Ethylene Oxide Prices

Ethylene Oxide September 2024

The ethylene oxide prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 1465 USD/MT in September. The market saw notable price increase mainly driven by limited supply from maintenance and production cuts shutdowns, alongside rising ethylene costs. The continued demand from key industries and exports to Latin America intensified this trend, especially amid supply disruptions.

The price trend for ethylene oxide in Japan for Q3 2024 settled at 935 USD/MT in September. The market saw rising prices due to stable demand from industries like monoethylene glycol and increasing feedstock ethylene prices. Supply constraints also fueled optimism, while slight fluctuations from the previous quarter indicated strength in the Japanese market.

In Netherlands, the ethylene oxide prices for Q3 2024 reached 1400 USD/MT in September. Prices rose due to tight supply and higher feedstock costs, with operational disruptions and geopolitical factors contributing to the trend. Despite minor seasonal declines, demand across various applications in Europe remained strong.

The ethylene oxide prices in the Saudi Arabia for Q3 2024 reached 1220 USD/MT in September. The market witnessed a decline in prices due to adequate supply and a low demand from downstream industries. Minimal price changes resulted in a stable environment, reflecting subdued sentiment this quarter.

Ethylene Oxide June 2024

During the Q2 of 2024, the ethylene oxide prices in the United States reached 1398 USD/MT in June. The market prices rose driven by steady demand and limited supply due to disruptions at Dow Chemical’s plant. Rising ethylene upstream prices further elevated production rates, with most market transactions based on need-driven orders, reflecting cautious buyer sentiment.

In Q2 of 2024, the product prices in Japan saw a decline due to oversupply and sluggish demand from the Ethoxylates and Monoethylene Glycol sectors. The quarter ended with ethylene oxide priced at 873 USD/MT in June. Limited cost support from ethylene and cautious buying behavior amid broader economic challenges weighed on the market throughout the period.

During Q2 of 2024, the market prices in Germany fell due to weak buyer engagement and declining feedstock Ethylene costs. The quarter ended with ethylene oxide priced at 1357 USD/MT in June. Subdued demand from end-user sectors and a summer market lull further contributed to the downward price trend, despite easing inflationary pressures in the broader economy.

In Q2 FY24, in Saudi Arabia, the market prices saw a decline amid lackluster end-user demand and reduced upstream ethylene prices. The quarter ended with ethylene oxide priced at 1294 USD/MT in June. The oversupplied market, driven by weak end-user consumption, reflected cautious purchasing patterns and softening international demand, pressuring prices further downward.

Ethylene Oxide March 2024

In Q1 FY24, the ethylene oxide prices in the United States reached 1367 USD/MT in March. Ethylene oxide prices initially fell due to lower ethylene costs but rebounded toward the quarter's end after a winter storm triggered disruptions in key petrochemical operations. Supply shortages from plant shutdowns contributed to stronger market sentiment and price stabilization.

In Japan, the ethylene oxide prices rose due to increased ethylene and crude oil costs. The quarter ended with ethylene oxide priced at 945 USD/MT in March. Supply constraints, coupled with moderate end-user demand, supported the upward trend, while disruptions in global shipping routes added pressure on local market prices.

During the Q1 of 2024, ethylene oxide pricing in Germany saw fluctuations, concluding at 1477 USD/MT in March. The prices rose, driven by high Ethylene costs and supply tightness. Despite weak end-user demand, geopolitical tensions and rising crude oil prices fueled production cost increases, keeping market prices elevated throughout the quarter.

In Q1 FY24, the product prices in Saudi Arabia followed an upward trend, with higher Ethylene and crude oil costs pushing production costs higher. The quarter ended with ethylene oxide priced at 1371 USD/MT in March. Limited end-user consumption and reduced overseas inquiries had little impact, while supply shortages supported price increases in the domestic market.

Ethylene Oxide December 2023

The ethylene oxide prices in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 1327 USD/MT in December. The prices initially increased in October due to tight supply and strong feedstock prices. However, they later declined as ethylene costs fell, reflecting weakened demand and economic challenges.

The price trend for ethylene oxide in Japan for Q4 2023, reached 935 USD/MT in December. The prices initially rose due to cost pressures from high feedstock prices and moderate demand. They later decreased as feedstock costs dropped and demand waned.

The price trend for ethylene oxide in Germany for Q4 2023 reached 1468 USD/MT in December. The market saw a significant increase in prices in October 2023, driven by scarce supplies and rising production costs. However, prices fell towards the end of the year due to reduced demand and economic instability.

