol Pricing Report 2024: Price Trend, Chart, Market Analysis, News, Demand, Historical and Forecast Data,” offers an in-depth analysis of sorbitol pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

It encompasses an in-depth review of spot price of sorbitol at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of sorbitol price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing sorbitol price fluctuations, such as changes in raw material costs, supply-demand dynamics, geopolitical factors, and industry-specific developments. Additionally, it integrates the latest market news, providing stakeholders with up-to-date information on market shifts, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, thereby offering a comprehensive overview that aids in strategic decision-making and forecasting.

Sorbitol Market Analysis

The global sorbitol market size reached 2.7 Million Tons in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 3 Million Tons, at a projected CAGR of 1.00% during 2023-2032.

• The extensive use of sorbitol in various industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage (F&B), chemicals, and personal care represents one of the key factors influencing the growth of the sorbitol market across the globe. The rising health consciousness among consumers, coupled with increasing demand for healthier alternatives to sugar are contributing to the market growth. The growing demand for low-calorie sweeteners, humectants, and sugar substitutes in several sectors is driving the growth of the market.
• The sorbitol demand is further amplified by the rising prevalence of diabetic patients and the growing utilization of sugar-free and low-calorie products. According to the National Diabetes Statistics Report, 2023, From 2001 to 2021, diabetes prevalence significantly increased among US adults 18 or older. 38.4 million people have diabetes that’s 11.6% of the US population. 29.7 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes. 8.7 million people who have diabetes have not been diagnosed and do not know they have it. This is further boosting the market growth.
• Sorbitol is also used as an excipient in formulations and sweetening agents in tablets, syrups, and oral medications. According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, Prescription drug use in the United States has reached record levels, reaching 6.3 billion prescriptions approximately 19 prescriptions for every American filled in 2020 alone (IQVIA Institute for Human Data Science 2021). This is further facilitating the growth of the market.
• The increasing demand for cosmetic and personal care products is propelling the market growth. This is primarily due to the extensive usage of sorbitol in the personal care and cosmetic industry for its humectant and moisturizing properties which is driving the growth of the market.
• Rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and increasing disposable income are also contributing to the demand for sorbitol, thus driving the market growth. According to the World Bank, some 56% of the world’s population 4.4 billion inhabitants live in cities which is expected to continue, with the urban population more than doubling its current size by 2050, at which point nearly 7 of 10 people will live in cities.
• Regulatory initiatives aimed at reducing sugar consumption and promoting healthier food choices are creating a positive outlook for the market. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the government in the eastern Mediterranean region implemented a policy based on the WHO guidelines specifying that all individuals’ children and adults should consume less than 10%, or preferably 5%, of free sugars in their diet.

Sorbitol News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global sorbitol market, providing stakeholders with timely and relevant information. This segment covers a wide array of news items, including the inauguration of new production facilities, advancements in sorbitol production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the sorbitol price trend.

Latest developments in the sorbitol industry:

• In 2023, Merck, a leading science and technology company, announced an agreement with the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to support expansion plans at its semiconductor manufacturing site in Hometown. This expansion is part of Merck's Level Up growth program, announced by its electronics business sector in late 2021, which aims to invest over € 3 billion in innovation and capacity expansion projects by 2025.
• In 2022, Ingredion Incorporated, a leading global provider of value-added ingredient solutions, strengthened the global sustainable ingredients supply chain for food and beverage (F&B) producers with the opening of Shandong South, a new production plant in Shandong, China. This latest launch doubles Ingredion’s starch production capacity and capabilities in the country.
• According to an article published in the Business Standard, Gujarat Ambuja Exports announced that it has successfully commissioned a 100 tonnes per day (TPD) Sorbitol unit at the company's existing unit in Hubli, Karnataka. With this the company becomes the largest Sorbitol manufacturer in India with a cumulative capacity of 500 TPD at 4 locations, Gujarat Ambuja said in a statement.

Product Description

Sorbitol refers to a type of carbohydrate that falls into the category of sugar alcohols, also known as polyols. It occurs naturally in fruits and vegetables or can be produced synthetically from glucose.

Chemically, it is a polyhydric alcohol with a sweet taste, but lower sweetness intensity compared to sucrose.

Commercially, sorbitol is utilized to preserve moisture, provide texture to products, and add sweetness, along with potentially supporting oral and digestive health.

