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Butadiene Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12142100
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

butadiene Price Trends by Country

inIndia
nlNetherlands
usUnited States
cnChina
jpJapan
saSaudi Arabia
deGermany
beBelgium
frFrance
myMalaysia
krSouth Korea

butadiene Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India butadiene market price trend
  • Southern India butadiene market price trend
  • Central India butadiene market price trend

Global butadiene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Butadiene prices averaged USD 1134.50 per metric ton FOB Busan. This marked a significant decline of -17.19% from the previous quarter. The Butadiene price trend remained under pressure due to persistent oversupply and weaker offtake from downstream synthetic rubber and automotive sectors. Buyers in Taiwan and Southeast Asia pulled back orders, resulting in inventory buildup across Northeast Asia.

With upstream Naphtha costs softening in response to falling crude oil benchmarks, producers struggled to justify higher prices. Despite unfavourable margins, suppliers kept operating rates steady, intensifying the imbalance in supply. The Butadiene price chart reflected a consistent downward drift throughout the quarter.

Export opportunities diminished further amid regional geopolitical tensions, particularly in East Asia. Meanwhile, Butadiene prices highlighted a continued loss of momentum, as buyers remained cautious in a weakening Butadiene market with ample product availability. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Butadiene prices averaged USD 1134.50 per metric ton FOB Busan. This marked a significant decline of -17.19% from the previous quarter. The Butadiene price trend remained under pressure due to persistent oversupply and weaker offtake from downstream synthetic rubber and automotive sectors.

Buyers in Taiwan and Southeast Asia pulled back orders, resulting in inventory buildup across Northeast Asia. With upstream Naphtha costs softening in response to falling crude oil benchmarks, producers struggled to justify higher prices. Despite unfavourable margins, suppliers kept operating rates steady, intensifying the imbalance in supply.

The Butadiene price chart reflected a consistent downward drift throughout the quarter. Export opportunities diminished further amid regional geopolitical tensions, particularly in East Asia. Meanwhile, Butadiene prices highlighted a continued loss of momentum, as buyers remained cautious in a weakening Butadiene market with ample product availability. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

As Q1 2025 began, the market showed signs of recovery. Prices bounced back to USD 1370/MT, marking a +11.68% rise from the previous quarter. Buyers, especially in synthetic rubber, started restocking in anticipation of stronger seasonal demand and possible price hikes in raw materials. With stable production and efficient logistics, South Korea was well-positioned to meet the increased buying interest. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the market took a turn. Prices dropped to USD 1226.67/MT, down –17.35% from Q3 2025. This was mainly because of slower activity in the automotive and construction sectors, especially as the year wrapped up. A rise in overseas supply and a drop in crude oil prices lowered raw material costs, easing the pressure on prices. Even with the dip, South Korean exports stayed steady, and availability remained reliable. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, prices moved up again, although more gradually this time. Butadiene was priced at USD 1484.17/MT, a +5.32% increase from the previous quarter. Demand from tire and synthetic rubber makers held strong. Although overall market activity was more balanced, inventories in some regions ran low, which helped keep prices on the higher side. South Korea’s established production and export systems kept the supply chain running without major issues. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, prices continued to rise, reaching USD 1409.17/MT, a +17.84% jump from Q1. Demand remained solid, both within South Korea and in key export markets. Industries in East Asia ramped up production, and crude oil prices also ticked higher, pushing feedstock costs up along with them. Despite the cost pressures, South Korean producers kept output stable, and logistics moved smoothly to meet the growing demand. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, the Butadiene market in South Korea picked up noticeably. Prices reported at USD 1195.83/MT, up +21.26% from the previous quarter. This increase was largely due to strong demand from the synthetic rubber and automotive sectors. Tire production saw a boost, and domestic consumption remained steady. At the same time, supply was tighter than usual due to maintenance work at facilities in nearby countries, which gave prices an extra push upward. 

