Malaysia
South Africa
Belgium
India
Singapore
Indonesia
Thailand
United StatesQ1 2025
In Q1 2025, Malaysia’s N-butanol export prices saw a decrease of 3.54%, reaching USD 841 per metric ton, primarily driven by slower demand in downstream industries such as coatings and adhesives, following the seasonal lull after the festive period. The reduction in prices also stemmed from fluctuations in propylene feedstock costs, which tightened supply chains and impacted production costs. CIF countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia, major importers of Malaysian N-butanol, saw relatively stable demand, but overall consumption from these regions remained subdued, reflecting the global trend of cautious spending. Similarly, in South Africa, the price of N-butanol in Q1 2025 dropped by 3.08% to USD 855 per metric ton. Belgium, the primary importer, experienced a seasonal decline in demand, driven by reduced industrial activity in key sectors like automotive and construction, leading to lower-than-expected consumption. The price decrease was further compounded by the impact of the European winter, which typically slows down production. Meanwhile, in the USA, N-butanol prices fell sharply by 10.15%, dropping to USD 852 per metric ton, reflecting a significant drop in downstream demand. The U.S. faced an oversupply of N-butanol in the market, exacerbated by reduced activity in the automotive and industrial coatings sectors. The lack of major disruptions in feedstock prices (propylene) could not fully offset the weaker demand, especially in the face of a post-holiday season downturn. Export challenges to Asia and lower domestic consumption added additional downward pressure to the market.
Q4 2024
In Q4 2024, Malaysia’s N-butanol export prices fell by a steep 13.03%, settling at USD 872 per metric ton, driven by a significant drop in demand from downstream industries like automotive and construction, which typically slow down during the holiday season. This decline also reflected a broader supply-demand imbalance, as an oversupply of propylene, a key feedstock, led to lower production costs, but demand remained lackluster across key markets like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia. The reduced demand from CIF countries coupled with a reduction in exports to Southeast Asia and beyond placed further downward pressure on prices. Similarly, in South Africa, Belgium saw an 8.20% price drop, with N-butanol prices falling to USD 882 per metric ton. This decrease was attributed to weaker demand from the construction and coatings sectors, as European countries traditionally slow down manufacturing and industrial activities towards the end of the year. Additionally, the dip in energy prices, particularly crude oil and natural gas, helped stabilize feedstock costs but could not prevent the overall downturn in demand. In the USA, the N-butanol market showed a more moderate decrease of 2.30%, with prices settling at USD 948 per metric ton. While the USA market did face a slight dip in demand from the coatings and automotive sectors, the drop was much smaller compared to Malaysia and South Africa. This relative resilience in the USA was supported by consistent feedstock prices and moderate demand, despite the seasonal slowdown.
Q3 2024
In Q3 2024, Malaysia’s N-butanol export prices rose by 3.50%, reaching USD 1002 per metric ton, marking a recovery from the previous quarter’s dip. This uptick was driven by an increase in demand from downstream industries, particularly in coatings and adhesives, as the post-summer season led to a rebound in manufacturing activities. Demand from key CIF countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia also showed improvement, particularly as these markets geared up for higher consumption during the latter part of the year. The stabilization of feedstock prices for propylene further supported production, allowing Malaysia to increase its export prices. In South Africa, Belgium’s N-butanol prices saw a slight decline of 2.22%, falling to USD 961 per metric ton. This drop was mainly attributed to lower demand in the automotive and construction sectors, where growth in manufacturing activity slowed after the mid-year peak. However, Belgium maintained relatively stable import levels due to ongoing demand from the chemicals and coatings industries. The feedstock cost for propylene remained stable, but the decline in demand from major European industrial players contributed to the minor price fall. Meanwhile, in the USA, N-butanol prices rose by 4.52%, reaching USD 970 per metric ton. The U.S. market experienced an uptick in demand, particularly from the automotive and industrial coatings sectors, which boosted overall consumption. The price increase was also supported by strong export demand from Latin America and parts of Asia, alongside the relatively stable feedstock prices for propylene, which helped maintain production margins.
