Caprolactam Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352111
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Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

caprolactam Price Trends by Country

ruRussia
cnChina
inIndia
deGermany
beBelgium

caprolactam Pricing Trends in India: 

Global caprolactam Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Caprolactam Price Trend Q3 2025

The global Caprolactam (CPL) price trend has been showing a generally bearish movement, with most regions have been witnessing subdued pricing momentum. In the APAC region, including India and China, prices have been softening due to stable supply conditions and moderate consumption levels in the fibre and resin sectors.

Market participants have been maintaining cautious purchasing activity amid steady operating rates at major plants. In Europe, covering Germany and Belgium, Caprolactam prices have been following a downward trajectory as demand has been moderate, and inventories have been staying adequate. Producers in the region have been managing output in line with consumption, preventing sharp fluctuations.

In Russia, market sentiment has been staying weak, supported by stable domestic availability and limited export activity. Overall, the global Caprolactam price trend in Q3 2025 has been maintaining a muted tone, with balanced fundamentals and limited price movement across key regions.

Russia

Caprolactam Export prices FOB Novorossiysk, Russia, Grade: Flakes.

In Q3 2025, Caprolactam (CPL) prices in Russia have been showing a downward trend, declining by 2.7% at USD 1170–1180/MT during the quarter. The market has been facing pressure from subdued demand across Nylon 6 fibre and engineering plastics sectors, as slower production rates have been reducing raw material consumption.

Export activity has been weakening as major Asian and European buyers have been limiting spot purchases due to sufficient inventories. Feedstock Benzene and Cyclohexanone costs have been easing, lowering production expenses and reducing cost support for producers. Russian suppliers have been maintaining stable operating levels, ensuring consistent domestic and export availability.

In September 2025, Caprolactam prices in Russia have declined by 2.6%, reflecting continued downward adjustment driven by muted trading sentiment and restrained procurement activity. Overall, the Caprolactam price trend in Russia has been recording a soft movement in Q3 2025, influenced by reduced regional demand and weaker cost fundamentals.

Belgium

Caprolactam Domestically traded prices FD Antwerp, Belgium, Grade: Flakes.

In Q3 2025, Caprolactam (CPL) prices in Belgium have been showing a downward trend, with an overall decline during the quarter, averaging around USD 2200–2210/MT by 3.7% FD Belgium. Demand from Nylon 6 fibre and engineering plastics sectors has been weakening as downstream manufacturers have been reducing procurement amid softer industrial activity.

Domestic producers have been maintaining regular output and ensuring sufficient availability for local and regional buyers. Export volumes from Belgium have been declining slightly, as European and neighbouring price trends have been limiting purchases due to adequate inventories.

Feedstock Benzene and Cyclohexanone costs have been easing, lowering production expenses and contributing to downward pricing pressure. Trading activity has been slowing, and buyers have been purchasing cautiously, following measured consumption requirements.

In September 2025, Caprolactam prices in Belgium have increased slightly by 0.6%, supported by limited spot availability and steady domestic inquiries. Overall, the Caprolactam price trend in Belgium has been experiencing a mild downward movement in Q3 2025, driven by weaker demand, stable supply, and softened upstream feedstock costs.

Germany

Caprolactam Domestically traded prices FD Hamburg, Germany, Grade: Flakes.

According to the PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, Caprolactam (CPL) prices in Germany, FD Hamburg, have been recording a downward trend, with an overall decline during the quarter, averaging around USD 2240–2250/MT by 3.6%. Demand from Nylon 6 fiber and engineering plastics sectors has been weakening as downstream manufacturers have been reducing procurement amid lower industrial activity.

Domestic producers have been maintaining steady output and ensuring adequate supply for local and regional buyers. Export volumes have been declining slightly, as European and neighbouring price trends have been limiting purchases due to sufficient inventories. Feedstock Benzene and Cyclohexanone costs have been easing, lowering production expenses and exerting downward pressure on prices.

