Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Prices

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Prices September 2024

The paraformaldehyde (PFA) prices in the United States for Q3 2024 reached 1060 USD/MT in September. The market witnessed notable price increases driven by higher production costs and steady downstream demand. Supply chain disruptions and global economic factors further influenced this upward trend. While minor fluctuations occurred during the quarter, the overall sentiment indicated growing optimism toward market recovery and price stabilization in the near term.

The price trend for paraformaldehyde (PFA) in India for Q3 2024 settled at 700 USD/MT in September. The market faced notable price declines because of weak demand from key industries like resins and fertilizers. Oversupply further amplified the downward trend, creating a challenging market environment. Despite a minor price recovery earlier in the quarter, the overall sentiment remained bearish, reflecting ongoing difficulties in balancing supply and demand.

In the Netherlands, the paraformaldehyde (PFA) prices for Q3 2024 reached 620 USD/MT in September. The market faced the sharpest price changes driven by increased demand for PFA from industries such as resins and pharmaceuticals. Stable supply and advanced logistics further supported the price rise. Sustainability initiatives and growing industrial activity bolstered market sentiment, resulting in a steady increase in PFA pricing.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Prices December 2023

The paraformaldehyde (PFA) prices in the United States for Q4 2023 reached 1,209 USD/MT in December. The market faced weak demand and lower prices due to ample supplies and sluggish exports. The abundance of raw materials prompted a production slowdown, while limited orders from key industries kept prices low.

The price trend for paraformaldehyde (PFA) in China for Q4 2023, reached 771 USD/MT in December. The market was characterized by sluggish demand and oversupply. Despite reduced prices, the market saw low purchasing volumes, with little support from downstream industries, forcing manufacturers to reduce their quotations to stimulate demand.

The price trend for paraformaldehyde (PFA) in Germany for Q4 2023, reached 642 USD/MT in December.   The market remained well-supplied, leading to cautious production rates. Persistent low demand, influenced by economic conditions and inflation, caused prices to stabilize with minimal movement, reflecting a cautious trading environment.     

Regional Coverage

The report provides a detailed analysis of the paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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 paraformaldehyde (PFA) price trend.

Global Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

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

The report also delves into paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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 paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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 Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

Q3 2024:

The market for PFA in Europe during Q3 2024 witnessed a notable upward trend in prices. This increase was fueled by heightened demand for PFA from key industries such as resins and pharmaceuticals, which significantly boosted consumption. Improved logistical operations and a steady supply environment further contributed to this positive pricing trend, fostering an equivalent market dynamic. Additionally, the rising environmental consciousness amplified the demand for PFA, as industries sought sustainable solutions. Across the region, market sentiment turned optimistic, reflecting strengthening fundamentals and a steady rise in prices. The Netherlands emerged as a key player, demonstrating substantial price fluctuations that aligned with the overall upward trajectory across Europe.

Q2 2024:

The market in Europe continued its descending pricing trend during the second quarter of 2024, influenced by a variety of factors. A key driver was the persistent oversupply of PFA, which was further intensified by weak demand for PFA from critical downstream industries like textiles, preservatives, and adhesives. Economic uncertainties, coupled with geopolitical tensions, led to careful purchasing behavior, along with a reduction in bulk buying. These market conditions placed downward pressure on PFA prices. While the feedstock methanol market stayed stable, it offered minimal cost support to offset the price declines in PFA. Seasonal demand was weak, offering little relief, and the imbalance between demand and supply led to a sharp decline in prices. The continued sluggish industrial activity and oversupply contributed to the negative pricing environment.

Q1 2024:

In the first quarter of 2024, the market across Europe witnessed a significant price downward trend. Several factors, such as a market surplus and poor demand from important downstream industries, are responsible for this decline. In particular, the Netherlands experienced notable price fluctuations, contributing to the overall downward trend. A key factor influencing the market was the seasonal slowdown typically seen in the first quarter, which further impacted demand. Prices consistently decreased throughout the quarter, with a noticeable negative correlation between supply and demand. A combination of low demand, excess supply, and typical seasonal trends characterized the European PFA market in Q1 2024. These factors led to an overall negative pricing environment, with prices continuing to fall across the region. The sluggish demand and inventory surpluses further exacerbated the price decline, reinforcing the weak market sentiment.

Q4 2023:

Paraformaldehyde in Europe remained consistently available due to plentiful supplies in the market. The surplus supply caused production units to adapt their production levels to achieve a harmonious approach. Market basics stayed low, with most transactions occurring out of necessity. Inflation and economic challenges led to a decrease in market activity due to a drop in demand from downstream sources. The manufacturing sector experienced weakened demand due to the project delays, leading to stagnant exports from Spain to other regions. At the close of the quarter, market movements remained largely horizontal, indicating limited interest in buying and minimal upward price momentum.