In Q4 2023, the prices of ethylene oxide in Saudi Arabia settled at 1270 USD/MT at the end of the quarter. The prices initially increased due to high feedstock costs but faced a downturn by the end of Q4 2023 due to weak global demand and economic uncertainties.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the ethylene oxide 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 ethylene oxide price trend. 

Global Ethylene Oxide Price

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

The report also delves into ethylene oxide 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 ethylene oxide 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 Ethylene Oxide Price

Q3 2024:

Europe’s ethylene oxide market in Q3 2024 was marked by escalating prices fueled by constrained supply and rising input costs, especially in the Netherlands, where price increases were among the highest. Supply shortages arose due to production disruptions at major facilities, while geopolitical tensions contributed to higher oil prices, indirectly impacting Ethylene Oxide production. In addition to feedstock price surges, seasonality also played a role in price fluctuations, pushing prices up as demand for Ethylene Oxide continued across industrial sectors. Although prices saw slight year-over-year dips, quarter-end trends pointed to consistent upward pressure, reinforcing a positive pricing environment that persisted despite seasonal adjustments.

Q2 2024:

The European market saw a downward price trend during Q2 2024, attributed to subdued trading activities and low buyer commitment. Declining upstream ethylene costs led to reduced manufacturing rates, further depressing ethylene oxide prices. Weak demand from the end user sectors compounded the situation, with the seasonal summer slowdown also contributing to the market's lethargy. Inflationary pressures in Germany eased, but this did little to boost short-term ethylene oxide requirements. Manufacturers continued to operate at diminished rates, keeping supply sufficient despite weak new orders.

Q1 2024:

In Europe, the prices followed an increasing trend in Q1 FY24, driven by high feedstock Ethylene costs and tight supply conditions. Strengthening crude oil rates, exacerbated by geopolitical tensions, added to production cost pressures. Although demand from the downstream sectors remained weak due to broader macroeconomic challenges, this had little impact on ethylene oxide prices. Supply constraints, coupled with limited production in response to reduced demand, sustained higher price levels while trading activity in the spot market remained average.

Q4 2023:

The market showed a mixed trajectory during the last quarter of 2023. Initially, in Germany, prices soared due to limited material availability and escalating feedstock costs, which raised production expenses. However, by November and December, the market dynamics shifted. Diminished demand from key industries due to economic pressures, such as high interest rates and inflation, drove prices down. Additional influences included BASF’s strategic cost reductions and a cautious global outlook. Consequently, prices dropped as manufacturers emptied their inventories at reduced prices during the destocking period.

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

North America Ethylene Oxide Price

Q3 2024:

In North America, the ethylene oxide market in Q3 2024 saw price increases influenced by a combination of factors. Maintenance shutdowns and production cutbacks across the region restricted supply, especially in the United States, where prices rose sharply. Increasing Ethylene feedstock costs significantly impacted production expenses, creating a ripple effect across the value chain. Strong export demand from Mexico and Latin America contributed further to the bullish market sentiment. The impact of Hurricane Francine also disrupted key production sites, intensifying the supply squeeze and adding to the upward pressure on prices. Despite stable downstream demand, tight supply conditions and external disruptions pushed prices higher, reflecting a robust upward trend.

Q2 2024:

During the second quarter of 2024, the prices in the US exhibited an upward trend, driven by constant end-user requirements and restricted supply. The demand from the Ethoxylates and Monoethylene Glycol sectors remained moderate, with most transactions taking place based on demand. A significant rise in upstream Ethylene prices pushed manufacturing costs higher. Moreover, supply constraints were exacerbated by a force majeure event at a Dow Chemical plant following an unplanned closure. Even though initial expectations suggested an early Q2 restart, production delays persisted, further impacting market dynamics.

Q1 2024:

In the Q1 FY24, in the US the market showed mixed trends. Initially, a drop in upstream Ethylene prices led to lower manufacturing costs, resulting in bearish market conditions. Sluggish demand from the Ethoxylates and Monoethylene Glycol sectors also contributed to weaker pricing. However, by quarter-end, prices rebounded due to a winter storm that disrupted operations across several petrochemical plants. Shortages of supplies resulted from the closure of important ethylene facilities, such as Indorama Ventures and Dow Chemical, but constant questions from the end user industries helped to calm investor sentiment.

