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Ethylene Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 15111504
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

ethylene Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
deGermany
cnChina
inIndia
saSaudi Arabia
jpJapan

ethylene Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India ethylene market price trend
  • Southern India ethylene market price trend
  • Central India ethylene market price trend

Global ethylene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

Ethylene Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Ethylene market showed uneven performance across regions. Western markets demonstrated strong price gains, supported by strong downstream demand and supply constraints, while European regions experienced slight declines due to soft industrial consumption despite stable feedstock conditions. Asia-Pacific markets were mixed, with moderate increases in some areas countered by weakness in others amid competitive export dynamics.

Middle Eastern pricing remained largely stable, mirroring consistent supply and balanced demand. In general, the market stayed regionally balanced, underpinned by divergent regional demand trends, feedstock dynamics, and freight conditions. Regional supply chain fundamentals and disparate downstream consumption patterns continued to drive pricing during the quarter.

Argentina

Ethylene Import Price in Argentina from USA, >99% CIF Buenos Aires (USA).

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Argentina has recorded a strong upward trend, driven by robust domestic demand from Polyethylene and downstream chemical sectors. Import costs increased alongside higher Ethane feedstock pricing from the U.S. Gulf Coast, placing upward pressure on overall product pricing. Despite stable supply availability, freight and logistics costs added to the total expense. CIF Buenos Aires prices were between USD 500–610 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly increase of 11.34%.

In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Argentina have surged by 12.48% from the previous month, underscoring strong demand momentum and limited supply flexibility. The Ethylene price trend in Argentina has stayed bullish, supported by consistent consumption in packaging, construction, and industrial goods manufacturing, while market activity stayed firm throughout the quarter.

Belgium

Ethylene Domestically Traded Price in Belgium, >99% FD Antwerp.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Belgium has remained under slight downward pressure, reflecting soft demand from European polymer and chemical derivative industries. Polyethylene producers operated at reduced rates amid weak construction and automotive activity, keeping market sentiment cautious. FD Antwerp prices ranged between USD 800–900 per metric ton, marking a quarterly decline of 1.23%.

In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Belgium rose by 7.13% from the previous month, indicating tentative recovery sentiment in spite of subdued overall demand. The Ethylene price trend in Belgium has been shaped by stable local cracker output, moderate Naphtha feedstock fluctuations, and limited restocking by downstream converters. Overall, market conditions have stayed cautious, with pricing influenced by demand weakness more than supply constraints.

China

Ethylene Import Price in China from South Korea, >99% CIF Shanghai (South Korea).

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in China has shown moderate gains in spite of an oversupplied domestic market. Import demand from South Korea remained steady, supported by healthy operating rates at downstream Ethylene glycol and Polyethylene plants. CIF Shanghai prices ranged between USD 790–840 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly increase of 2.64%.

According to PriceWatch, in September 2025, Ethylene prices in China have declined by 2.28% from the last month, showing a softening buying interest amid ample local supply. The Ethylene price trend in China has been influenced by easing logistics costs, limited feedstock volatility, and domestic capacity expansions that continue to constrain strong price upside. Market balance is expected to remain tight, with near-term stability anticipated.

Germany

Ethylene Domestically Traded Price in Germany, >99% FD Hamburg.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Germany has trended lower amid weak demand from key industrial sectors, including automotive and construction. Downstream Polyethylene converters maintained low operating rates, limiting offtake from domestic crackers. FD Hamburg prices ranged between USD 810–910 per metric ton, mirroring a quarterly decline of 1.73%.

In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Germany have risen by 6.43% from the previous month, suggesting temporary buyer interest amid constant oversupplies. The Ethylene price trend in Germany has been altered by steady supply and limited Naphtha cost support. Market sentiment remained cautious, with pricing under pressure due to weak industrial activity and subdued domestic consumption. The outlook has remained soft, pending stronger demand from the automotive and construction sectors.

Japan

Ethylene Export Price from Japan, >99% FOB Tokyo.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Japan has declined due to weak regional demand and increased competition from Middle Eastern and Chinese suppliers. Domestic cracker operations remained stable, but export volumes were limited by softer buying interest from Northeast Asian buyers. FOB Tokyo prices ranged between USD 750–820 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly decrease of 1.50%.

According to PriceWatch, in September 2025, Ethylene prices in Japan have declined by 3.75% from the last month, reflecting continued softening in regional export demand. The Ethylene price trend in Japan was shaped by flat Naphtha feedstock costs and competitive pricing strategies to secure export contracts. Overall, market sentiment has remained cautious, with limited near-term recovery expected in the export segment.

Netherlands

Ethylene Domestically Traded Price in Netherlands, >99% FD Rotterdam.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Netherlands has shown slight weakness, reflecting subdued demand from downstream polymer and chemical sectors. Packaging and automotive applications remained soft, keeping market sentiment cautious. FD Rotterdam prices ranged between USD 780–870 per metric ton, marking a quarterly decline of 1.49%. In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Netherlands have risen by 7.39% from the previous month, indicating tentative buying activity amid stable supply.

The Ethylene price trend in Netherlands has been influenced by steady output from integrated petrochemical complexes and moderate Naphtha cost fluctuations. Overall, market conditions have remained restrained, with pricing pressure dictated primarily by weak regional consumption.

Qatar

Ethylene Import Price in Qatar from Saudi Arabia, >99% CIF Hamad (Saudi Arabia).

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Qatar has remained nearly flat, supported by stable supply from neighbouring Saudi Arabia and steady local demand. CIF Hamad prices stayed between USD 860–910 per metric ton, reflecting a marginal quarterly increase. In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Qatar went down by 2.36% from the previous month, signalling minor easing in market activity.