This analysis can be extended to include detailed paraformaldehyde (PFA) price information for a comprehensive list of countries.

North America Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

Q3 2024:

During Q3 2024, the market across the North American region witnessed notable changes in pricing trends, driven by rising production costs and feedstock prices. These challenges were compounded by persistent supply chain disruptions, which placed additional upward pressure on prices. Stable demand for PFA from downstream industries, including resins and adhesives, further reinforced the price increases. External factors such as geopolitical tensions and global economic shifts also influenced market sentiment, contributing to a broader inflationary environment. The pricing landscape across the region reflected a gradual recovery from earlier fluctuations, with an optimistic outlook toward future stability. The USA demonstrated the most substantial price shifts, showcasing the region's dynamic response to these market drivers.

Q2 2024:

The North American market experienced a notable price decline during the second quarter of 2024, primarily due to an oversupply of products and poor demand for PFA from key sectors like textiles and adhesives. Prices were significantly pushed lower by this demand and supply imbalance. In line with this, the market was further strained by rising competition from foreign suppliers and the opening of new manufacturing facilities, which intensified the oversupply situation. The resulting market dynamics led to a challenging pricing environment. Notable price fluctuations were observed in the USA, with a consistent downward trend. Seasonal variations also contributed to the price decline, as mid-year periods generally see lower consumption. The market sentiment remained negative, as weak demand and surplus supply defined the pricing trajectory across North America.

Q1 2024:

During the first quarter of 2024, the prices for PFA across the North American region witnessed several challenges and a decline. Weak demand from key downstream sectors, such as disinfectants and adhesives, has had a noticeable impact on price fluctuations, leading to an overall downward trend. High inventory levels and surplus production among major manufacturers have exacerbated this issue, creating an imbalance in supply and demand dynamics. This has further weakened market activity, adding to the declining prices of PFA. In the USA, the pricing environment for PFA has seen the most significant changes. The reduction in demand and the overwhelming supply have been more pronounced, influencing the pricing structure considerably. By the end of Q1 2024, the price of PFA in the USA dropped considerably, reflecting the broader negative trend observed in the North American market. Despite some market stability, the overall atmosphere remains unfavorable, with prices continuing to dip across the region. The USA, as a key market, stands at the forefront of these shifts, underlining the challenges faced by the industry during this quarter.

Q4 2023:

During Q4 2023, the market faced lackluster trading conditions due to low demand and reduced exports to international markets. A surplus of raw materials caused manufacturers further down the supply chain to decrease their production, resulting in a buildup of inventory and causing prices to fall. The demand in the market was low due to minimal orders from the adhesive and preservative industries, which were also affected by sluggish purchasing trends. A steady methanol market also maintained low price levels. In December, prices in the U.S. market dropped as there was little demand for spot purchases since there was already plenty of stock available, reducing the necessity for more supplies.

Specific paraformaldehyde (PFA) historical data within the United States and Canada can also be provided.

Middle East and Africa Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

The report explores the paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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 paraformaldehyde (PFA) prices for countries can also be provided.

Asia Pacific Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

Q3 2024:

During Q3 2024, the market across Asia Pacific faced a notable downturn in pricing, due to various critical aspects. The declining demand for PFA from downstream sectors such as resins and fertilizers heavily influenced the market, with weakening consumption creating a sliding burden on prices. An oversupply of PFA further exacerbated the negative pricing environment, as producers struggled to balance supply with market needs. India stood out as the region with the most notable price fluctuations, mirroring the broader trends across the Asia Pacific region. Despite a minor price recovery early in the quarter, the latter half saw prices drop further, highlighting the market's instability. This persistent decline underscores challenges tied to fluctuating demand, oversupply, and industry-wide uncertainty.

Q2 2024:

In the second quarter of 2024, the Asia Pacific market witnessed a significant increasing trend in prices, due to various key factors. Strong demand for PFA from downstream industries such as resins and adhesives, and limited supply because of manufacturing interruptions, placed upward pressure on prices. Elevated manufacturing value, especially because of higher feedstock methanol rates, further fueled cost increases. Additionally, logistical challenges and rising freight prices contributed to the escalation in Paraformaldehyde prices. Strategic storing by major companies in expectation of potential future demand surges also pushed prices higher. Seasonal factors further intensified price volatility, with periods of heightened industrial activity leading to more pronounced fluctuations. As a result, prices steadily rose, reflecting the robust market principles and continued supply-side challenges. The positive sentiment persisted through the quarter, indicating a favorable pricing environment for Paraformaldehyde across the region.