Q2 2024
In Q2 2024, Malaysia’s N-butanol export prices surged by 7.85%, reaching USD 968 per metric ton, largely driven by a strong uptick in demand from the coatings and adhesives industries, as well as from CIF countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia. The mid-year recovery in manufacturing activities across Southeast Asia supported this price rise, particularly in the automotive sector. The feedstock market also showed a tightening of supply, as propylene prices rose, adding pressure to production costs. Despite the price increase, Malaysia continued to maintain its competitive position within the region, benefiting from stable export markets and rising demand. South Africa’s N-butanol prices saw a notable increase of 11.58%, reaching USD 983 per metric ton, driven by stronger demand from the European coatings and automotive industries. The mid-year period, characterized by seasonal demand in the construction and coatings sectors, supported the price rise, with the European summer fueling industrial activity. The rise in propylene prices further contributed to the increased production costs, pushing up the overall price of N-butanol. Belgium, as the major importer, saw the benefits of these rising prices, while maintaining steady import levels. The USA also experienced a 4.28% price increase, with N-butanol prices climbing to USD 928 per metric ton. This was mainly driven by increased demand from the automotive, coating, and construction sectors, which saw positive growth during the warmer months. Additionally, the stabilization of feedstock prices and improved export demand from Latin American and Asian markets helped support the price rise in the U.S.
Q1 2024
In Q1 2024, Malaysia’s N-butanol export prices rose by 1.97%, reaching USD 898 per metric ton. This slight increase was largely attributed to a seasonal uptick in demand following the festive period, with key CIF countries like Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia showing moderate recovery in demand. The coating and adhesives industries, which saw some rebound post-holiday, contributed to this price rise. Propylene feedstock prices remained stable, helping to support production costs. In South Africa, Belgium experienced a modest price increase of 1.46%, reaching USD 881 per metric ton. This minor uptick was driven by a slight recovery in demand from the European coatings and automotive sectors, although the overall demand remained soft compared to the mid-year peak. The stability in feedstock costs and a moderate recovery in industrial activity helped Belgium maintain stable imports. Meanwhile, in the USA, the N-butanol market faced a 2.53% decline in prices, with the price falling to USD 890 per metric ton. This decrease was mainly due to reduced demand in the automotive and coatings sectors, which typically slowed down in the first quarter of the year. The dip in feedstock costs, particularly for propylene, also contributed to the lower production costs but could not fully offset the reduced demand, resulting in the overall price decrease.
Q1 2025
In Q1 2025, the price of N-butanol across all markets in India showed a decline compared to the previous quarter. The CIF price dropped by 3.26%, reaching USD 899 per metric ton, influenced by stable demand in downstream sectors like automotive and pharmaceuticals, where consumption slowed due to post-festive seasonality. The Ex-Kandla bulk price decreased by 3.83%, reaching USD 984 per metric ton, a result of reduced import volumes and a slight decrease in feedstock supply from Malaysia. Retail prices, however, showed a marginal increase of 0.54% in Ex-Kandla, driven by limited retail demand, indicating a sluggish recovery after the festive demand spike. Similarly, Ex-Vizag prices fell by 3.87% due to lower purchasing activity from key domestic consumers and adjustments to supply chain volumes. Feedstock prices of propylene and other petrochemicals remained stable, impacting the production costs of N-butanol. However, logistical delays and higher freight rates from Malaysia to India contributed to the slight dip in pricing. Overall, market sentiments remained weak due to a low consumption period.
Q4 2024
Q4 2024 marked a sharp drop in N-butanol prices across all markets in India. The CIF price decreased by 13.47%, settling at USD 929 per metric ton. This drop was mainly attributed to seasonal factors, as post-Diwali demand weakened, and higher-than-expected stock levels reduced immediate import requirements. The Ex-Kandla (Bulk) price also dropped by 14.27%, to USD 1023 per metric ton, reflecting both a seasonal decline in bulk demand from industrial sectors and weaker supply chain activity. In Ex-Kandla retail, the drop was less severe, standing at -14.61%, with prices falling to USD 1118 per metric ton. The retail market was more insulated from drastic fluctuations but still felt the impact of lower consumption from small and medium enterprises. Ex-Vizag prices also took a significant hit, decreasing by 14.64% to USD 992 per metric ton. This was largely due to the reduction in Andhra Petrochem’s output and the overstock during the preceding months. The feed stock market saw slight fluctuations, but the overall trend was towards lower prices due to slack demand in the chemical and solvent sectors.