India butadiene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, prices increased marginally to USD 1232.84 per metric ton, a +1.52% rise on Q4. The market remained stable, with demand remaining strong in the automotive and rubber goods sectors. Buyers’ restocking and pre-year bulk orders supported the slight price increase. Better port activity and well-oiled supply chains ensured products reached markets in time, balancing the market without extreme fluctuations. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Butadiene prices in India averaged USD 1079.11 per metric ton FOB Calcutta. This represented a quarterly decline of -12.42% compared to Q1. The Butadiene market witnessed subdued demand from domestic ABS and SBR producers, leading to limited spot trade activity. Competitive pricing from Southeast Asian exporters added further pressure on local suppliers.

Despite seasonal disruptions, plant operations continued steadily, resulting in stable inventory levels. Input costs remained rangebound as upstream naphtha prices offered little cost relief. The Butadiene price trend remained weak, with no meaningful recovery signals from downstream sectors.

The arrival of the monsoon did not significantly impact logistics, allowing supply chains to remain relatively smooth. As shown in the Butadiene price chart, fluctuations stayed narrow with no bullish signals, keeping sellers cautious amid a well-supplied market environment. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

During Q1 2024, India’s Butadiene market followed a robust growth trend. The prices touched USD 989.76 per metric ton, which was a +21.99% spike in comparison to the last quarter. This was largely due to increased demand by industries such as synthetic rubber and tire production. Increased automobile production and general industrial application of synthetic rubber also contributed to this. On top of that, fewer imports and higher raw material (feedstock) costs pushed domestic prices even higher. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, Butadiene prices once again surged to USD1250.20 per metric ton, a +26.31% increase from Q1. This was because tire manufacturers and producers of rubber goods were in great demand, particularly as new initiatives began and the auto industry remained active. Feedstock prices such as naphtha and butenes also continued to increase. At the same time, holdups in global shipments and congested ports diminished supply, keeping prices on the higher end. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, the market began to slow down somewhat. Prices averaged USD 1307.51 per metric ton, a modest +4.58% rise from Q2. Demand fell off slightly due to seasonal slowdowns, particularly in tire and footwear production. Nevertheless, tight supplies due to inventory limitations and maintenance shutdowns in other Asian nations-maintained supply and prices relatively tight. In India, consistent purchasing and smooth factory activity kept the action going at an even pace. 

Butadiene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the prices fell to USD 1214.44 per metric ton, a decrease of –7.12% compared to Q3. This was a result of weaker synthetic rubber and plastic industries demand, particularly with slowing industrial production towards the close of the year. Increased imports and improved local stock levels relieved the pressure. Indian producers also reduced production due to narrower profit margins, contributing to the decline. 

Global butadiene Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Tires and Automotive parts
  • Industrial Rubber goods
  • Consumer Electronics and Toys
  • Textiles and Industrial Fibers
  • Detergents, emulsifiers and Personal care products
Major supplying countries
  •  South Korea
  •  Netherlands
  •  India
Major importing countries
  • Japan
  • China
  • Saudi Arabia
  • USA
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • France
  • Malaysia

India butadiene Supply Chain

Upstream
  •  Crude Oil
  •  Natural Gas
  •  Naphtha
Downstream
  • Tires and Automotive parts
  • Industrial Rubber goods
  • Consumer Electronics and Toys
  • Textiles and Industrial Fibers
  • Detergents, emulsifiers and Personal care products
Major supplying countries
  •  South Korea
  •  Netherlands
  •  India
Major importing countries
  • Japan
  • China
  • Saudi Arabia
  • USA
  • Germany
  • Belgium
  • France
  • Malaysia

Technical Specifications of Butadiene Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

54.09 g/mol

CAS No

106-99-0

HS Code

290124

Molecular Formula

C₄H₆
butadiene

Butadiene is a colourless, highly flammable gas with a mild gasoline-like Odor, primarily used as an industrial chemical intermediate. It is a key raw material in the production of synthetic rubbers such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polybutadiene rubber (PBR), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resins. Butadiene is typically obtained as a byproduct of ethylene production through the steam cracking of hydrocarbons like naphtha. It plays a vital role in automotive, plastic, and chemical manufacturing sectors.