Trading activity has been slowing, and buyers have been adopting cautious purchasing strategies, aligning with actual consumption levels. In September 2025, Caprolactam prices in Germany have increased marginally by 0.6%, supported by slight improvements in local demand and steady spot inquiries. Overall, the German Caprolactam price trend in Germany has been experiencing a downward movement, influenced by weaker demand, stable supply, and reduced upstream feedstock costs.

China

Caprolactam Export prices Ex-Shanghai, China, Grade: Flakes.

In Q3 2025, Caprolactam (CPL) prices in China, Ex-Shanghai, have been declining by around 3.6%, marking a fall from the previous quarter. The market has been weighed by moderate demand and stable inventories across major producers. Domestic availability has been remaining comfortable as production rates have been staying steady among key facilities. Export inquiries have been remaining limited due to weaker buying interest from Southeast Asian markets, which has been exerting mild pressure on spot values.

Feedstock Benzene and Ammonium Sulphate prices have been having minimal cost influence, while lower trading sentiment across the nylon chain has been affecting overall price movement. In September 2025, Caprolactam prices in China have fallen by 2.3%, driven by muted domestic demand and slow downstream activity.

The price trend in China has been remaining largely bearish through the quarter, as consistent supply and subdued purchasing activity have been restricting any notable upward movement. Overall, Caprolactam price trend in China have been reflecting a soft tone throughout Q3 2025 under balanced yet uninspired market fundamentals.

India

Caprolactam Import prices CIF Nhava Sheva (Russia), India, Grade: Flakes.

According to the PriceWatch, in Q3 2025, Caprolactam (CPL) prices in India have been declining by around 1.8%, showing a marginal fall from Q2 levels. The Indian market has been experiencing moderate buying activity as downstream demand has been staying balanced, while import arrivals from Russia have been remaining steady. Freight costs from Russian ports have been remaining stable, supporting consistent supply availability.

Domestic manufacturers have been maintaining cautious procurement as inventory levels have been remaining adequate to meet local consumption. Feedstock Benzene and Ammonium Sulphate cost variations have been offering limited support, keeping overall sentiment subdued. Import sentiment has been reflecting muted movement amid stable international offers and limited restocking interest.

In September 2025, Caprolactam prices in India have fallen by 2.2%, driven by restrained purchasing and steady arrivals. Overall, the Caprolactam price trend in Q3 2025 has been remaining slightly bearish, influenced by balanced supply, cautious trading, and limited fluctuations in production costs.

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, In the Russian market, the prices of Caprolactam Flakes dropped by around 10.1% during Q2 2025. The product was valued at USD 1237 per metric ton on a FOB Novorossiysk basis. The Caprolactam Market declined significantly because of weak global demand. The Caprolactam price trend continued to be mostly negative during April, May, and June.

The Caprolactam price Chart displayed a sharp decrease with no indications of rebound. Throughout the quarter, demand from nylon manufacturers remained sluggish. Russian exporters adjusted their offers lower to remain competitive in important markets. Supplier inventory pressure rose because of sluggish global transportation.

The prices of feedstock benzene also decreased, reducing production expenses. The Market displayed muted trading activity and weak spot purchasing interest. The price chart emphasized persistent weakness in both regional and global demand. The market outlook could stay strained unless demand picks up in Q3. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, the Russian Caprolactam Flakes market extended its bearish trajectory, with prices further declining to approximately 1375 USD/MT FOB Novorossiysk, marking a 6.34% drop from the previous quarter. The market remained weighed down by sluggish demand from key downstream sectors including Textile, Automotive, and Consumer Goods, all of which continued to experience slow recovery and conservative purchasing behaviour.

Elevated inventory levels carried over from the previous quarter, while production remained largely uninterrupted, adding to the persistent oversupply. Moreover, the typical seasonal lull in industrial activity during the early part of the year contributed to reduced offtake volumes, reinforcing the downward pressure on prices across the Caprolactam market. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the Russian Caprolactam Flakes market sustained its bearish momentum, with prices falling to approximately 1468 USD/MT FOB Novorossiysk, reflecting a 3.10% decline from the previous quarter. Demand remained under pressure from core downstream sectors such as Textile, Automotive, and Consumer Goods, which continued to operate at reduced capacity or with cautious procurement strategies.