Q4 2023:

In the last quarter of 2023, the market saw a varied pattern in ethylene oxide prices. October marked a notable rise due to scarce supply and strong feedstock ethylene costs supporting higher ethylene oxide prices. However, this was coupled with only moderate demand from industries like ethoxylates and monoethylene glycol. The closure of Dow’s Plaquemine plant, which is expected to reopen in Q2 2024, further constrained supply, prompting price hikes by manufacturers. Yet, by November and December, prices dipped due to reduced ethylene prices from weakened demand in other sectors, resulting in decreased ethylene oxide production costs. The lower demand persisted, influenced by seasonal slowdowns and broader economic challenges, such as inflation and rising interest rates. Spot market activity was also subdued.

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

Middle East and Africa Ethylene Oxide Price

Q3 2024:

In Q3 2024, the Middle East and Africa region saw a downward trend in ethylene oxide prices due to stable supply levels and limited demand from downstream industries. Saudi Arabia experienced notable price changes, reflecting the overall subdued sentiment in the Middle East and Africa market. With ample supply and moderate feedstock costs, ethylene oxide prices remained relatively low, showing little volatility throughout the quarter. The steady pricing was supported by sufficient inventory and stable ethylene feedstock costs with only minor fluctuations. This stable pricing environment stood in contrast to other regions, where supply challenges led to price increases.

Q2 2024:

The Saudi Arabian market saw decreased prices during Q2 2024 as end-user demand stayed muted. Buyers exhibited a cautious approach, focusing primarily on essential purchases. Persistent declines in upstream Ethylene prices, driven by sufficient stocks and lower consumption, led to reduced production costs. End-user consumption for key derivatives like Ethoxylates and Monoethylene Glycol remained subdued, affecting market sentiment. Despite ample material availability, oversupply conditions worsened due to weak downstream margins and softening international demand, further pressuring prices downward in the regional market.

Q1 2024:

The Saudi Arabian market experienced a price uptrend during Q1 FY24. Rising upstream Ethylene costs, supported by strengthening crude oil rates, drove up production costs. Geopolitical conflicts in the region and OPEC’s output cuts further exacerbated supply concerns. Although downstream demand from the Monoethylene Glycol sector was lackluster, this had minimal impact on ethylene oxide pricing. Despite weak overseas demand and sluggish local inquiries, limited material availability contributed to upward price pressure. The market’s outlook remained cautious amid the upcoming Eid al-Fitr festival and muted end-user consumption.

Q4 2023:

The market saw ups and downs throughout Q4 2023. An initial price increase was attributed to high feedstock costs, enhancing production expenses and boosting domestic and global demand. However, as the quarter progressed, prices unexpectedly fell amid a global economic slowdown and reduced demand. The decrease in feedstock costs, influenced by lower naphtha and crude oil prices, helped alleviate production expenses. The anticipated continuation of bearish market conditions into the new year, amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, kept buyers cautious.

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

Asia Pacific Ethylene Oxide Price

Q3 2024:

In Asia Pacific, ethylene oxide prices showed a consistent rise throughout Q3 2024, underpinned by a stable demand from critical sectors like monoethylene glycol and ethoxylates. Japan led the region in price shifts, where rising feedstock ethylene prices and restricted supply created a positive price environment. The market remained active, with regional refiners facing tight supply conditions due to limited production and high feedstock costs. Despite slight fluctuations in price compared to same quarter in 2023, Japan's Ethylene Oxide prices maintained upward momentum, reflecting positive market sentiment. The growing need for industrial chemicals and increased downstream demand across APAC countries helped sustain higher pricing levels, with the quarter ending on a strong note.

Q2 2024:

The ethylene oxide market in Japan experienced a decline in price during Q2 2024 due to an excess supply and weak derivative requirement. Limited cost support across the Ethylene compounded the downward pressure. Buyer demand across the end-user Ethoxylates and Monoethylene Glycol sectors remained fragile, reflecting tepid market sentiment and broader economic challenges. Domestic producers responded by reducing production rates to balance oversupply and weak margins. Despite this, market conditions remained challenging with abundant material accessibility, which further weighed on prices. The market’s hand-to-mouth purchasing pattern reflected cautious buyer behavior amidst broader economic pressures.

Q1 2024:

During the Q1 FY24, the market prices rose owing to growing feedstock ethylene rates and a restricted domestic supply. Increased crude oil rates, fueled by OPEC+ production reductions and shipping disturbances, further supported the upward price trend. While some end-user factories focused on inventory reduction, demand from the Monoethylene Glycol and Ethoxylates sectors remained moderate. Additionally, higher freight costs stemming from disruptions in major shipping routes added to price pressures. Despite reduced operating capacities due to lower end-user demand and limited material supply, prices were firm throughout the quarter.

