Dimethyl Terephthalate Pricing Assessment

  • Commodity Pricing

dimethyl terephthalate Markets Covered: 

krKorea
inIndia
idIndonesia
jpJapan
cnChina
deGermany
usUnited States

dimethyl terephthalate Markets Covered: 

Global dimethyl terephthalate Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, DMT Briquettes prices declined to 1603 USD/MT FOB Busan, a 1.84% drop from Q4 2024. The market showed signs of continued stabilization, with supply remaining abundant and demand growth from end-use industries like textiles, packaging, and resins staying modest. As global polyester-related activity showed no significant uptick post-holiday season, buyers in South Korea continued adopting a cautious purchasing approach, awaiting clearer signals from global commodity and crude-linked markets. 

In Q4 2024, DMT (Dimethyl Terephthalate) Briquettes prices dipped slightly to 1633 USD/MT FOB Busan, marking a 0.49% decline quarter-on-quarter. This downward movement was primarily attributed to softening export demand, particularly from Southeast Asian and Indian markets, where buyers showed greater price sensitivity. The domestic market maintained a steady pace, but the absence of major procurement drives kept prices under mild pressure. 

By Q3 2024, the South Korean Dimethyl Terephthalate (DMT) Briquettes market entered a phase of mild correction, with prices averaging around 1641 USD/MT FOB Busan (South Korea), reflecting a marginal 0.06% decline from the previous quarter. The market remained largely stable, supported by steady domestic demand from downstream sectors like polyester resins and PET plastics. Despite a slight dip, ample availability of feedstock and uninterrupted plant operations maintained a balanced supply situation, which kept prices from any sharp downturn. 

In Q2 2024, the global Dimethyl Terephthalate (DMT) Briquettes Market experienced a bullish trend. The APAC market saw a significant price increase driven by supply-demand imbalance, rising global freight rates and higher Styrene and Acrylonitrile feedstock costs. Unplanned plant shutdowns exacerbated supply constraints, while robust demand from downstream sectors, particularly the automotive industry, contributed to the bullish trend.  

In Q1 2024, the global Dimethyl Terephthalate (DMT) Briquettes market experienced a mixed trend, driven by increased feedstock Terephthalic acid and Methanol prices and robust demand from key sectors such as like Polyester production, Textiles, Resins and coatings Automotive applications. The APAC region experienced a decline in trend while north America and European region experienced an increase in trend. The Lunar New Year festivities further enhanced demand for consumer products, resulting in increased production and higher Terephthalic acid 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 DMT prices during this period. 

India dimethyl terephthalate Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2025, the DMT Briquette 99.9% Purity grade prices decreased to 1714 USD/MT Ex-Mumbai, reflected a 1.56% quarter-on-quarter decline. The market witnessed stable to moderate demand, while supplies from South Korea remained uninterrupted. Some importers held back on bulk buying, anticipating clearer policy direction post-budget. Despite the small correction, prices largely stayed within a tight band, indicating a relatively stable market environment with no sharp fluctuations. 

In Q4 2024, the DMT (Dimethyl Terephthalate) Briquette 99.9% Purity grade price corrected slightly to 1741 USD/MT Ex-Mumbai, show a 1.62% decline from the previous quarter. This mild pullback came as inventories across Indian ports stabilized, and several end-users opted for a wait-and-watch approach amid expectations of fiscal announcements in the upcoming quarter. Additionally, late-year demand from the polyester segment softened slightly, typical of year-end seasonality. 

In Q3 2024, DMT (Dimethyl Terephthalate) Briquette 99.9% Purity grade prices continued their upward trajectory, albeit at a slower pace, reached 1770 USD/MT Ex-Mumbai, a 1.95% gain from Q2. The moderation in price rise was attributed to softening international freight costs and a relatively stable feedstock environment. However, the consistent offtake from packaging and textile-grade PET segments provided a cushion against any notable price correction. 

In Q2 2024, DMT (Dimethyl Terephthalate) Briquette 99.9% Purity grade prices surged further to 1736 USD/MT Ex-Mumbai, reflected a 6.33% rise quarter-on-quarter. The market saw strong procurement activity from end-use sectors like PET resin manufacturing, where seasonal beverage demand typically picks up. Additionally, steady South Korean export volumes helped ensure a balanced supply, keeping Indian importers actively engaged. 