Q1 2024:

The first quarter of 2024 has seen a mix of fluctuations and relative stability in the Paraformaldehyde (PFA) market across the Asia Pacific region. The overall pricing trend has been downward, mainly driven by weak demand, an oversupply of products, and challenging market principles. In this region, production costs for PFA have remained relatively low, contributing to cautious purchasing strategies focused on current needs rather than long-term planning. Several key industries that traditionally consume PFA, particularly disinfectants and adhesives, have seen reduced demand, further exerting pressure on prices. In countries like India, these factors have resulted in price fluctuations that have ultimately stabilized at lower levels. In Taiwan, the PFA market also mirrors these challenges. Despite some fluctuations, the pricing environment remains subdued, impacted by slow trade activity and a consistent supply-demand imbalance. The market continues to face the combined effects of low consumer demand, inventory surpluses, and limited purchasing. As a result, prices have experienced a steady decline throughout the quarter, contributing to an overall negative market sentiment across the region.

Q4 2023:

In the final quarter of 2023, the market in North America encountered subdued trading conditions, driven by weak offtake and diminished export levels to overseas markets. An excess of raw materials prompted downstream producers to reduce their production activities, leading to an accumulation of inventory and creating downward pressure on prices. The American market showed low demand, with minimal orders from the preservative and adhesive industries, further hampered by slow purchasing trends. A stable methanol market also kept price levels suppressed. By December, the U.S. market saw a decline in prices, with limited interest in spot purchases due to the availability of ample stock, lessening the need for additional supplies.      

This paraformaldehyde (PFA) price analysis can be expanded to include a comprehensive list of countries within the region.

Latin America Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price

Q2 2024:

The analysis of paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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.

Q1 2024:

The analysis of paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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.

Q4 2023:

The analysis of paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Price Trend, Market Analysis, and News

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

The report examines the elements influencing paraformaldehyde (PFA) 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.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) Market Analysis

The global paraformaldehyde (PFA) market size reached US$ 1.4 Billion in 2023. By 2032, IMARC Group expects the market to reach US$ 2.3 Billion, at a projected CAGR of 5.6% during 2023-2032.

• Paraformaldehyde (PFA) in used as a key raw material in the production of various downstream products like resins, adhesives, disinfectants, and pharmaceuticals. The growth in the sectors, such as construction, automotive, healthcare is driving the demand for PFA.
• The paraformaldehyde (PFA) demand is further amplified by its utilization as a feedstock in the production of thermosetting resins, mainly in the manufacture of phenol-formaldehyde resins.
• Paraformaldehyde (PFA) is also becoming popular as a disinfectant agent due to its ability to release formaldehyde when dissolved in water. Moreover, the paraformaldehyde (PFA) market is employed in the healthcare sector for sterilization, disinfection, and preservations purposes. With the increasing focus on the healthcare infrastructure development and rising awareness regarding hygiene and sanitation, the demand for PFA in this sector is expected to grow.
• Ongoing research and development (R&D) aimed at improving the properties and applications of PFA like enhancing its stability, solubility, and compatibility with other substances is supporting the growth of the market.
• The stringent environmental rules aimed at lowering emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and hazardous air pollutants (HAPs) are catalyzing the demand for formaldehyde-based products like PFA, which have lower emissions compared to alternatives.
• According to the content published in 2023 on the website of the World Bank, around 50% of the population resides in urban areas. Urbanizations is leading to the construction activities to accommodate the growing population's housing, commercial, and infrastructure needs. PFA is a key component in the production of phenol-formaldehyde resins used in engineered wood products, such as plywood and particleboard.
• The growing concerns about environmental sustainability and the adoption of bio-based materials are driving the development and commercialization of bio-based alternatives to traditional formaldehyde-based products like PFA.
• The market is also expanding due to the growing utilization of PFA in the textile industry for crease-resistance and wrinkle-free treatment of fabrics. According to the IMARC Group’s report the global textile industry is expected to reach US$ 1,445.4 Billion by 2032.

Paraformaldehyde (PFA) News

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

Latest developments in the paraformaldehyde (PFA) industry:

• In 2024, Evonik’s Coating & Adhesive Resins Business Line achieved a significant reduction in carbon emissions by powering the production of DEGACRYL® specialty acrylates in Darmstadt with electricity from renewable sources.
• In 2023, Merck invested € 23 Million to expand cell culture media production in Kansas, USA.

Product Description

PFA is formaldehyde polymer which is a white crystalline solid substance. It is usually supplied in powder form and needs to be dissolved in water before use in several applications. It is used in adhesives applications, particularly in industries that demand higher bonding strength, such as the automotive and aerospace industries. It is used in the agriculture sector as a soil fumigant and as a component in certain crop protection products.

PFA is also utilized as a raw material in the production of thermosetting resins with particular focus on phenol-formaldehyde resins used in the fabrication of plywood, particle boards, and other products derived from timber. Besides this, it is employed in the sterilization of utensils and in preserving biological samples.

Report Coverage

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

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