Cumene Prices

Cumene Price Trend and Forecast

Track the latest insights on cumene price trend and forecast with detailed analysis of regional fluctuations and market dynamics across Europe, North America, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.

Cumene Prices Q4 2024

During the fourth quarter of 2024, the cumene prices in the United States reached 972 USD/Ton in December. The market was impacted by persistent weak demand from downstream sectors such as phenol and bisphenol, leading to subdued pricing. Supply chain disruptions, exacerbated by strikes at key ports, added to the uncertainty. Despite relatively stable domestic production levels, manufacturers opted for steady pricing to avoid further market deterioration. Although propylene prices remained weak, cost pressures remained manageable, and the overall market outlook stayed bearish due to a lack of significant demand recovery.

In the fourth quarter of 2024, cumene prices in China reached 956 USD/Ton in December. The market faced downward price pressure, largely due to weak demand in main industrial sectors, including phenol and bisphenol. The impact of decreased feedstock expenses, especially propylene, compounded the lack of activity in end users, particularly in the context of broader economic challenges. The country’s production activity remained weak, which, along with moderate supply constraints, led to a subdued market environment. As a result, the market outlook in China remained cautious and downward-facing throughout the quarter.

During the fourth quarter of 2024, cumene pricing in Europe reached 1,383 USD/Ton in December. The market was marked by weak demand and subdued pricing. A slowdown in production activity and a decline in petrochemical production contributed to the downtrend. While some regions, including Spain, showed a slight recovery, these gains were inadequate to reverse the more comprehensive regional downturn. Producers kept prices stable to avoid further market deterioration, while manufacturing expenses remained low due to inefficient feedstock costs. Economic unpredictability and geopolitical concerns continued to cloud the market’s outlook.

Cumene Prices Q3 2024

The cumene prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 991 USD/Ton in Septeember. The market experienced a significant price drop, driven by fluctuating feedstock prices and economic uncertainty. While global oil prices had an impact, weak demand from industries like petrochemicals and solvents kept downward pressure on prices. Strikes at key United States ports added to supply chain disruptions, increasing delays and costs. Producers maintained stable rates to avoid further market deterioration, while managing production costs amid falling naphtha prices.

The price trend for cumene in China for Q3 2024 reached 1,094 USD/Ton in September. The market faced mixed trends, with prices rising in the early part of the quarter because of stronger demand expectations. Positive local naphtha trends and increased activity in downstream sectors like styrene helped support price growth. However, global trade faced ongoing challenges due to port congestion, particularly in India and Singapore. Despite these disruptions, the market began to stabilize, with inventory management and strategic production scheduling becoming critical for navigating the complex environment.

The price trend for cumene in Europe for Q3 2024, reached 1,465 USD/Ton in September. The market saw a notable decline in prices, largely due to weak demand from industries like polycarbonates, paints, and agrochemicals. Labor strikes at major ports disrupted operations, creating further supply chain challenges. Although some regions saw mild recovery, overall, the market remained under pressure. Producers reduced output as financial pressures grew, and the relationship between naphtha prices and production costs continued to drive downward price movements.

Cumene Prices Q2 2024

Cumene prices in the United States for Q2 2024 reached 370 USD/MT in June. The market faced a steady decline in prices, impacted by weak demand in downstream sectors like acetone and phenol production. Crude oil prices, seasonal slowdowns in construction, and hurricane related disruptions in petrochemical production intensified these pressures, causing a challenging pricing environment across the quarter.

The price trend for cumene in China for Q2 2024 settled at 1,070 USD/MT in June. The market experienced stable pricing, supported by a balanced alignment of supply and demand consistent inventory levels and moderate imports help the market avoid major fluctuations, even during global uncertainties. Minimal seasonal impact and steady requirement from acetone and phenol sectors contributed to this equilibrium, creating a well-maintained pricing stability.

In Belgium, cumene prices for Q2 2024 reached 1,250 USD/MT in June. The market saw a notable price decline on account of subdued demand in solvent related sectors and low production expenses linked to weak naphtha prices. Economic sluggishness and limited construction activity compounded the pressure on prices, while seasonal factors further reduced market activity in the latter half of the quarter.

Cumene Prices Q4 2023

The cumene prices in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 1453 USD/MT in December. The market saw reduced prices due to a combination of oversupply and diminished demand from key sectors like polycarbonate and coatings. Lower crude oil costs and a decrease in chemical prices globally further affected production costs, leading to a decline in market prices.