Packaging Type

ISO tank (Export-Import)

Butadiene Grades Covered

Industrial Grade

Incoterms Used

FOB South Korea, FOB Netherlands, FOB Calcutta, CIF USA, CIF Malaysia, CIF Japan, CIF Saudi Arabia, CIF China, FD Germany, FD Belgium, FD France.

Synonym

1,3-Butadiene, Buta-1,3-diene, Divinyl

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Physical Properties 
Density   614 kg/m3 @ 25 °C 
Flash point   -76.1 °C (TCC ASTM D56) 
Boiling point   -4.4 °C @ 0 kg/cm2g 
Vapor pressure   240 kPa 
Appearance   Gas or low boiling-point liquid. 

Butadiene Industrial Applications

Butadiene is primarily used as a critical chemical intermediate in the production of various synthetic materials. It is widely employed in the manufacture of synthetic rubbers, which are integral to producing tires, automotive components, and conveyor belts. Butadiene also plays a vital role in producing plastics and resins such as ABS, where its properties enhance impact resistance and toughness. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of elastomers and specialty chemicals, serving key roles in consumer goods and industrial applications. Butadiene is also essential for the chemical industry’s supply chain, supporting downstream processes that require high-performance polymer materials. 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Butadiene prices

  • U.S.–China Trade Tariff Dispute (April 2025): In April 2025, the United States and China imposed heavy tariffs—up to 125%—on each other’s goods, including petrochemicals. This impacted the trade of Butadiene and its downstream products like synthetic rubber. The added costs, supply delays, and China’s restrictions on some industrial exports led to price fluctuations and uncertainty in the global Butadiene market. 
  • Post-COVID Auto Industry Recovery (2021–2022): As countries came out of lockdown, demand for cars increased quickly. Since Butadiene is used to make synthetic rubber for tires and car parts, demand went up sharply. But supply was still limited, so prices rose fast, especially in Asia and North America. 
  • 2020 Oil Price Crash & Cracker Shutdowns: In 2020, oil prices dropped heavily during the pandemic. Because of this, many petrochemical plants (called crackers) reduced production. Since these plants produce Butadiene as a by-product, the supply dropped. But demand started picking up again, which caused a mismatch and led to rising prices. 
  • China Environmental Crackdown (2017–2018): China introduced tough rules to cut pollution from factories. Many chemical plants had to reduce output or shut down, including those making Butadiene and its derivatives. This made Butadiene harder to get, especially in Asia, and prices increased due to the tight supply. 
  • Fire at BASF Ludwigshafen Plant (2016): A major fire and explosion happened at BASF’s main plant in Germany. This plant was one of Europe’s biggest chemical producers. The accident caused a sudden stop in Butadiene output, and prices jumped across Europe due to the supply shortage. 

 

These events highlight the sensitivity of the Butadiene market to geopolitical tensions, weather disruptions, and shifts in supply-demand dynamics, underscoring the importance of monitoring global trends. 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global butadiene price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the butadiene 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 butadiene prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely butadiene market data.

Track PriceWatch's butadiene price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch gathers real-time pricing data from a wide range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures our assessments reflect the latest market conditions for Butadiene. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team collects insights directly from key market players, including Butadiene producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major production hubs. This local intelligence is vital to understanding the unique dynamics of specific Butadiene markets. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring:We monitor the entire Butadiene supply chain, from feedstock sourcing and production to transportation and distribution. This includes tracking crude oil and naphtha prices, production plant operations, storage levels, and shipping logistics to provide a comprehensive view of supply dynamics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch keeps a close eye on global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts, sanctions, and trade disputes, which can significantly impact Butadiene prices. For instance, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its disruption to European gas markets have led to price volatility worldwide. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of weather-related events, such as hurricanes, typhoons, and extreme cold spells, on Butadiene production and export facilities. Events like hurricanes in the U.S. Gulf Coast or freezing conditions in key exporting nations can lead to short-term supply disruptions. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch analyses macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation, and sector-specific demand (e.g., power generation, industrial use). These factors are crucial in predicting Butadiene demand and resulting price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a detailed global database of Butadiene production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance activities, and output levels. This helps us assess the current supply of Butadiene at any given time. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes forecasts of future Butadiene production capacity, considering new liquefaction plants, expansions, and advancements in technology. This aids in predicting future supply trends and potential impacts on price stability. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch offers a deep dive into demand trends across key sectors, such as power generation, industrial applications, and residential heating. We monitor year-on-year demand growth and predict future consumption patterns based on market indicators. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our analysis looks at regional variations in demand and how they influence global Butadiene prices. This includes evaluating shifts in energy policies, changes in environmental regulations, and regional supply and demand imbalances. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch uses advanced econometric models to forecast Butadiene prices, integrating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are constantly updated to improve accuracy and reliability. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We run scenario-based analyses to examine possible future market conditions. This includes evaluating best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping clients prepare for various market developments. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Clients receive detailed reports featuring current Butadiene price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to provide actionable insights and clear recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized client support, ensuring you always have the latest information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available for discussions on specific market trends and to offer tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers accurate, timely, and actionable Butadiene pricing assessments, helping clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