High inventory levels persisted amid sluggish offtake, while producers maintained elevated operating rates, leading to a market. Additionally, seasonal demand from downstream industries softened further toward year-end, compounding the downward pressure on Caprolactam prices. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

By Q3 2024, the Russian Caprolactam Flakes market remained in a bearish trend, with prices around 1515 USD/MT FOB Novorossiysk. Weak demand from key sectors such as Textile, Automotive and consumer goods led to reduced orders and high inventory levels, contributing to the downward trend.

Additionally, an ample availability of product emerged as producers increased production, exerting further downward pressure on prices due to declining seasonal demand from the downstream industry. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, the price of Caprolactam Flakes average was 1602 USD/MT FOB Novorossiysk Increased by 4% in the Russian market, reflected a bearish trend. This downturn resulted from lower feedstock Benzene, Cyclohexane, Ammonia costs, weak demand from key sectors like Textile, Automotive and consumer goods, and ample supply.

Additionally, high financing costs and reduced consumer spending further suppressed demand, particularly impacting the German construction sector, which faced significant contractions. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, the global Caprolactam Flakes market experienced a bullish trend, driven by rising feedstock Benzene, Cyclohexane, Ammonia prices and robust demand from key sectors such as textiles, automotive, and consumer goods. The Lunar New Year festivities further enhanced demand for consumer products, resulting in increased production and higher benzene usage.

Additionally, supply chain disruptions due to factory closures and rising freight rates, coupled with increased global capacity utilization, added pressure to the market, propelling Caprolactam prices during this period. 

India caprolactam Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

Caprolactam flakes prices in India further declined to 1502 USD/MT, marking a 5.72% quarter-on-quarter drop. The persistent weakness in demand from key downstream industries like nylon 6 manufacturing and automotive textiles contributed to this bearish sentiment.

Additionally, with ample inventories carried forward from the previous quarter and no major disruptions in Russian exports, Indian buyers adopted a cautious procurement approach. The sentiment was further affected by macroeconomic uncertainty and a subdued outlook in polymer-related segments. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, Caprolactam Flakes prices in the India market fell by around 11.2% during Q2 2025. The product was evaluated at USD 1337 for each metric ton. The Caprolactam Market declined significantly as India kept obtaining cheaper imports from Russia. The Caprolactam price trend has stayed consistently low during April, May, and June.

The Caprolactam price Chart indicated significant drops due to weak purchasing interest. Importers lowered their offers to align with declining global values. Market participants indicated elevated stock levels and sluggish inventory turnover. Feedstock prices remained low, providing no assistance to local pricing.

Purchasers postponed acquisitions due to declining international standards. Market sentiment continued to be negative, indicating a regional surplus. The price chart indicated ongoing weakness without any upward drive. The Market could remain under pressure in Q3 unless demand from textile or engineering sectors improves. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

Q1 2024, The market began 2024 on a mildly optimistic note, with prices inching up to 1643 USD/MT, a 0.72% quarter-on-quarter increase. This modest gain was underpinned by a gradual recovery in downstream demand and relatively stable upstream costs. Indian buyers showed increased interest in forward bookings, anticipating potential cost push from crude-linked derivatives. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

Q2 2024, Caprolactam prices rebounded in Q2 2024 to 1718 USD/MT, reflecting a 4.54% increase from Q1. This uptick was supported by renewed buying interest from the textile and engineering plastics sectors. As the summer production cycle picked up, procurement activity rose moderately. Additionally, feedstock supply from Russia remained smooth, ensuring competitive landed costs for Indian importers. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

Q3 2024, Caprolactam prices eased to 1668 USD/MT, representing a 2.87% quarter-on-quarter drop. The decline was driven by reduced downstream offtake, particularly from the synthetic fibre segment, which showed signs of slowing. Stable freight conditions and consistent Russian supply chains kept the market well-stocked, adding to the pressure on sellers to lower prices. 

