Prices continued their downward trend in Q1 2025, falling by 2.38% to USD 1725/MT. This drop was driven by prolonged holiday-related factory closures and delayed order placements across downstream sectors, especially in fine chemicals and flavor manufacturing. Additionally, logistical challenges around the Lunar New Year further dampened market activity.
Though feedstock prices remained mostly unchanged, a lack of immediate demand and healthy inventory levels at the start of the year kept the market under pressure, leading to another soft quarter for Benzaldehyde pricing in China.Â
According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Benzaldehyde prices in the Chinese market witnessed a significant decline of 7.83%, dropping to USD 1590 per metric ton. This notable decrease was primarily driven by sluggish demand from key downstream sectors such as aroma chemicals and pharmaceuticals, which saw reduced procurement due to oversupply and weak consumption patterns across both domestic and export markets.
Additionally, elevated inventory levels from the previous quarter, coupled with aggressive price competition among domestic producers, intensified downward pressure on the market. Export interest from South Asia and Southeast Asia also remained muted, leading to an increase in available cargoes within the domestic market. The overall market sentiment in China remained bearish throughout Q2, shaped by weak end-user activity, supply overhang, and an absence of bullish triggers.Â
In Q1 2024, Benzaldehyde prices saw a slight decline of 1.20% from the previous quarter, settling at USD 1478/MT. The price dip was attributed to reduced industrial activity around the Lunar New Year holiday period, leading to softer domestic consumption and deferred procurement.
Additionally, inventory levels remained sufficient due to low off-take in January and February. While upstream costs were stable, muted buying interest and weaker export orders added downward pressure on prices.Â
In Q2 2024, according to PriceWatch Benzaldehyde prices increased by approximately 3.18% from Q1 2024 to USD 1525/MT, driven by a seasonal recovery in demand across downstream sectors, particularly in fragrances, personal care products, and pesticides.
Manufacturers resumed production post-holidays and began restocking in anticipation of peak seasonal consumption. Slight tightening in regional supply due to scheduled maintenance at a few domestic plants also supported a firm pricing environment.Â
In Q3 2024, Benzaldehyde prices surged by 18.62%, reaching USD 1809/MT—marking the sharpest quarterly gain in the period. This significant rise was fuelled by a spike in demand from the agrochemical industry ahead of the sowing season, alongside increased export activity to South Asia and Latin America.
Additionally, supply disruptions caused by environmental inspections and reduced production rates in eastern China tightened market availability. Rising costs of feedstock toluene and energy inputs further contributed to the price rally.Â
In Q4 2024, Benzaldehyde prices dipped by 2.32%, settling at USD 1767/MT. The decline was attributed to seasonal demand weakening toward the end of the year, as buyers scaled back procurement in anticipation of the upcoming Lunar New Year and year-end inventory closures.
At the same time, improved production rates and stabilized feedstock prices helped ease the supply pressure that had built up in Q3. While export activity remained decent, the overall sentiment turned slightly bearish due to expectations of reduced industrial output and buyer conservatism during the holiday period.Â
Benzaldehyde prices corrected downward in Q1 2025, with India Ex prices falling by 9.24% to USD 2039.62/MT, and India CIF prices settling at USD 1806.85/MT, reflecting a 2.26% decline. The price drop was primarily attributed to a post-peak correction following strong rallies in previous quarters.
Additionally, industrial activity slowed due to the financial year-end, Holi festivities, and the national election period, leading to reduced operating rates in key consuming industries. Improved availability of feedstock toluene and normalization of global freight rates also contributed to the bearish sentiment.
In West India prices dropped by 6.86%, falling to USD 180,400/MT. This decline could be due to an increase in supply, a slowdown in downstream demand following a period of high prices, or a decrease in feedstock costs, signalling a market correction.Â
In Q2 2025, Benzaldehyde prices in India experienced a noticeable downward trend, with CIF prices for Chinese origin material dropping by 8.59% to USD 1650 per metric ton, while Ex prices declined by 3.19%, reaching USD 1975 per metric ton. The decline in import prices was primarily driven by a sharp fall in China’s FOB market, which translated directly into lower export offers to India.
