China
India
Thailand
Indonesia
United States
Mexico
Canada
BrazilIn Q1 2025, the Asian isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market, specifically on an FOB China basis, recorded a notable increase of 1.2% compared to Q4 2024. This growth was supported by improved downstream demand, particularly from the pharmaceutical and cosmetic sectors, along with tighter supply conditions due to reduced plant operating rates in China. Additionally, steady export volumes and firm inquiries from Southeast Asian countries had contributed to price stability and a positive quarterly trend. In contrast, the North American IPA market experienced a sharp downturn, with FOB USA prices falling by -13.9% in Q1 2025. This decline was largely attributed to surplus inventory levels, weak domestic consumption, and aggressive competition from overseas suppliers, particularly from Asia. Meanwhile, the European IPA market, represented by FOB Netherlands, saw a decrease of -11.8% quarter-on-quarter, driven by persistent economic sluggishness in the region, high energy costs, and lower industrial activity, especially in United Kingdom and neighboring countries. Despite regional disparities, global IPA markets were influenced by shifting trade dynamics and ongoing supply-demand imbalances.
In Q4 2024, the isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market in Asia experienced a significant decline of -14.3% compared to Q3 2024, driven by persistent oversupply, weakened spot demand, and downward pressure on feedstock costs. Despite stable consumption from core sectors like pharmaceuticals and solvents, improved domestic production and reduced export activity led to an accumulation of inventories, pushing prices down sharply across the region. In contrast, the North American IPA market saw a strong rebound, with prices surging by 19.2% during the quarter. This sharp increase was supported by tightened supply due to unplanned plant outages and stronger seasonal demand, particularly from the healthcare and disinfectant industries. Meanwhile, the European market registered a moderate decrease of -3.2% in quarter-on-quarter. The decline was attributed to mild industrial activity and sufficient supply levels, though the fall was less severe due to relatively steady demand and better market balance compared to Asia. Overall, Q4 2024 reflected divergent market dynamics globally, with Asia facing a pronounced downturn while the U.S. market tightened significantly.
In Q3 2024, the Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market in Asia witnessed a sharp decline of -9.3% compared to Q2 2024, driven by persistent oversupply, subdued downstream demand from the pharmaceutical and industrial sectors, and competitive pricing pressure from regional suppliers. Despite expectations of demand recovery, high inventory levels and limited procurement activity led to a significant drop in prices across major Asian markets. Similarly, the North American IPA market recorded a decline of -6.2%, largely influenced by weak consumption patterns, particularly in the cleaning and personal care sectors, and increased availability of lower-priced imports. In contrast, the European IPA market showed signs of recovery, with prices rising by 6.3% over the quarter. This increase was supported by a moderate rebound in demand from the coating and cosmetic sectors, alongside tightening regional supply due to plant turnarounds and reduced import volumes. Overall, global IPA pricing trends in Q3 2024 were marked by regional divergence, with Asia and the U.S. facing downward pressure while Europe saw a modest recovery.
In Q2 2024, the Asia isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market recorded a decline of -1.7% compared to Q1 2024, driven by lower import costs, high inventory levels, and weakened demand from downstream sectors such as pharmaceuticals and solvents. Market activity remained sluggish throughout the quarter, with oversupply dampening any potential price recovery. Similarly, the North American IPA market saw a -2.0%, as domestic demand remained soft and production levels steady, contributing to market oversaturation. The European market experienced the steepest decline, with prices falling by -16.5%, primarily due to weak industrial demand, increased competition from imports, and ongoing economic challenges across key countries like Germany and France. Overall, global IPA markets faced sustained downward pressure throughout the quarter amid muted consumption and sufficient supply.
In Q1 2024, the Asian isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market, particularly across China, Thailand, and Indonesia, witnessed a significant increase of 3.1% compared to Q4 2023. This growth was driven by strong post-holiday recovery in industrial activity, improved demand from pharmaceutical and personal care sectors, and tightened supply conditions due to scheduled plant maintenance and reduced output in key Chinese facilities. Robust export demand, especially from Southeast Asian countries, also supported upward pricing momentum throughout the quarter. In the United States, the IPA market showed a steady improvement, with FOB USA prices increasing by 5.6% quarter-on-quarter. The rise was attributed to seasonal upticks in demand and a more balanced inventory level compared to previous quarters, which allowed suppliers to push for higher prices. The European market experienced the most substantial change, with FOB Netherlands prices surging by 24% in Q1 2024. This drastic increase was primarily fueled by constrained local supply due to production outages, along with rising raw material and energy costs across the EU. Additionally, increased spot buying activity and a rebound in industrial consumption, particularly in Germany and France, further contributed to the sharp price escalation. Overall, global IPA markets reflected a strong rebound in Q1 2024, driven by both regional recovery and tightening supply fundamentals.
