Ethylene Prices

Ethylene Price Trend and Forecast

Track the latest insights on ethylene 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.

Ethylene Prices Q4 2024

During the last quarter of 2024, the ethylene prices in the United States reached 738 USD/MT in December. Due to weak demand and abundant supply, the U.S. ethylene market had an early decline in Q4 2024. Rising production costs and increased exports to Europe, where energy shortages favored U.S. shipments, caused the trend to reverse in December. Increased expenditures in infrastructure and continued use of derivatives helped to stabilize the market. Improved export prospects and cost-driven price modifications helped the quarter end on a positive note despite early losses.

In the last quarter of 2024, ethylene prices in Japan remained mostly stable with minor fluctuations. The quarter ended with ethylene priced at 843 USD/MT in December. The market saw a range of developments, starting with stable demand from the automotive and packaging sectors but then running into supply constraints. Price differences were affected by shifting customer attitude and rising naphtha costs. Market dynamics were characterized by a greater reliance on domestic output and a decrease in imports. Despite early difficulties from erratic industrial performance, by December, increasing downstream procurement and economic stabilization had brought about a modest recovery, ending the quarter with a balanced outlook.

During the last quarter of 2024, ethylene pricing in Germany saw fluctuations. The quarter ended with Ethylene priced at 986 USD/MT in December. Due to sluggish manufacturing output and decreased industrial consumption, Germany's ethylene market continued to struggle in Q4 2024. After stabilizing initially in October, prices began to decline due to poor demand and excess in the polyethylene sector. Although modest feedstock cost rises by December provided some respite, the market stayed muted overall.

In the last quarter of 2024, ethylene prices in Saudi Arabia were 831 USD/MT in December. The ethylene market began with falling prices as a result of a surplus supply and poor petrochemical demand. By December, problems with the global supply chain and increased demand in Europe helped to stabilize the market by increasing exports. Price recovery was aided by currency fluctuations and increased freight costs. The quarter finished well despite early declines, and Saudi Arabia's position in the global ethylene trade was reinforced by export-driven growth.

Ethylene Prices Q4 2023

The ethylene prices in USA for Q4 2023 reached 417 USD/MT in December. Ethylene prices in the USA fluctuated in Q4 2023, rising initially due to limited availability and strong demand, then falling as feedstock costs dropped and demand weakened. The market faced economic pressures and reduced international demand, leading to cautious sentiment and lower prices towards the end of the quarter.

The price trend for ethylene in Germany for Q4 2023 reached 725 USD/MT in December. Germany's ethylene market in Q4 2023 initially saw rising prices due to limited supply and high demand. Later, prices declined amid economic pressures, reduced demand from downstream industries, and lower feedstock costs. Manufacturing activity slowed, prompting inventory clearance at lower prices, impacting overall market sentiment.

The price trend for ethylene in Japan for Q4 2023, reached 848 USD/MT in December. Ethylene prices rose early in Q4 2023 due to high naphtha costs and moderate demand. However, by the quarter’s end, prices fell as economic slowdown and low seasonality weakened demand, alongside reduced feedstock costs and abundant supply, contributing to a bearish market outlook.

In Saudi Arabia, the price trend for ethylene market for Q4 2023 reached 862 USD/MT. In Saudi Arabia, ethylene prices rose early in Q4 2023 due to high naphtha and crude oil costs. However, by the end of the quarter, prices dropped as global demand weakened, feedstock costs fell, and economic challenges persisted, contributing to a bearish outlook in the ethylene market.

Regional Coverage

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

Global Ethylene Price Trend

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

The report also delves into ethylene 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 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 Price Trend

Q4 2024:

Throughout Q4 2024, the European market experienced steady price drops due to weak demand, oversupply, and economic challenges. Due to supply equilibrium, October prices originally remained stable, but a decline was brought on by minimizing industrial performance, particularly in Germany. A protracted pessimistic outlook resulted from the petrochemical industry's struggles with low customer sentiment and abundant product availability from the Asia-Pacific. As price reductions and inventory accumulation failed to elevate buyers' interest, November saw even more downward pressure.

Q4 2023:

During Q4 2023, Europe's ethylene market experienced mixed trends. Prices initially rose in October due to limited supply and strong demand in Germany. However, by November, macroeconomic challenges, lower demand, and decreased feedstock costs pushed prices down. The market also faced weak manufacturing activity and economic uncertainty, leading to inventory reductions at lower prices.

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

North America Ethylene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

The ethylene industry in North America saw a two-phase pattern in the last quarter of 2024, commencing with a steep fall in October. A scenario of oversupply brought on by strong production and little buying activity in the polyethylene and other derivative markets drove this fall. The pattern of price stagnation persisted in November as a result of steady raw material prices and a balanced supply-demand equilibrium. A reverse occurred in December, though, when price recovery was bolstered by growing production costs and increased export potential, especially to Europe.

Q4 2023:

In Q4 2023, the ethylene market in North America saw varied trends. Initially, prices rose due to limited availability and strong demand from industries like polyethylene. However, later in the quarter, lower feedstock ethane prices and reduced demand amid economic challenges led to a decline. The market also faced weak international demand, keeping export opportunities limited.

