Cyclopentane prices dropped to USD 1660/ton FOB Tokyo, a 0.5% decline for the week ending November 29th. This was due to reduced demand from end-user markets and fewer large orders in China. The refrigeration sector’s demand remained low, impacting overall consumption. Additionally, low demand for refrigerants and blowing agents during the winter season further influenced prices. The trend is expected to remain stable at current levels.
In Q3, prices remained stable, largely influenced by the equilibrium between supply and demand. This steady pricing trend was a result of the careful interplay between the available supply of goods and the prevailing demand in the market, which prevented any significant fluctuations despite varying economic conditions.
Continuing the upward trend, cyclopentane prices in China saw considerable fluctuations in Q2 2024, finishing the quarter at around $1,150 per metric ton in June. This rise in prices was driven by increased demand for refrigerants both internationally and domestically during the summer, combined with a constrained supply.
During the initial quarter (Q1) of 2024, cyclopentane prices in China reached $1,550 per metric ton, as material shortages led to a slight upward adjustment in the price. The cyclopentane market is confronted volatile crude oil prices and supply shortages. As cyclopentane is produced from crude oil, shifts in oil prices can influence production expenses and market prices.