MSG stabilizes as supply comes into balance. (Markets: Pharmaceuticals & Fine Chemicals).(Monosodium glutamate )

Chemical Market Reporter, June, 2003 by Krause, Carey

THE MARKET for monosodium glutamate (MSG) is steady after a period of healthy demand in Asia. Producers are operating to capacity and are raising volumes industry-wide. Asian producers have increased shipments to Europe because of the recent favorable currency effects, although Asian producers have also recently faced higher transportation costs.

MSG producers across the board have nominated price increases as a result of the stronger euro. The euro has risen against the US dollar by roughly 26 percent over the past year, according to Morgan Stanley. List prices for MSG increased to $1.30 per kg in 2003 from $1.20 per kg in 2002, according to Leo Hepner, director of L. Hepner and Associates Ltd., a London-based consultancy. Product in China is at $1.00 per...

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