The price trend for cumene in China for Q4 2023, reached 1074 USD/MT in December. The market remained steady with stable supply levels and steady demand from sectors, including acetone and phenol. While prices were stable in early October due to the golden week, later in the quarter, prices eased as destocking activities took place, aligning with a broader market trend.

The price trend for cumene in Belgium for Q4 2023, reached 1325 USD/MT in December. The market was characterized by weak demand from sectors such as bisphenol, phenol, and solvents, contributing to lower prices. Amidst a tight labor market, Belgium prepared for its EU Council presidency by emphasizing the need to prevent subsidy competitions that could disrupt the internal market.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the cumene 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 cumene price trend.

Global Cumene Price Trend

The report offers a holistic view of the global cumene pricing trends in the form of cumene 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 cumene historical price trends, enabling stakeholders to understand past fluctuations and their underlying causes.

The report also delves into cumene 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 cumene 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 Cumene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

In Europe, the cumene market during Q4 2024 was dominated by weak usage by major industries like bisphenol, phenol, and solvents. A lack of significant queries from end-users led producers to maintain stable prices in an effort to dodge exacerbating the market’s downturn. Manufacturing activity within the Eurozone showed signs of stagnation, especially in the petrochemical and cumene industries. While certain countries, such as Spain, experienced slight advancements, these were not enough to compensate for wider regional challenges. Lower production costs, mainly attributed to weak propylene prices, prevented any substantial price hikes. The overall outlook for cumene stayed subdued, with economic unpredictability and geopolitical strains contributing to slow recovery and moderate demand.

Q3 2024:

The European cumene market in Q3 2024 experienced a considerable downturn, driven by weak usage by key industries like polycarbonates, paints, coatings, and agrochemicals. Several factors, including lower consumption in the fuel and lubricants sectors, contributed to the market’s challenges. Naphtha price volatility and labor strikes at major ports, particularly in Bremerhaven and Hamburg, added further pressure to the market. These strikes caused significant operational disruptions as union negotiations continued. Producers were forced to scale back production levels to manage financial strain, and the strained supply chain created additional hurdles. Despite these challenges, some hope for market recovery remained as supply chain issues eased in certain regions. Overall, European cumene prices continued their downward trend due to the combination of weak demand and production cost factors.

Q2 2024:

The European cumene market in Q2 2024 witnessed a marked decline in prices, mainly due to weak demand from downstream industries like paints and coatings, coupled with lower production costs driven by falling naphtha prices. This decrease was influenced by abundant local supplies and geopolitical issues that continued to pressure raw material costs. The Eurozone’s manufacturing sector, although slowing its decline, continued to underperform, further straining demand for cumene. Belgium recorded the most pronounced price reductions due to reduced construction activity, regulatory constraints, and broader economic sluggishness. Seasonality also impacted market dynamics, with lower activity in the latter part of the quarter, contributing to a persistently bearish pricing environment.

Q4 2023:

In Europe, the market prices declined in the fourth quarter of 2023 due to reduced crude oil costs and falling prices of upstream benzene as well as downstream phenol and acetone. The region's petrochemical industry faced a mix of weak demand alongside oversupply, prompting some companies to halt production. The cumene market for industries like bisphenol, phenol, and solvents also softened, causing additional price drops. As Belgium prepared for its role as the EU Council president, it resisted easing state aid regulations to prevent a subsidy race that could disrupt the internal market.

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

North America Cumene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

In the final quarter of 2024, the cumene market in North America continued to face a downward price trend due to a combination of external and internal factors. Fluctuations in feedstock costs, particularly naphtha, alongside worries about OPEC’s impact on crude oil markets, placed downward pressure on cumene prices. The United States chemical sector also experienced disruptions caused by port strikes, resulting in delayed shipments, increased costs, and supply chain bottlenecks. Despite these challenges, weak demand from industries such as phenol, bisphenol, and solvents led to keeping prices steady, as manufacturers were reluctant to hike prices amid the market downturn. Although United States production levels remained high, the overall market outlook remained cautious due to the continuing uncertainty and supply-side constraints.