In Q1 2025, India’s Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market saw a significant increase of 15.2% in Ex-India prices compared to Q1 2024, driven by stronger demand, supply constraints, and higher production costs. The market benefited from improved consumption in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and personal care, which led to increased transaction volumes and higher export activity. This upward momentum was further supported by supply disruptions from key manufacturing regions, tightening global availability. Meanwhile, CIF India prices saw a modest increase of 2.4% compared to Q4 2023, driven by higher import demand and limited local supply. This increase was bolstered by stronger procurement from Indian buyers, who took advantage of favorable market conditions. Despite these gains, the overall market sentiment remained cautious, as concerns about potential global price fluctuations lingered.
In Q4 2024, India’s Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market saw a significant downturn, with Ex-India prices declining by -11.3% compared to Q4 2024, driven by weak regional demand, high inventory levels and reduced purchasing activity from downstream sectors such as pharmaceuticals and personal care. Market activity remained limited throughout the quarter, as buyers focused on destocking and delayed fresh procurement amid falling global chemical prices. CIF India prices also dropped sharply by -12.4% quarter-on-quarter, reflecting muted import appetite and sufficient domestic supply. Despite stable production levels, the lack of substantial recovery signals and continued caution among buyers kept overall sentiment bearish.
In Q3 2024, India’s Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market experienced a decline of -4.9% in Ex-India prices compared to Q2 2024, primarily driven by weakened demand and overproduction. The slowdown in downstream sectors, including pharmaceuticals and personal care, contributed to lower consumption, while supply continued to outpace demand. Export activity from China also remained subdued, with limited inquiries from key regional markets. Meanwhile, CIF India prices fell by -7.8% during the same period, reflecting weaker import demand and increased competition from other suppliers. The decline was further exacerbated by the persistent softness in domestic consumption and a shift in buying behavior, with Indian buyers adopting a cautious approach amid global price volatility. Despite some intermittent supply adjustments, overall market sentiment remained bearish, and the quarter closed with a notable decline in prices.
In Q2 2024, India’s Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market saw a decline of -7.3% in Ex-India prices compared to Q1 2024, primarily driven by reduced import costs, high inventory levels, and decreased demand from downstream industries such as pharmaceuticals and personal care. The market experienced ongoing challenges due to subdued consumption and an oversupply, resulting in a decline in prices. Conversely, CIF India prices increased by 4.8% during the same period, supported by a rise in import demand as Indian buyers sought to replenish inventories. This uptick in CIF prices was further driven by higher production costs and a tighter supply from key exporting regions. Despite the increase in CIF India prices, the overall market sentiment remained cautious, with mixed signals from both domestic and international markets.
In Q1 2024, India’s Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) market saw a significant increase of 15.2% in Ex-India prices compared to Q1 2024, driven by stronger demand, supply constraints, and higher production costs. The market benefited from improved consumption in key sectors such as pharmaceuticals and personal care, which led to increased transaction volumes and higher export activity. This upward momentum was further supported by supply disruptions from key manufacturing regions, tightening global availability. Meanwhile, CIF India prices saw a modest increase of 2.4% compared to Q4 2023, driven by higher import demand and limited local supply. This increase was bolstered by stronger procurement from Indian buyers, who took advantage of favorable market conditions. Despite these gains, the overall market sentiment remained cautious, as concerns about potential global price fluctuations lingered.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol, is a transparent, colorless, and highly volatile liquid with a distinct smell. It is a versatile solvent and disinfectant used across various industries for its effective cleaning, degreasing, and antimicrobial properties.
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 |
| Freezing Point | -88.5°C (-123.7°F) |
| Boiling Point @ 760mm Hg | 82.2°C (180.0°F) |
| Flash Point – Closed Cup | 12°C (53°F) |
| Autoignition Temperature | 425°C |
| Density @ 20°C | 0.787 kg/L 6.57 lb/gal |
| Vapor Pressure @ 20°C | 4.1 kPa |
| Solubility in Water @ 20°C | Miscible |
| Surface Tension @ 20°C | 23 mN/m |
| Refractive Index @ 20°C | 1.376 |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | 2.4 cP |
| Lower Explosive Limit | 2 v/v% |
| Upper Explosive Limit | 12 v/v% |
| Heat of Vaporization @ normal boiling point | 664 kJ/kg |
| 31000 | |
| Odor Threshold | 22 ppm |
| Evaporation Rate (nBuAc = 1) | 1.5 |
| Conductivity @ 20°C | 6 μS/m |
| Dielectric Constant @ 20°C | 18.6 |
| Specific Heat @ 20°C | 2.6 kJ/kg/°C |
Applications
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is a fast-drying, versatile solvent with widespread industrial applications due to its strong cleaning and antimicrobial properties. In pharmaceuticals, IPA is a key ingredient in hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and medical equipment sterilization. In the electronics sector, it is used to clean and degrease components without leaving residue. The manufacturing industry utilizes IPA as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, and inks, while the automotive sector employs it in deicing fluids, fuel additives, and part cleaning. IPA is also used in personal care products like perfumes and is commonly employed as an industrial degreaser for machinery. Its quick evaporation rate compared to water and its ability to displace aggressive solvents like acetone or toluene further enhance its utility across sectors.
