Glycol Ether Prices

Glycol Ether Prices December 2023

The glycol ether prices in Germany for Q4 2023 reached 1279 USD/MT in December. The market experienced shifts in the last quarter of 2023 due to fluctuating ethylene oxide prices, which impacted production rates. The plant maintenance of Sasol in Marl further disrupted output. Reduced demand from personal care and cleaning industries, along with a drop in ethylene prices, concluded to lower production costs but continued economic challenges restrained market recovery.

Glycol Ether Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

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

The report examines the elements influencing glycol ether 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.

Glycol Ether Market Analysis

The global glycol ether market size reached 0.9 Million Tons in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 1.3 Million Tons, at a projected CAGR of 4.50% during 2023-2032.

• Augmenting demand from the paint and coatings industry, where glycol ether is used to improve coatings' spreadability and dry time, enhancing the product's application and aesthetic qualities.
• The shift towards more environmentally friendly and safer chemical products has driven the development and adoption of bio-based and low-VOC glycol ethers, catering to the growing consumer and regulatory insistence on sustainable practices.
• The increasing use of glycol ethers in the automotive and electronics industries for cleaning and degreasing, driven by the expansion of these sectors globally.
• Continual advancements in technology and formulation techniques have enabled the development of specialized glycol ether products tailored for specific applications, which enhances its attractiveness across various user industries.
• Global industrial growth, particularly in emerging markets, where manufacturing activities are increasing, also contributes to the rising demand for glycol ethers.
• The pharmaceutical industry's expansion significantly impacts the market as glycol ethers are increasingly used as solvent carriers in various drug formulations, enhancing the effectiveness and stability of pharmaceutical products.
• The ongoing research and development aimed at improving the efficiency and reducing the environmental impact of glycol ethers is creating more advanced products that meet the specific needs of end-users.
• In the printing industry, glycol ethers are crucial for producing high-quality printing inks, especially in applications requiring rapid drying and good adhesion.
• The personal care industry is innovating rapidly to deliver products that meet consumer demands for safety, efficacy, and sustainability.
• Glycol ethers are used in these formulations to enhance the solubility of active ingredients and improve product texture and performance, tapping into the growing market for premium personal care products.
• The ongoing global trend of urbanization and a shift towards more modern lifestyles result in higher standards for cleanliness and hygiene in both residential and commercial spaces.
• Glycol ethers are used as solvents in the production of fragrances and flavors due to their ability to dissolve a wide range of aroma chemicals and essential oils.

Glycol Ether News

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

Latest developments in the glycol ether industry:

• On September 20, 2023, BASF secured long-term access to QIRA bio-based 1,4-butanediol (BDO) from Qore LLC, a Cargill and HELM AG joint venture, to be produced at Cargill’s Eddyville, Iowa campus; they will offer bio-based derivatives like PolyTHF and THF, with the first commercial quantities available in Q1 2025.
• On May 17, 2024, Dow received six 2024 SEAL Business Sustainability Awards, highlighting its dedication to sustainability and environmental innovation. This recognition from The SEAL Awards highlights Dow's efforts in environmental stewardship.
• On March 25, 2024, Eastman's second U.S. molecular recycling project has been chosen by the Department of Energy to negotiate up to $375 million in funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act under the Industrial Demonstrations Program.

Product Description

Glycol ethers are a type of solvent that are based on alkyl ethers of ethylene glycol or propylene glycol the solvents in question exhibit very good solvency properties and are capable of dissolving both water-soluble substances and substances that dissolve in most organic solvents. Normally, they are synthesized by reacting alcohols with ethylene or propylene oxide with the help of a catalyst. An overview of glycol ethers is as follows: Thus, glycol ether is a thoroughly effective and multifaceted solvent. People demanded them as constituents of paints, coatings, and other products from the pharmaceutical industries, due to their flexibility to mix with other chemicals and make products more stable.

The advantages of glycol ethers comprise of the following: they are low toxic, have fairly high boiling points, and most of them are good solvents for use with resins, inks, and dyes. Also due to their chemical characteristics, they are used in preparing cleaners, brake fluids as well as cosmetics where they prove to be efficient coupling agents between different chemical substances.

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the glycol ether 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 glycol ether price trend.

Global Glycol Ether Price

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

The report also delves into glycol ether 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 glycol ether 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 Glycol Ether Price

In Q4 2023, the market in Europe experienced a notable shift. Initially, production rates dipped as prices of ethylene oxide, a major feedstock, fluctuated, impacting costs. This was further compounded by a scheduled maintenance at Sasol's Marl facility, which temporarily halted ethylene oxide production. Around November, a significant drop in orders from personal care and cleaning agent sectors was observed, driven by reduced purchasing activities. Concurrently, a drop in ethylene consumption by downstream glycol industries led to lower ethylene prices, affecting the production expenses for glycol ether unfavorably. The fall in the Eurozone manufacturing PMI indicated a reduction in end-user demand. As the quarter closed, there was no significant resurgence in market inquiries, reflecting the ongoing regional economic challenges. This period also saw feedstock ethylene prices decline due to rising supply and slow demand from end-use sectors.

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

North America Glycol Ether Price

In Q4 2023, North America glycol ether market saw varied trends. In the beginning, demand was subdued as personal care product industries operated at moderate levels, and buyers reduced procurement due to the onset of winter. As the quarter progressed, El Niño-induced dry weather led to lower Panama Canal water levels, reducing cargo rates. The U.S. manufacturing sector also contracted, decreasing adoption of floor polishes and cleaning agents. However, by mid-quarter, the availability of ethylene improved due to lower naphtha and crude oil prices and higher refining capacity. This led to a reduction in glycol ether production costs. Despite better supply rates by the quarter’s end, demand from personal care industries remained weak, leading to a reduction in glycol ether prices.

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

Middle East and Africa Glycol Ether Price

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

Asia Pacific Glycol Ether Price

In the Asia Pacific region, prices of glycol ether declined in the latter part of the Q4 2023, driven by weak demand from buyers. During the initial phase, the market was steady, with balanced supply and demand dynamics. However, Yeochun NCC Co. Ltd Unit 3 in South Korea, witnessed a plant shutdown, leading to a disrupted availability of feedstock, affecting production. Demand was low throughout the quarter from ink producers and end-user sectors, reflecting a downward trend for final goods in the region. Reduced demand from glycol industries led to lower ethylene costs, decreasing production expenses for glycol ether. Reduced demand from personal care product and cleaning agent industries led to an increase in inventories which further contributed in reduced prices.

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

Latin America Glycol Ether Price

The analysis of glycol ether 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.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

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