Q3 2024:

In the third quarter of 2024, the cumene market in North America faced a notable price decline, with the United States experiencing a considerable pronounced drop. A combination of fluctuating naphtha prices and global economic uncertainties added to this downward shift. Despite falling crude oil prices and reduced demand for petrochemicals, market challenges persisted due to weakening demand across key sectors. Port disruptions, notably from labor strikes, exacerbated supply chain issues. However, inventory management and strategic production scheduling helped companies navigate the difficult landscape, preventing more severe impacts. Although OPEC’s output cuts and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East raised supply concerns, these did not substantially affect the market. Producers faced pressure to manage rates effectively while adjusting to market dynamics.

Q2 2024:

During the second quarter of 2024, the market in North America faced a downward trend in pricing because of weak demand across key end user sectors like acetone and phenol production. This subdued requirement, combined with volatile feedstock costs especially crude oil and naphtha, significantly impacted the market sentiment. Additionally, seasonal influences, such as reduced construction activity and the onset of winter, further dampened the market. Hurricanes disrupted petrochemical production and logistics, particularly in offshore areas, tightening the crude oil supply chain. The United States experienced the steepest declines in prices due to these compounded factors, highlighting the sector’s sensitivity to both raw material fluctuations and weather related disruptions.

Q4 2023:

The North America market in Q4 2023, reflected a downward trend, mainly due to an oversupply as well as stable demand from downstream industries. This excess supply, coupled with lower consumption from sectors, such as coatings, paints and polycarbonate caused prices to drop. The seasonal change further contributed to the reduced demand. Freight costs decreased as well, reflecting the overall decline in market activity. Reduced demand across industries, such as agrochemicals, construction, coatings, adhesives, fuel, and lubricants, also played a role in reducing sales volumes.

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

Middle East and Africa Cumene Price Trend

The report explores the cumene 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 cumene prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Cumene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

Throughout the fourth quarter of 2024, the cumene market in the Asia Pacific displayed a downward trend in prices, shaped by the fluctuating dynamics of supply and demand. Early in the quarter, the market saw a dip due to lower feedstock expenses, especially propylene, which contributed to weakening demand across key markets like India and China. With downstream sectors like phenol and bisphenol showing slow recovery, Cumene prices continued to decline in the months of October and November. However, by December, the price trend showed signs of stabilizing, supported by tighter supply conditions. Production cuts and lower inventory levels in key countries, like South Korea and Japan, placed upward pressure on prices, though soft demand persisted. Throughout the quarter, the market remained overshadowed by broader economic uncertainties and slower industrial growth.

Q3 2024:

In the third quarter of 2024, the cumene market in the Asia Pacific experienced mixed price trends, largely due to varying demand across countries. Prices fell compared to the previous year, driven by a combination of weaker demand and market volatility. Chinese market prices saw some upward pressure, supported by increasing demand anticipations and favorable local naphtha trends. However, port congestion remained a challenge, particularly in India and Singapore, which disrupted global trade flows. Despite this, the market began to stabilize as effective inventory management and careful production scheduling became increasingly important. Crude oil price fluctuations, along with varying demand from sectors like aromatics, further influenced price movements. As global trade and regional economic conditions shifted, cumene prices reflected these complexities, offering some relief from earlier declines.

Q2 2024:

In the second quarter of 2024, the Asia Pacific market maintained a relatively stable pricing landscape. This stability was largely due to a well-managed balance between supply and need by both retailers and end-use manufacturers, coupled with consistent demand from acetone and phenol sectors. Stable crude oil prices also contributed to the equilibrium by keeping naphtha production costs steady. Minimal seasonal impact during the quarter further supported price stability, enabling the region to avoid the volatility seen in other markets. Overall, the Asia Pacific region showcased a balanced market environment with limited fluctuations.

Q4 2023:

During Q4 2023, the Asia Pacific market faced a downward trend, mainly due to reduced demand from industries, including aromatics, styrene, as well as solvents. Supply remained stable as domestic refineries continued to operate efficiently, but production rates reduced as demand weakened over time. In China, the market remained consistent with a uniform supply, and demand from across numerous sectors, such as phenol and acetone. During October, the prices were unchanged coinciding with the golden week holidays. The second half of the quarter saw significant destocking, which eased price levels.

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

Latin America Cumene Price Trend

The analysis of cumene 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.

Cumene Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Cumene Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2024 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of cumene 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 cumene at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of cumene price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing cumene 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.

Cumene Industry Analysis

The global cumene industry size reached US$ 21.24 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 30.8 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 4.10% during 2023-2032.

