I. Price Trend
According to the commodity market analysis system of Business Society, bromine prices showed an overall upward trend this month. The average market price at the beginning of the month was 36,100 yuan/ton, while the average market price at the end of the month was 41,400 yuan/ton, representing a price increase of 14.68% and a year-on-year increase of 89.91%. On December 30, the Business Society Bromine Index stood at 125.61, unchanged from the previous day. Compared to the cycle's highest point of 245.18 (October 27, 2021), it decreased by 48.77%, while compared to the lowest point of 58.92 (October 29, 2014), it increased by 113.19%. (Note: The cycle refers to the period from September 1, 2011, to the present.)

II. Market Analysis
This week, bromine prices in the Shandong region remained firm. The ex-factory quotations in Shandong ranged from 39,000 to 44,000 yuan/ton, with the mainstream price hovering around 41,500 yuan/ton. Inventory replenishment was limited, and supply continued to tighten. However, downstream buyers adopted a wait-and-see approach, resulting in subdued market activity. Downstream demand remained moderate. The cautious sentiment in the bromine market persisted, with a tense balance between supply and demand, leading to weak actual transactions.

In terms of raw materials: Domestic sulfur prices rose during the month. The average market price at the beginning of the month was 3,661 yuan/ton, while the average market price at the end of the month was 4,210 yuan/ton, representing a price increase of 15% and a year-on-year increase of 147.99%.

Forecast: Bromine prices are expected to remain strong in the near term. Upstream sulfur prices have also shown strength this month. Bromine supply remains tight, and imports are limited. However, downstream buyers continue to purchase based on demand, maintaining a cautious procurement approach, resulting in an overall subdued market atmosphere. It is anticipated that bromine prices may rise initially and then consolidate, depending on downstream market demand.