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

Middle East and Africa Ethylene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

The market in the Middle East and Africa experienced a decline in Q4 2024, which was followed by a recovery. Market confidence was negatively impacted by oversupply, slow procurement in important petrochemical sectors, and falling crude oil prices during the first half of the quarter. Sellers reduced prices to deal with extra goods. However, there was a change in the final half of the quarter when Saudi producers were able to charge higher prices due to global logistics bottlenecks and firming offshore demand.

Q4 2023:

In Q4 2023, the Middle East's ethylene market, particularly in Saudi Arabia, saw price fluctuations. Early in the quarter, increased naphtha and crude oil prices raised production costs, driving prices up. Later, subdued demand and reduced feedstock prices led to a decline. Weakened global demand and economic challenges further contributed to the bearish market sentiment.

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

Asia Pacific Ethylene Price Trend

Q4 2024:

The Asia-Pacific ethylene market, especially in China, continued to grow in Q4 2024 due to improved downstream consumption, government-supported economic stimulus, and advantageous supply fundamentals. Peak seasonal demand and efforts to revive the industry helped drive price growth at the beginning of the quarter. Market stability was maintained by robust purchases from industries including packaging and automotive, notwithstanding worries about surplus capacity. By November, strategic shutdowns and an increase in intraregional shipping costs constrained supplies, driving up prices.

Q4 2023:

The ethylene market in Asia Pacific displayed fluctuating trends in Q4 2023. Early on, rising naphtha costs and moderate demand in Japan pushed prices higher. Later, a downturn in the Chinese economy and reduced feedstock costs caused prices to drop. Additionally, subdued demand from the polyethylene and ethylene oxide industries and abundant supply pressured prices downward.

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

Latin America Ethylene Price Trend

The Asia-Pacific ethylene market, especially in China, continued to grow in Q4 2024 due to improved downstream consumption, government-supported economic stimulus, and advantageous supply fundamentals. Peak seasonal demand and efforts to revive the industry helped drive price growth at the beginning of the quarter. Market stability was maintained by robust purchases from industries, including packaging and automotive, notwithstanding worries about surplus capacity. By November, strategic shutdowns and an increase in intraregional shipping costs constrained supplies across the region.

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

Ethylene Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

IMARC’s newly published report, titled “Ethylene Prices, Trend, Chart, Demand, Market Analysis, News, Historical and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition,” offers an in-depth analysis of ethylene 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 at major ports, a breakdown of prices including Ex Works, FOB, and CIF, alongside a region-wise dissection of ethylene price trend across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa.

The report examines the elements influencing ethylene 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 Industry Analysis

The global ethylene industry size reached US$ 142.6 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 238.3 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 5.90% during 2023-2032.

• The availability and pricing of feedstocks, such as naphtha, ethane, and propane, are impacting the market, as these feedstocks are used to manufacture ethylene. For instance, the shale gas revolution in the United States resulted in the low-cost production of ethylene in the US market due to sufficient natural gas feedstock. It also assists in reducing the dependence of the country on fossil fuels.
• Ongoing advancements in catalyst technology or process optimization are enhancing the yield of ethylene while consuming less energy.
• The growth of the ethylene market also depends on global economic factors, such as gross domestic product (GDP) rate, industrial output, and consumer spending.
• Key players are focusing on developing bio-based or recyclable plastics due to stricter regulations on single-use plastics. They are also innovating ethylene production processes, such as steam cracking and catalytic cracking technologies, that can positively impact production costs and efficiency.
• The growing demand for ethylene in various industries, including packaging, construction, plastics, and textiles, as it is used as a key raw material, is offering a favorable market outlook. There is also a rise in the demand for lightweight plastics in the automotive industry to improve the fuel efficiency of the vehicle.
• The market share of ethylene is also expanding owing to capital investments in new ethylene production capacities or the expansion of existing facilities. Large-scale projects, particularly in regions with abundant feedstock availability or strategic geographic locations, are positively influencing the market outlook.
• The increasing adoption of sustainable practices in the petrochemical industry is due to the rising awareness among the masses about climate change and environmental degradation.
• A positive trend in the market is also being created by the growing demand for ethylene in emerging economies on account of rapid urbanization and inflating income levels of individuals.
• Ethylene is also becoming popular due to the escalating demand for ethylene derivatives, such as ethylene oxide, ethylene glycol, and vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), in various industries.

Ethylene News

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

Latest developments in the ethylene industry:

• In November 2024, Sinopec commenced operations at a new ethylene complex in Northern China to expand its petrochemical industry across the country.
• In May 2024, Honeywell announced a new naphtha to ethane and propane process designed specifically to enhance the efficiency of light olefin production and minimize CO₂ emission levels.

Product Description

Ethylene is a colorless and flammable gas with the chemical formula C₂H_4. It is the simplest alkene molecule with a sweet odor, consisting of two carbon atoms bonded together with a double bond and four hydrogen atoms.

Ethylene is produced industrially through various methods, with the most common being steam cracking of hydrocarbons, such as naphtha, ethane, propane, and butane. This process involves breaking down larger hydrocarbon molecules into smaller ones, yielding ethylene as one of the primary products. It is also produced naturally in plants, serving as a fruit ripening hormone.

Ethylene serves as an intermediate to produce surfactants and glycol-based products, such as coolants and heat-transfer fluids. It is employed in the synthesis of ethylene glycol, which assists in manufacturing antifreeze, polyester fibers, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) resin for beverage bottles. It also helps in conducting various chemical reactions, resulting in the formation of various products.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

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