Domestic demand from key downstream sectors such as dyes, flavors & fragrances, and agrochemicals remained muted, with buyers largely refraining from bulk procurement and relying on existing inventories. This cautious buying behaviour was further reinforced by stable freight rates and the expectation of continued soft pricing.
In the quarter, sellers were compelled to adjust prices in line with lower landed costs, though the decline was less steep due to inventory holding costs and regional demand disparities. Overall, the Indian Benzaldehyde market remained weak in Q2 amid ample supply, reduced consumption, and global price corrections.Â
Benzaldehyde prices in Q1 2024 showed a slight upward trend, with India Ex prices rising by 1.04% to USD 1627.62/MT and India CIF prices increasing by 1.06% to USD 1534.15/MT. This marginal increase was driven by post-holiday restocking by downstream sectors such as flavors and dyes, as operations resumed gradually after the New Year and Republic Day breaks.
Despite low industrial activity during the Chinese New Year, stable feedstock costs and smooth port operations in India helped maintain consistent supply. The slight price uptick also reflected a minor rise in international demand, which supported CIF values, though buyers remained cautious amid soft global economic signals.
Prices in Ex-West India saw a slight increase of 0.65%, reaching USD 139,660/MT. This marginal rise suggests stable demand and supply dynamics, with no significant market disruptions or shifts in feedstock costs.Â
In Q2 2024, Benzaldehyde prices continued to climb, with India Ex prices rising by 2.71% to USD 1671.77/MT and India CIF prices increasing by 3.49% to USD 1587.77/MT. The gains were primarily driven by rising demand from the agrochemical and fragrance industries ahead of the monsoon season, a period typically marked by heightened pesticide and aroma chemical production.
Additionally, a slight tightening of global availability and rising toluene feedstock prices contributed to firmer import values. Logistics efficiency and stable domestic production helped avoid sharp supply constraints, though increased input costs placed upward pressure on price benchmarks.
Ex-West India prices experienced a notable jump of 2.94%, climbing to USD 143,770/MT. This increase could be attributed to improved demand from key downstream sectors, potential supply tightness, or a rise in the cost of raw materials.Â
Q3 2024 marked a period of significant price escalation, with India Ex prices surging by 23.99% to USD 2072.85/MT and CIF prices jumping by 17.74% to USD 1869.46/MT. This sharp rally was triggered by a combination of tight supply and robust demand across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, aromas, and specialty chemicals.
Several domestic producers faced reduced output due to monsoon-related operational challenges and planned maintenance. Concurrently, global toluene prices spiked, increasing raw material costs for Benzaldehyde. Importers also encountered delays in shipments due to regional port congestion and container shortages, pushing CIF prices upward.
Ex-West India prices substantially increase of 23.59%, reaching USD 177,690/MT. This sharp rise likely indicates robust demand, possibly from the pharmaceutical, flavor and fragrance, or agrochemical industries, coupled with potential supply chain constraints or increased import costs.Â
In Q4 2024, prices continued to rise for Ex-Works but corrected slightly for imports, with India Ex prices climbing 8.41% to USD 2247.23/MT, while CIF prices dipped by 1.11% to USD 1848.69/MT. The divergence reflected a decoupling of local and international dynamics. While domestic producers were still catching up on backlogged orders from Q3 and catering to strong seasonal demand from the aroma chemical industry, improved global supply chains and easing feedstock prices helped stabilize international values. A wave of imported material arrived towards the end of the quarter, alleviating pressure on CIF prices.
However, inland logistics bottlenecks and localized shortages in certain regions kept domestic prices elevated despite the softening import cost. Prices continued their upward trend in West India, with a 9.00% increase to USD 193,680/MT. This suggests sustained strong demand and possibly limited availability, although the momentum of price appreciation began to ease compared to the previous quarter.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Benzaldehyde, a key aromatic compound with a characteristic almond-like scent, is derived from toluene, a hydrocarbon extracted from petroleum. This versatile liquid finds widespread applications in the food and fragrance industries, adding the essence of almond to various products.