54.09 g/mol

CAS No

106-99-0

HS Code

290124

Molecular Formula

C₄H₆
butadiene

Butadiene is a colourless, highly flammable gas with a mild gasoline-like Odor, primarily used as an industrial chemical intermediate. It is a key raw material in the production of synthetic rubbers such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polybutadiene rubber (PBR), and acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) resins. Butadiene is typically obtained as a byproduct of ethylene production through the steam cracking of hydrocarbons like naphtha. It plays a vital role in automotive, plastic, and chemical manufacturing sectors.

Packaging Type

ISO tank (Export-Import)

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade

Incoterms Used

FOB South Korea, FOB Netherlands, FOB Calcutta, CIF USA, CIF Malaysia, CIF Japan, CIF Saudi Arabia, CIF China, FD Germany, FD Belgium, FD France.

Synonym

1,3-Butadiene, Buta-1,3-diene, Divinyl

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Physical Properties 
Density   614 kg/m3 @ 25 °C 
Flash point   -76.1 °C (TCC ASTM D56) 
Boiling point   -4.4 °C @ 0 kg/cm2g 
Vapor pressure   240 kPa 
Appearance   Gas or low boiling-point liquid. 

Applications

Butadiene is primarily used as a critical chemical intermediate in the production of various synthetic materials. It is widely employed in the manufacture of synthetic rubbers, which are integral to producing tires, automotive components, and conveyor belts. Butadiene also plays a vital role in producing plastics and resins such as ABS, where its properties enhance impact resistance and toughness. Additionally, it is utilized in the production of elastomers and specialty chemicals, serving key roles in consumer goods and industrial applications. Butadiene is also essential for the chemical industry’s supply chain, supporting downstream processes that require high-performance polymer materials. 

Butadiene Market Price Trend provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for butadiene. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The price of Butadiene is influenced by various factors such as crude oil and naphtha prices, which are primary feedstocks in its production. Supply-demand dynamics, plant operating rates, and production outages also significantly impact pricing. Additionally, geopolitical tensions, trade regulations, and transportation costs can cause fluctuations. As Butadiene is a key raw material in synthetic rubber and plastics manufacturing, changes in downstream industries like automotive and construction further affect its pricing trends.

Global supply and demand shifts have a direct effect on Butadiene prices. An increase in demand from sectors like tire manufacturing, automotive, or industrial rubber can drive prices higher, especially during periods of tight supply. Conversely, oversupply from capacity additions or reduced downstream demand—such as during economic slowdowns—can lead to price declines. Procurement professionals must track global production levels, plant maintenance schedules, and demand forecasts to anticipate price movements and adapt purchasing strategies accordingly.

Butadiene pricing differs across regions due to feedstock availability, production capacity, regional demand patterns, and logistics costs. For example, Asia may experience higher volatility due to fluctuating demand from synthetic rubber markets, while North America’s pricing may be more stable due to integrated petrochemical infrastructure. Procurement teams should analyze regional price trends and trade flows to identify strategic sourcing locations, diversify suppliers, and mitigate risks associated with regional price shocks or supply disruptions.

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