Caprolactam Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

Q4 2024, Prices for Caprolactam flakes corrected further 1593 USD/MT, registering a 4.51% decline compared to Q3. The price drop came amid waning seasonal demand and an oversupplied domestic market. Several converters delayed purchases anticipating lower prices ahead, especially as Russian shipments remained uninterrupted. This created a buyer’s market, leading to more competitive offers and discounts to move volumes. 

Global caprolactam Supply Chain

Downstream
  • Nylon 6 Production
Major supplying countries
  • Russia
  • Belgium
  • Germany
Major importing countries
  • India 

India caprolactam Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Cyclohexanone
  • Benzene
  • Ammonia
Downstream
  • Nylon 6 Production
Major supplying countries
  • Russia
  • Belgium
  • Germany
Major importing countries
  • India 

Technical Specifications of Caprolactam Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

113.16 g/mol

CAS No

105-60-2

HS Code

29337100

Molecular Formula

C6H11NO
caprolactam

Caprolactam is a colourless, viscous liquid primarily used as a key intermediate in the production of Nylon 6, a versatile synthetic polymer. Known for its excellent thermal and mechanical properties, Caprolactam is essential in various applications, including textiles, automotive components, and engineering plastics.

Packaging Type

25 Kg Bag

Caprolactam Grades Covered

Caprolactam flakes

Incoterms Used

FOB Novorossiysk, CIF Nava Sheva (Russia), FD Antwerp, FD Hamburg, Ex Shanghai

Synonym

CPL, 6-aminocaproic acid, Nylon 6 precursor, N-caproyl lactam

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 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.

Property  Specification  
Crystallization point  ≥ 69

℃℃

 

Moisture content  ≤0.01%(m/m) 
Volatile bases  ≤0.5 meq/kg 
Permanganate number  ≥ 10000 s 
Colour of a 50% (by wt.) aqueous solution   ≤5 APHA  
Content of free acids  ≤0.05 meq/kg 
Absorbance at 290nm  ≤0.05 
Cyclohexanone oxime content  ≤5 meq/kg 
Iron content  ≤0.5 meq/kg 
Ash content  ≤5 meq/kg 

Caprolactam Industrial Applications

Caprolactam is primarily used to produce nylon-6, a synthetic polymer with diverse applications. It plays a key role in the textile industry, where it is used to create strong and durable nylon fibres for clothing and carpets. In the automotive sector, Caprolactam   is utilized to manufacture lightweight components that enhance performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, it serves as a base for high-strength, chemical-resistant engineering plastics. In coatings and adhesives, Caprolactam   improves flexibility and adhesion properties. Its versatility extends to consumer goods, where it is found in various household products and packaging. Overall, Caprolactam is essential across multiple industries due to its wide-ranging applications. 

Caprolactam market share by End Use

 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Caprolactam prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The conflict disrupted energy supplies, especially natural gas and oil, which are crucial for the petrochemical industry. Europe, a major consumer of Russian energy, faced significant supply issues. The conflict impacted the availability and cost of energy and raw materials like Benzene, Cyclohexane, Ammonia which is derived from petrochemical processes. This led to increased production costs and supply disruptions in European Caprolactam   markets. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2022): The pandemic led to significant disruptions in global supply chains, causing widespread manufacturing shutdowns and labour shortages. Transportation logistics were severely affected, which resulted in production halts in the Caprolactam   industry. This disruption, combined with reduced demand from key sectors like Textile, Automotive and consumer goods, contributed to fluctuations in Caprolactam   prices during this period. 
  • U.S.-China Trade War (2018-2019): Tariffs on chemicals and textiles, including Caprolactam   disrupted global trade flows, leading to price volatility due to supply chain uncertainties, especially between the U.S. and China.

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's caprolactam 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 aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Caprolactam   production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Caprolactam   supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., Benzene, Cyclohexane, Ammonia) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Caprolactam   prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Caprolactam   production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g. Benzene, Cyclohexane, Ammonia), to predict shifts in Caprolactam   demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Caprolactam   production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Caprolactam   production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including like Textile, Automotive and consumer goods. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Caprolactam   pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Caprolactam   prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Caprolactam   pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

113.16 g/mol

CAS No

105-60-2

HS Code

29337100

Molecular Formula

C6H11NO
caprolactam

Caprolactam is a colourless, viscous liquid primarily used as a key intermediate in the production of Nylon 6, a versatile synthetic polymer. Known for its excellent thermal and mechanical properties, Caprolactam is essential in various applications, including textiles, automotive components, and engineering plastics.