Sorbitol consists of approximately 2/3 of the calories of table sugar and provides about 60% sweetness. It is extensively employed as a sugar substitute in food and beverage (F&B) products, especially those targeted towards individuals with diabetes or those seeking to reduce calorie intake.

Sorbitol also serves as a moisturizing agent in personal care products such as skincare, haircare, and oral care items due to its humectant properties. In the pharmaceutical industry, sorbitol functions as an excipient in formulations and oral medications, providing sweetness, texture, and bulk to tablets, syrups, and suspensions. Its versatility and multiple applications make it a valuable ingredient in several industries.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the sorbitol market across different regions, each with unique pricing dynamics influenced by localized market conditions, supply chain intricacies, and geopolitical factors. This includes price trends, price forecast and supply and demand trends for each region, along with spot prices by major ports. The report also provides coverage of ex-works, FOB, and CIF prices, as well as the key factors influencing the sorbitol price trend.

Global Sorbitol Price

The report offers a holistic view of the global sorbitol pricing trends in the form of sorbitol price charts, reflecting the worldwide interplay of supply-demand balances, international trade policies, and overarching economic factors that shape the market on a macro level. This comprehensive analysis not only highlights the current price but also provides insights into sorbitol historical price trends, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes.

The report also delves into sorbitol price forecast models, projecting future price movements based on a variety of indicators such as expected changes in supply chain dynamics, anticipated policy shifts, and emerging market trends. By examining these factors, the report equips industry participants with the necessary tools to make informed strategic decisions, manage risks, and capitalize on market opportunities. Furthermore, it includes a detailed sorbitol demand analysis, breaking down regional variations and identifying key drivers specific to each geographic market, thus offering a nuanced understanding of the global pricing landscape.

Europe Sorbitol Price

The European sorbitol market saw varied price movements in the latter part of 2023. Prices fell initially due to an abundant corn harvest, surpassing market expectations and leading to an oversupply of the raw material. Traders had previously stocked up, anticipating a rise in demand which did not materialize as expected, compelling adjustments in stock levels. However, towards the middle of the quarter, demand picked up, likely driven by increased consumer activities during the holiday season, which pushed prices upward. This period highlighted the volatile nature of the market, influenced by both seasonal demand fluctuations and agricultural outputs.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed sorbitol price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Sorbitol Price

Throughout Q4 2023, the North American market maintained steady conditions. The market initially experienced a minor price drop, due to an ample sorbitol supply, fueled by stable corn starch production. The downward price trend was further influenced by a surplus in local corn production, particularly with new corn from northeastern regions influencing the market. Despite this, sorbitol prices stabilized later in the quarter due to balanced market demand and well-managed inventory levels. The purchasing strategy of downstream sectors shifted towards just-in-time acquisitions, reflecting a cautious approach to stock management and pricing.

Specific sorbitol historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Sorbitol Price

The report explores the sorbitol pricing trends in the Middle East and Africa, considering factors like regional industrial growth, the availability of natural resources, and geopolitical tensions that uniquely influence market prices.

In addition to region-wise data, information on sorbitol prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Sorbitol Price

In Asia Pacific, the market encountered several ups and downs during Q4 2023. The period started with declining prices due to high supply, leading to a slowdown in manufacturing. This trend was exacerbated by a decrease in demand from downstream industries and a reduction in new inquiries for sorbitol. As the quarter progressed, market conditions shifted with increased inquiries and restocking, spurred by a surge in demand that tightened the market. Power outages during the quarter unexpectedly raised production costs and influenced market dynamics, necessitating strategic inventory management to stabilize supply-demand relations.

This sorbitol price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Sorbitol Price

The analysis of sorbitol prices in Latin America provides a detailed overview, reflecting the unique market dynamics in the region influenced by economic policies, industrial growth, and trade frameworks.

This comprehensive review can be extended to include specific countries within the region.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of sorbitol pricing, covering global and regional trends, spot prices at key ports, and a breakdown of Ex Works, FOB, and CIF prices.
• The study examines factors affecting sorbitol price trend, including raw material costs, supply-demand shifts, geopolitical impacts, and industry developments, offering insights for informed decision-making.
• The competitive landscape review equips stakeholders with crucial insights into the latest market news, regulatory changes, and technological advancements, ensuring a well-rounded, strategic overview for forecasting and planning.
• IMARC offers various subscription options, including monthly, quarterly, and biannual updates, allowing clients to stay informed with the latest market trends, ongoing developments, and comprehensive market insights. The sorbitol price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.