Q3 2024
In Q3 2024, N-butanol prices showed a minor decline across India. The CIF price fell by 1.59%, to USD 1074 per metric ton. The dip was driven by stable import volumes from Malaysia, coupled with an easing in demand from downstream industries such as coatings and adhesives. Ex-Kandla (Bulk) decreased by 1.75%, reaching USD 1193 per metric ton, while the retail segment faced a slight uptick of 0.70%, closing at USD 1309 per metric ton. Retail prices were bolstered by some restocking activities ahead of the festive season, though the increase was moderate. Ex-Vizag saw a reduction of 1.71%, bringing the price to USD 1162 per metric ton. Like other markets, Ex-Vizag pricing was impacted by fluctuating demand from the downstream sectors and the ongoing adjustments in inventory management. The feedstock situation remained stable, with minimal fluctuations in prices of key inputs like propylene, which helped stabilize production costs for N-butanol. The market generally showed signs of stability as industries awaited the end of the monsoon season and the potential for demand recovery.
Q2 2024
Q2 2024 witnessed a significant upward movement in N-butanol prices across India, reflecting stronger demand following the festive season and the initial recovery in the automotive and construction sectors. The CIF price increased by 10.27%, reaching USD 1057 per metric ton. This rise was driven by a strong rise in demand, particularly from the coating and paints sectors, as well as some replenishment of stocks in preparation for peak manufacturing months. The Ex-Kandla (Bulk) price decreased slightly by 1.31%, closing at USD 1214 per metric ton, impacted by oversupply in the bulk segment and sluggish demand from industrial buyers. However, Ex-Kandla (Retail) saw a remarkable 19.71% increase, reaching USD 1336 per metric ton, driven by higher consumption from retail sectors due to improved end-user demand. The Ex-Vizag (Andhra Petrochem) price also saw an increase of 11.57%, reaching USD 1201 per metric ton, supported by strong consumption from regional players. The feedstock market remained relatively stable, with slight upward pressure from global propylene prices, but this was not enough to offset the stronger demand driving prices up. The market enjoyed a brief boom due to post-holiday demand.
Q1 2024
In Q1 2024, N-butanol prices across India saw a moderate increase compared to Q4 2023. The CIF price rose by 4.14%, to USD 959 per metric ton, reflecting a mild rebound in demand from the downstream automotive and pharmaceutical sectors after the slower year-end period. The Ex-Kandla (Bulk) price rose by 11.26%, reaching USD 1231 per metric ton, driven by a slight pick-up in bulk consumption, particularly from industrial and chemical sectors. The Ex-Kandla (Retail) price also saw a significant increase of 19.71%, reaching USD 1336 per metric ton, driven by improved demand in the retail market post-festivals. Retail buyers replenished inventories at higher rates to meet the early-year demand surge. Ex-Vizag prices rose by 11.57%, reaching USD 1201 per metric ton, as regional demand from Andhra Petrochem’s customers picked up, particularly from sectors like automotive and construction. Feedstock prices for N-butanol rose slightly due to the increased global demand for petrochemicals, further supporting the price increase. The price uptick was also aided by logistical improvements following the end of transportation disruptions during the festive season.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
n-Butanol is a primary alcohol derived from the oxo process, using propylene and syngas as key feedstocks. This versatile solvent feature excellent miscibility and is widely used in paints, coatings, adhesives, and plasticizers. Its role as a chemical intermediate in butyl acrylates and butyl acetates production makes it essential in industrial and consumer applications.
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 |
| Appearance | Colourless liquid |
| Purity | 99.5% |
| Density (20 °C) | 0.81 g/mL |
| Boiling Point | 119 °C |
| Freezing Point | -90 °C |
| Vapour Pressure (20 °C) | 4.2 mm Hg |
| Specific Gravity | 0.810 |
| Viscosity (20 °C) | 2.947 mm2/s |
| Surface Tension (dynes/cm) | 24.2 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 355 °C |
Applications
n-Butanol is used mainly as a feedstock/intermediate to make other chemicals including:
Butyl acetate: A solvent used in paints, coatings, and adhesives.
Butyl acrylate: Used in the production of acrylic resins for coatings, adhesives, and sealants.
Glycol ethers: Employed in the manufacturing of cleaning agents, paints, and inks.