Packaging Type
Benzaldehyde Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
Property | Specification |
Purity (%) | 99 min. |
Colour (Hazen) | ≤50≤50
 |
Acidity (%) | ≤1≤1
 |
Specific Gravity (20
℃, ℃, kg/m3) |
1.044 – 1.049Â |
Boiling point (
℃℃ ) |
179Â Â |
Freezing point (
℃℃ ) |
-26Â Â |
Benzaldehyde Applications
Benzaldehyde is a versatile aromatic aldehyde widely used in various industrial applications due to its distinctive properties. Primarily, it serves as a key intermediate in the production of numerous chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and flavouring agents. In the fragrance industry, Benzaldehyde is valued for its almond-like scent and is commonly used in perfumes and personal care products. It also plays a significant role in the synthesis of agrochemicals, particularly in herbicides and pesticides, enhancing crop protection. Additionally, Benzaldehyde is utilized in the manufacturing of plastics and resins, where it acts as a solvent and chemical building block. Its applications extend to the production of dyes and pigments, contributing to the coloration of textiles and coatings. Overall, Benzaldehyde’s diverse industrial applications make it an essential compound in various sectors, including chemicals, agriculture, and consumer goods.Â
These events underscore the Benzaldehyde market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global benzaldehyde price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the benzaldehyde market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.
In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence benzaldehyde prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely benzaldehyde market data.
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Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Benzaldehyde, a key aromatic compound with a characteristic almond-like scent, is derived from toluene, a hydrocarbon extracted from petroleum. This versatile liquid finds widespread applications in the food and fragrance industries, adding the essence of almond to various products.
Packaging Type
Grades Covered
Incoterms Used
Synonym
PriceWatch Quotation Terms:
Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.
Property | Specification |
Purity (%) | 99 min. |
Colour (Hazen) | ≤50≤50
 |
Acidity (%) | ≤1≤1
 |
Specific Gravity (20
℃, ℃, kg/m3) |
1.044 – 1.049Â |
Boiling point (
℃℃ ) |
179Â Â |
Freezing point (
℃℃ ) |
-26Â Â |
Applications
Benzaldehyde is a versatile aromatic aldehyde widely used in various industrial applications due to its distinctive properties. Primarily, it serves as a key intermediate in the production of numerous chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, fragrances, and flavouring agents. In the fragrance industry, Benzaldehyde is valued for its almond-like scent and is commonly used in perfumes and personal care products. It also plays a significant role in the synthesis of agrochemicals, particularly in herbicides and pesticides, enhancing crop protection. Additionally, Benzaldehyde is utilized in the manufacturing of plastics and resins, where it acts as a solvent and chemical building block. Its applications extend to the production of dyes and pigments, contributing to the coloration of textiles and coatings. Overall, Benzaldehyde’s diverse industrial applications make it an essential compound in various sectors, including chemicals, agriculture, and consumer goods.Â
Benzaldehyde pricing is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of raw materials such as toluene and benzene, which are essential for its production. Fluctuations in crude oil prices can also impact these feedstock costs. Additionally, demand from various end-use industries, including fragrances, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals, plays a significant role in price dynamics. Supply chain disruptions, transportation costs, and changes in environmental regulations further contribute to pricing volatility. Procurement heads should continuously monitor these factors to make informed purchasing decisions.
Feedstock availability, particularly the supply of toluene and benzene, is crucial for determining Benzaldehyde prices. Any shortages or disruptions in the production of these feedstocks—due to factors such as natural disasters, political instability, or changes in production capacity—can lead to increased prices for Benzaldehyde. Conversely, improvements in feedstock production efficiency or an oversupply can cause prices to decrease. It is vital for procurement teams to track feedstock markets to anticipate price movements and manage costs effectively.
Benzaldehyde prices can vary significantly by region, primarily due to differences in feedstock availability, production capacities, and local demand conditions. For instance, regions with robust petrochemical industries, such as Asia and North America, often see competitive pricing due to higher production capacities and lower transportation costs. In contrast, regions with limited production facilities may experience higher prices. Procurement teams should analyse regional pricing trends to optimize sourcing strategies, considering factors such as transportation logistics and potential partnerships with local suppliers to achieve cost efficiencies.