In Q1 2024, the Indian market for DMT (Dimethyl Terephthalate) Briquette 99.9% Purity grade imported from South Korea began on a positive note, with prices averaging 1633 USD/MT Ex-Mumbai, registering a 4.41% increase from the previous quarter. This uptrend was largely driven by improved demand from the downstream polyester and resins industries. Increased buying interest amid stable crude oil derivatives pricing contributed to a firm start to the year. 

dimethyl terephthalate Parameters Covered: 

  • p-Xylene(para-xylene)
  • Methanol
  • South Korea
  •  Germany
  • Production of Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyester Fiber and Yarn, Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers 
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  •  USA

dimethyl terephthalate Parameters Covered: 

  • p-Xylene(para-xylene)
  • Methanol
  • South Korea
  •  Germany
  • Production of Polyethylene Terephthalate, Polyester Fiber and Yarn, Thermoplastic Polyester Elastomers 
  • Indonesia
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  •  USA

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's dimethyl terephthalate 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.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Dimethyl Terephthalate 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 Terephthalic acid and Methanol which is derived from petrochemical processes. This led to increased production costs and supply disruptions in European DMT 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 DMT industry. This disruption, combined with reduced demand from key sectors like Polyester production, Textiles, Resins and coatings Automotive applications, contributed to fluctuations in DMT prices during this period. 
  • U.S.-China Trade War (2018-2019): Tariffs on chemicals, including DMT disrupted global trade flows, leading to price volatility due to supply chain uncertainties, especially between the U.S. and China. 

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 DMT   production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire DMT supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g. Terephthalic acid and Methanol) 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 DMT   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 DMT 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. Terephthalic acid and Methanol), to predict shifts in DMT demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global DMT   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 DMT 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 automotive, consumer goods and electronics. 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 DMT   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 DMT 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 DMT pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

194.19 g/mol.

CAS No

120-61-6.

HS Code

29173700

Molecular Formula

C10H10O4
dimethyl terephthalate

Dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) is a versatile organic compound widely used as a key intermediate in the production of polyesters, particularly polyethylene terephthalate (PET). This colorless, crystalline substance is essential in manufacturing textiles, packaging materials, and engineering plastics. DMT offers excellent properties such as durability and chemical resistance, making it ideal for various applications, including automotive components and coatings. Its role in sustainable materials also enhances its importance in modern manufacturing.

Packaging Type

1000 Kg Bag

Grades Covered

99.9% Purity DMT

Incoterms Used

FOB Busan, CIF Jakarta (South Korea), Ex-Mumbai, CIF Nhavasheva (South Korea), CIF Jakarta (South Korea), CIF Yokohama (South Korea), FOB Hamburg, CIF Houston (Germany).

Synonym

DMT, 1,4-Benzenedicarboxylic acid, dimethyl ester, Dimethyl 1,4-benzenedicarboxylate

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

10-15 MT (FOB Hamburg) , 15-20 MT (FOB Busan), 5-10 MT(Ex-Mumbai)

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   White  
Odor  Slight 
Viscosity @150   3.1 cP 
Melting point  140-142 °C 
 Boiling point   288 °C 
 Specific Gravity @ 25°C  1.05 
 Flash Point  153 °C  
Auto-ignition Temperature  496 °C  

Applications

Dimethyl terephthalate (DMT) is primarily used in producing polyesters, notably polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which is essential for textiles, packaging, and plastic bottles. It also contributes to manufacturing polyester resins for paints and adhesives. Additionally, DMT serves as an intermediate in organic synthesis and plays a role in recycling PET plastics, enhancing sustainability efforts. Its versatility extends to various industrial applications, including electronics and automotive sectors. 

Dimethyl Terephthalate price 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 dimethyl terephthalate. 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 pricing of DMT is influenced by several key factors, including raw material costs (such as para-xylene and methanol), production capacity, supply and demand dynamics, global economic conditions, and fluctuations in feedstock prices. Additionally, transportation costs and regional market conditions can significantly impact pricing.

Fluctuations in the prices of raw materials, particularly para-xylene and methanol, have a direct impact on DMT costs. When raw material prices rise, manufacturers often pass these costs onto consumers, leading to higher DMT prices. Conversely, if raw material prices decrease, DMT prices may also decline, making it crucial for procurement heads to monitor these trends closely.

Long-term price trends for DMT are typically influenced by market demand, production capacity expansions, and geopolitical factors. To effectively plan your procurement strategy, consider establishing flexible contracts, diversifying suppliers, and keeping an eye on market forecasts. Regularly reviewing market intelligence reports can help anticipate price changes and secure favorable purchasing conditions.

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