Packaging Type

25 Kg Bag

Grades Covered

Caprolactam flakes

Incoterms Used

FOB Novorossiysk, CIF Nava Sheva (Russia), FD Antwerp, FD Hamburg, Ex Shanghai

Synonym

CPL, 6-aminocaproic acid, Nylon 6 precursor, N-caproyl lactam

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 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.

Property  Specification  
Crystallization point  ≥ 69

℃℃

 

Moisture content  ≤0.01%(m/m) 
Volatile bases  ≤0.5 meq/kg 
Permanganate number  ≥ 10000 s 
Colour of a 50% (by wt.) aqueous solution   ≤5 APHA  
Content of free acids  ≤0.05 meq/kg 
Absorbance at 290nm  ≤0.05 
Cyclohexanone oxime content  ≤5 meq/kg 
Iron content  ≤0.5 meq/kg 
Ash content  ≤5 meq/kg 

Applications

Caprolactam is primarily used to produce nylon-6, a synthetic polymer with diverse applications. It plays a key role in the textile industry, where it is used to create strong and durable nylon fibres for clothing and carpets. In the automotive sector, Caprolactam   is utilized to manufacture lightweight components that enhance performance and fuel efficiency. Additionally, it serves as a base for high-strength, chemical-resistant engineering plastics. In coatings and adhesives, Caprolactam   improves flexibility and adhesion properties. Its versatility extends to consumer goods, where it is found in various household products and packaging. Overall, Caprolactam is essential across multiple industries due to its wide-ranging applications. 

Caprolactam market share by End Use

 

Caprolactam 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 caprolactam. 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.

Caprolactam prices are influenced by a complex interplay of factors, including:

Caprolactam prices are influenced by a variety of factors, with feedstock prices being one of the most significant. Feedstocks such as cyclohexane, benzene, and crude oil play a crucial role in the production of Caprolactam. These raw materials are derived from petrochemical sources, so fluctuations in their prices have a direct impact on Caprolactam production costs. For example, if the price of crude oil rises, it typically leads to higher costs for the petrochemical intermediates like benzene and cyclohexane. Consequently, these price hikes are passed on to Caprolactam producers, who may increase their prices to maintain profitability. Other factors, such as supply chain disruptions or geopolitical tensions, can also affect feedstock availability, which further influences Caprolactam pricing.

The relationship between Caprolactam prices and feedstock prices is a complex and interconnected one. Feedstocks are the foundation of Caprolactam production, and when the prices of these essential raw materials rise, production costs inevitably increase. This relationship can be seen in times of rising crude oil prices, where the increased costs of cyclohexane and benzene trickle down the supply chain. Additionally, other factors such as the global demand for petrochemicals and energy, as well as fluctuations in currency exchange rates, play a role in determining feedstock prices, and in turn, Caprolactam prices. Thus, any volatility in the cost of crude oil or its derivatives can directly affect the final price of Caprolactam in the market.

Inflation is another critical factor that influences Caprolactam prices. When inflation rises, the overall cost of goods and services increases across the economy, which impacts the production costs for Caprolactam manufacturers. Higher energy prices, labor costs, and raw material expenses are typical outcomes of inflation, which then leads to an increase in the cost of producing Caprolactam. As a result, producers often raise the price of Caprolactam to maintain their margins. However, inflation can also reduce consumer spending and industrial demand for products made from Caprolactam, such as nylon. In such cases, weaker demand may put downward pressure on Caprolactam prices, but the cost-push effects of inflation are often powerful enough to maintain or increase prices even in a softer demand environment. Thus, the relationship between Caprolactam prices and inflation is shaped by both cost pressures and demand-side factors, creating a dynamic market environment.