• The global cumene market growth is driven primarily by increasing demand for phenol and its derivatives, including bisphenol-A and phenolic resins. This is because cumene is an essential intermediate used in the production of phenol.
• In addition, the global cumene market is driven by the wide use of phenolic products in various industries, such as automotive, electronics, construction, or healthcare.
• Another rapidly developing aspect is the global plastics industry, especially in emerging markets, which is bolstering the market growth as cumene is used in the production of polycarbonates and epoxy resins.
• Furthermore, the increased focus on renewable and sustainable chemicals. As a result, advances have been made in the development of bio-based cumene.
• Moreover, the escalating use of cumene by-product in the manufacturing of acetone is providing a considerable thrust to the market growth.
• The production by-product acetone is used in various industries, such as solvents, coatings, and pharmaceuticals.
• Currently, the major consumer of cumene is the Asia-Pacific region. This is due to rapid industrial development, urbanization, and rapid infrastructure in China and India.
• Additionally, significant investments in the petrochemical industry and capacity development also affect the global cumene market.
• Environmental protection also plays a key role in driving the market, as regulations aimed at reducing emissions and creating an environmentally friendly bio-based production contribute to development.
• In line with this, activities such as acquisition, merging, as well as the buying of raw materials by key market players, are facilitating the market growth.
• Apart from this, the emergence of various applications for cumene derivatives, such as pharmaceutical intermediates or specialty chemicals, is positively contributing to the market growth.
• In addition, burgeoning investments in research and development (R&D) activities and investment in new technologies are fueling the market growth.

Cumene News

The report covers the latest developments, updates, and trends impacting the global cumene 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 cumene production technologies, strategic market expansions by key industry players, and significant mergers and acquisitions that impact the cumene price trend.

Latest developments in the cumene industry:

• January 2025: Lummus Technology and Versalis announced a strategic partnership to license Versalis' phenolics technologies, including cumene and cyclohexanone oxime. The collaboration focuses on engineering, marketing, and licensing, while also providing proprietary catalysts and equipment. This partnership aims to strengthen their position in the phenolics value chain and support sustainable, energy-efficient solutions for customers.
• May 2024: KBR and Sumitomo Chemical announced a licensing alliance for Sumitomo's sustainable propylene oxide by cumene (POC) technology. The eco-friendly technology reduces carbon emissions, minimizes wastewater, and improves energy efficiency. KBR will serve as the exclusive licensing partner, leveraging its global network to expand the technology's reach.
• April 2024: Lummus Technology announced that IndianOil Corp. Ltd. (IOCL) selected its cumene technology for a new 440 KTA unit at the Paradip complex in India. This unit is part of IOCL's petrochemical and polymers expansion.
• December 2023: Ineos Phenol launched Europe’s largest cumene plant in Marl, Germany, with a production capacity of 750,000 tons. The plant reduces CO₂ emissions by 50% per ton of product through innovative cumene technology and heat integration. This facility strengthens Ineos’ European phenol position while significantly lowering its environmental impact.
• November 2023: Lummus Technology announced that Haldia Petrochemicals Ltd. (HPL) in West Bengal, India, selected its olefins conversion technology (OCT) and cumene and phenol technologies for a new plant. The facility will be India's largest cumene and phenol plant and the country's first on-purpose propylene plant. This project is expected to boost India's petrochemical industry, with commissioning planned by Q1 2026.

Product Description

Cumene, a vital chemical compound in industrial processes, merits recognition for its versatile applications and contributions across various sectors. Its utilization extends to the synthesis of valuable chemicals like phenolic resins, polycarbonates, and epoxy resins, which find extensive use in construction, automotive, electronics, and healthcare industries. The commendable aspect of cumene lies in its ability to facilitate the production of these essential materials, thereby underpinning the functionality and advancement of numerous products we encounter daily. Additionally, cumene's importance transcends mere industrial applications; it embodies a cornerstone of innovation and sustainability.

With increasing focus on renewable resources and eco-friendly practices, the exploration of bio-based cumene emerges as a promising avenue, aligning with the global shift towards greener chemistry solutions. Furthermore, cumene's role in driving technological advancements cannot be understated. Continuous improvements in production processes enhance efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and contribute to overall market competitiveness. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the challenges associated with cumene, including price volatility of raw materials and regulatory complexities.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report presents a detailed analysis of cumene 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 cumene 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 cumene price charts ensure our clients remain at the forefront of the industry.