These events underscore the Isopropyl Alcohol 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 isopropyl alcohol price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the isopropyl alcohol 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 isopropyl alcohol prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely isopropyl alcohol market data.
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This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Isopropyl Alcohol pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), also known as 2-propanol, is a transparent, colorless, and highly volatile liquid with a distinct smell. It is a versatile solvent and disinfectant used across various industries for its effective cleaning, degreasing, and antimicrobial properties.
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 |
| Freezing Point | -88.5°C (-123.7°F) |
| Boiling Point @ 760mm Hg | 82.2°C (180.0°F) |
| Flash Point – Closed Cup | 12°C (53°F) |
| Autoignition Temperature | 425°C |
| Density @ 20°C | 0.787 kg/L 6.57 lb/gal |
| Vapor Pressure @ 20°C | 4.1 kPa |
| Solubility in Water @ 20°C | Miscible |
| Surface Tension @ 20°C | 23 mN/m |
| Refractive Index @ 20°C | 1.376 |
| Viscosity @ 20°C | 2.4 cP |
| Lower Explosive Limit | 2 v/v% |
| Upper Explosive Limit | 12 v/v% |
| Heat of Vaporization @ normal boiling point | 664 kJ/kg |
| 31000 | |
| Odor Threshold | 22 ppm |
| Evaporation Rate (nBuAc = 1) | 1.5 |
| Conductivity @ 20°C | 6 μS/m |
| Dielectric Constant @ 20°C | 18.6 |
| Specific Heat @ 20°C | 2.6 kJ/kg/°C |
Applications
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is a fast-drying, versatile solvent with widespread industrial applications due to its strong cleaning and antimicrobial properties. In pharmaceuticals, IPA is a key ingredient in hand sanitizers, disinfectants, and medical equipment sterilization. In the electronics sector, it is used to clean and degrease components without leaving residue. The manufacturing industry utilizes IPA as a solvent in coatings, adhesives, and inks, while the automotive sector employs it in deicing fluids, fuel additives, and part cleaning. IPA is also used in personal care products like perfumes and is commonly employed as an industrial degreaser for machinery. Its quick evaporation rate compared to water and its ability to displace aggressive solvents like acetone or toluene further enhance its utility across sectors.
The pricing of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) is influenced by several factors, including the cost of raw materials like propylene, which is derived from petroleum. Fluctuations in crude oil prices, supply and demand dynamics from key industries such as pharmaceuticals, personal care, and cleaning products, and production capacity constraints can all impact pricing. Additionally, feedstock availability, energy and operating costs, and logistics expenses, including freight rates and shipping constraints, contribute to price changes. Environmental regulations and geopolitical factors can disrupt supply chains, further affecting prices, while broader economic conditions and market speculation also play significant roles in determining IPA prices. These factors interact in creating a complex and dynamic pricing environment.
Regional demand plays a significant role in the pricing of Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA), as varying levels of consumption and industrial activity in different regions can lead to price fluctuations. In regions with high demand, such as North America, Europe, and parts of Asia, prices may rise due to increased consumption in sectors like pharmaceuticals, personal care, cleaning, and industrial applications. For instance, during health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, the surge in demand for sanitizers and disinfectants led to sharp price increases in regions with higher consumption rates. Conversely, in regions with lower demand or economic slowdowns, there may be an oversupply of IPA, which can push prices down. Additionally, supply chain dynamics, such as transportation costs, tariffs, and local production capabilities, also influence pricing in different regions. In areas where IPA is primarily imported, higher logistics or shipping costs can increase prices, while in regions with strong domestic production, prices might be more stable or lower due to reduced import dependence. Overall, regional demand, coupled with local production and logistical factors, can create significant pricing disparities across different markets.
Procurement teams can manage Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) price fluctuations by adopting a strategic and proactive approach. One effective strategy is diversifying suppliers, which helps mitigate risks associated with dependency on a single source and enables teams to take advantage of competitive pricing. Additionally, establishing long-term contracts or fixed-price agreements with suppliers can provide price stability, especially during periods of market volatility. Teams can also monitor market trends and economic indicators closely to anticipate price movements, ensuring they are prepared for fluctuations. In cases where IPA is critical for operations, building buffer stock during periods of lower prices can help hedge against price hikes. Collaboration with internal stakeholders is also crucial; procurement teams should work closely with production and inventory teams to align purchase strategies with actual demand, avoiding overstocking or understocking. Furthermore, leveraging alternative formulations or substitutes when appropriate, such as using lower-grade IPA or exploring different suppliers, can offer cost-saving opportunities. Lastly, staying informed about regional market conditions, trade policies, and logistical challenges is essential for managing risks tied to global supply chain disruptions. By adopting these strategies, procurement teams can better navigate IPA price fluctuations and ensure cost-effective procurement.
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