Q4 2023:

The market experienced fluctuations in Q4 2023. Initially, prices climbed, particularly in Japan, driven by high feedstock ethylene costs and moderate industrial demand. Nonetheless, the prices eventually fell due to reduced demand and declining ethylene costs. Sellers faced pressure due to limited buying activity, as consumers either purchased minimally or adopted a wait-and-see approach. In Japan, economic weaknesses were evident with a downturn in manufacturing in November, exacerbating the challenges. By the end of December, abundant supply forced manufacturers to lower prices.

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

Latin America Ethylene Oxide Price

The analysis of ethylene oxide 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.

Ethylene Oxide Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

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

The report examines the elements influencing ethylene oxide 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.

Ethylene Oxide Market Analysis

The global ethylene oxide industry size reached US$ 51.3 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 74.5 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 4.20% during 2023-2032.

• The growing utilization of ethylene oxide to manufacture ethylene glycols, glycol ethers, ethanolamines, surfactants, and other chemicals is creating a favorable market outlook.
• Economic development and growth are catalyzing the demand for a wide range of products, which rely on ethylene oxide or its derivatives. Besides this, rapid industrialization in emerging economies is leading to increased consumption of ethylene oxide-based products, thereby impelling the growth of the market. For instance, as per the International Yearbook of Statistics 2023 by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), in emerging industrial economies, the manufacturing value added (MVA) growth rate was 3.6 %, as compared to the global average of 3.2%.
• The escalating demand for personal care and home care products, such as detergents, cleaners, cosmetics, and toiletries, along with changing consumer preferences and lifestyles, is offering lucrative growth opportunities to industry investors.
• The ethylene oxide demand is further amplified by its utilization in the production of polyester fibers, resins, and antifreeze agents.
• The increasing interest in bio-based ethylene production on account of rising concerns of environmental sustainability and carbon footprint is propelling the market growth. As per the United Nation’s sustainable development’s report, the global carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from energy combustion and industrial processes increased by 0.9% to 36.8 billion metric tons. As a result, key players are investing in research and development (R&D) activities to introduce bio-based ethylene oxide produced from renewable feedstocks, such as sugarcane and corn.
• Ongoing advancements in ethylene oxide production technologies like catalytic processes and energy-efficient methods are improving process efficiency, reducing energy consumption, and minimizing environmental impact. These technological innovations are driving operational excellence and cost optimization in the ethylene oxide manufacturing sector.
• The ethylene oxide market is witnessing substantial growth, as key players are focusing on enhancing production capabilities, strengthening market presence, and catering to evolving customer requirements.
• Ethylene oxide is also becoming increasingly popular in the agriculture sector owing to its crucial role in the formulation of herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, and plant growth regulators.
• In addition, ethylene oxide production is showing an upward trajectory due to its employment in textile processing as wetting agents, detergents, and softeners. It also aids in removing impurities, enhancing dyeing and finishing processes, and imparting softness and smoothness to textiles.

Ethylene Oxide News

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

Latest developments in the ethylene oxide industry:

• May 2024: INEOS successfully completed the acquisition of LyondellBasell's Ethylene Oxide & Derivatives (EO&D) business, including its production facilities in Bayport, Texas. This transaction allows INEOS to expand its operations, leveraging available land at the Bayport site for future growth and enhancing its existing EO&D platform.
• May 2024: Larsen & Toubro (L&T) dispatched two of the world's heaviest Ethylene Oxide (EO) Reactors, each weighing 1,136 MT, to BASF for a project in China. Manufactured at L&T’s Heavy Engineering Complex in Gujarat, these reactors utilize advanced engineering and Industry 4.0 technology. They play a critical role in petrochemical plants by converting ethylene into ethylene oxide, a vital precursor for various chemicals.

Product Description

Ethylene oxide (EO), also known as oxirane, is a highly reactive and flammable organic compound with the chemical formula C2H4O. It has a slightly sweet odor and exists as a colorless gas at room temperature and pressure. It is a cyclic ether consisting of an ethylene (C2H4) molecule with an oxygen atom inserted between the two carbon atoms.

EO is produced through the catalytic oxidation of ethylene (C2H4) with a silver-based catalyst. This process involves several steps and operates under controlled conditions of temperature, pressure, and feedstock composition to maximize the yield.

EO finds applications in various industries owing to its versatile chemical properties. It is primarily utilized as a key intermediate in the production of ethylene glycols, glycol ethers, ethanolamines, and surfactants. Moreover, EO serves as a sterilizing agent in the healthcare industry to sterilize medical equipment and devices on account of its ability to penetrate materials effectively.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

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