Butylamines: Used in pharmaceuticals, agriculture chemicals, and rubber additives.
Esters: Formed with acids, used in flavors, fragrances, and solvents.
Butyl ethers: Applied as fuel additives and solvents.
Supply Chain Disruptions: The conflict has impacted the supply chains for raw materials and energy sources, causing delays and shortages that drive up production costs for n-Butanol.
Energy Prices: Increased volatility in oil and gas prices resulting from the conflict has directly affected the production costs of n-Butanol, as energy is a key input in its manufacturing.
Market Uncertainty: The geopolitical tensions have created uncertainty in global markets, leading to speculative trading and fluctuating prices as companies adjust to the evolving situation.
Export Restrictions: Sanctions and trade restrictions imposed on Russia and Ukraine have further strained supply chains, affecting the availability of key feedstocks and raising prices.
Disruption of Supply Chains: Lockdowns and restrictions led to factory closures and transportation delays, disrupting the supply chains for raw materials and finished products, which affected n-Butanol availability.
Demand Shifts: The pandemic altered demand dynamics, with increased needs in specific sectors such as pharmaceuticals, sanitizers, and packaging materials, while demand from industries like automotive and textiles declined sharply.
Production Halts: Many manufacturers scaled back or halted production during peak lockdown periods, leading to temporary shortages in the market, which contributed to price volatility.
Economic Uncertainty: The overall economic instability during the pandemic created uncertainty in the market, causing fluctuations in pricing as companies adjusted their production and inventory strategies.
Increased Production Costs: The pandemic also increased operating costs due to health and safety measures, logistical challenges, and rising energy prices. These higher production costs contributed to fluctuations in n-butanol prices.
Trade Wars: Ongoing trade disputes, particularly between major economies like the U.S. and China, created uncertainty in the market. Tariffs on chemicals and raw materials affected production costs and availability, leading to price volatility.
Market Speculation: Heightened geopolitical risks triggered speculative trading behaviour in commodity markets, causing prices to swing as traders react to news and developments.
These events underscore the n-Butanol market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
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PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global n-butanol price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the n-butanol market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.
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Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
n-Butanol is a primary alcohol derived from the oxo process, using propylene and syngas as key feedstocks. This versatile solvent feature excellent miscibility and is widely used in paints, coatings, adhesives, and plasticizers. Its role as a chemical intermediate in butyl acrylates and butyl acetates production makes it essential in industrial and consumer applications.
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 |
| Appearance | Colourless liquid |
| Purity | 99.5% |
| Density (20 °C) | 0.81 g/mL |
| Boiling Point | 119 °C |
| Freezing Point | -90 °C |
| Vapour Pressure (20 °C) | 4.2 mm Hg |
| Specific Gravity | 0.810 |
| Viscosity (20 °C) | 2.947 mm2/s |
| Surface Tension (dynes/cm) | 24.2 |
| Autoignition Temperature | 355 °C |
Applications
n-Butanol is used mainly as a feedstock/intermediate to make other chemicals including:
Butyl acetate: A solvent used in paints, coatings, and adhesives.
Butyl acrylate: Used in the production of acrylic resins for coatings, adhesives, and sealants.
Glycol ethers: Employed in the manufacturing of cleaning agents, paints, and inks.
Butylamines: Used in pharmaceuticals, agriculture chemicals, and rubber additives.
Esters: Formed with acids, used in flavors, fragrances, and solvents.
Butyl ethers: Applied as fuel additives and solvents.
The pricing of n-butanol is influenced by several factors, including raw material costs such as propylene, fluctuations in supply and demand within industries like paints, coatings, and adhesives, as well as external elements like geopolitical events, trade tariffs, and energy prices. These factors combine to create variability in pricing depending on global economic conditions.
Regional production plays a significant role in n-butanol pricing. Regions with high production, like Asia-Pacific, tend to have more competitive pricing due to local availability, whereas regions that rely on imports, such as North America and Europe, often face higher costs due to transportation fees, import duties, and potential supply chain disruptions.
The latest pricing trends for n-butanol often reflect fluctuations in the cost of raw materials and changes in global supply chains. To secure better rates, procurement heads can consider locking in long-term contracts with suppliers, monitoring global price trends and indices, and optimizing bulk purchasing strategies to take advantage of volume discounts.
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