The Ethylene price trend in Qatar has been shaped by consistent feedstock availability from Gulf cracker complexes and steady procurement by Polyethylene and chemical derivative sectors. Overall, market conditions have remained balanced, with no major disruptions or cost pressures influencing pricing in the short term.

Saudi Arabia

Ethylene Export Price from Saudi Arabia, >99% FOB Jeddah.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Saudi Arabia has remained stable, underpinned by consistent demand from Asian and European importers. Cracker operations across Jubail and Yanbu complexes continued at high rates, ensuring reliable supply. FOB Jeddah prices ranged between USD 760–820 per metric ton, mirroring a slight quarterly gain.

In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Saudi Arabia have gone done by 2.63% from the previous month, reflecting minor moderation in export pricing amid steady supply. The Ethylene price trend in Saudi Arabia has been influenced by fixed Ethane feedstock costs, providing cost advantage to domestic producers. As a whole, export volumes have remained stable, with market sentiment cautious but firm in global markets.

South Korea

Ethylene Export Price from South Korea, >99% FOB Busan.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in South Korea has gone up moderately due to tighter supply from planned maintenance and robust regional demand. Buyers from China and Southeast Asia increased procurement, supporting price recovery. FOB Busan prices ranged between USD 770–810 per metric ton, mirroring a quarterly increase of 3.32%. In September 2025, Ethylene prices in South Korea have eased by 2.72% from the previous month, indicating a slight moderation in momentum amid consistent inventory levels.

The Ethylene price trend in South Korea has been influenced by limited feedstock volatility and stable Crude Oil prices. Korean producers leveraged strong export momentum to maintain firm pricing, while market sentiment stayed generally positive, supported by consistent regional demand across downstream Polyethylene and chemical sectors.

Turkey

Ethylene Import Price in Turkey from Saudi Arabia, >99% CIF Mersin (Saudi Arabia).

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in Turkey has showed slight softness, regardless of declining freight costs from the Middle East. Demand from downstream Polyethylene and textile sectors remained muted, limiting price recovery. CIF Mersin prices stayed between USD 820–880 per metric ton, reflecting a slight quarterly decline. In September 2025, Ethylene prices in Turkey have decreased by 1.99% from the previous month, reflecting cautious buying amid weak domestic consumption.

The Ethylene price trend in Turkey has been supported by consistent feedstock supply from Saudi Arabia and consistent import flows. Turkish converters kept conservative operating rates, aligning with subdued demand, while overall market sentiment remained cautious, with limited near-term upside expected in pricing.

United States

Ethylene Export Price from USA, >99% FOB Houston.

In Q3 2025, Ethylene price in USA has surged significantly due to strong domestic demand and supply constraints from planned cracker maintenance. Polyethylene producers increased operating rates, boosting offtake from Ethylene suppliers. FOB Houston prices ranged between USD 440–540 per metric ton, marking a substantial quarterly increase of 12.70%.

According to PriceWatch, In September 2025, Ethylene prices in USA have further risen by 14.22% from the previous month, highlighting tight supply conditions and continued bullish sentiment in the market. The Ethylene price trend in USA has been supported by rising Ethane feedstock costs and active spot market activity. Overall, market conditions remained highly favourable for sellers, with strong demand across downstream Polyethylene and industrial sectors sustaining price momentum.

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Ethylene prices in South Korea averaged USD 760.53 per metric ton at FOB Busan. This reflected a quarterly decline of -10.38% amid persistently weak demand and rising stock levels. In the United States, Ethylene prices averaged USD 434.33 per metric ton FOB Houston, posting a sharp fall of -29.58% from Q1.

The Ethylene price trend remained bearish across both Asia and North America, driven by poor downstream consumption and ample supply. In Northeast Asia, high cracker operating rates led to product oversupply, while downstream sectors such as polyethylene and MEG showed limited buying interest.

Competitive exports from the Middle East and Southeast Asia added further pressure to the regional Ethylene market. In the US, production remained steady, but weak domestic offtake and limited export traction created a supply overhang. Cost support from feedstocks like ethane and naphtha weakened as global crude oil values declined.

The Ethylene price chart showed a consistent downtrend across both markets, with no significant price corrections through the quarter. Storage availability in key ports remained sufficient, allowing producers to continue operations without major disruptions. Buyers remained cautious, and procurement activities were largely need-based.

Throughout Q2, the Ethylene market in both South Korea and the US saw increased seller competition, price undercutting, and minimal movement in contracted volumes. 

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

At the beginning of Q1 2025, the market underwent a slight improvement. Prices of Ethylene FOB Busan dropped to USD 848/MT, showing a –1.09% decrease from Q4. The drop was mainly due to slower restocking activity after the year-end surge and reduced buying from some export destinations.

Additionally, production remained stable across South Korean crackers, keeping the supply side well-covered. Despite the dip, the market remained healthy with consistent downstream activity and no major logistical disruptions. 

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the Ethylene market showed slight signs of recovery. Prices of Ethylene FOB Busan rose to USD 857.67/MT, registering a +1.97% increase. This gain was supported by stronger seasonal demand in the packaging industry ahead of the holidays.

Several buyers replenished stocks, and a few planned maintenance activities in Northeast Asia tightened spot availability. Moreover, slight increases in upstream crude oil and naphtha prices added to the cost pressure, leading to firmer pricing for Ethylene. 

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

Q3 2024 remained largely steady in terms of pricing. Prices of Ethylene FOB Busan averaged at USD 841.11/MT, a minor dip of –0.07% compared to Q2. The market remained mostly balanced, with both supply and demand moving in sync. While domestic demand for film-grade polyethylene remained steady, export volumes did not show significant growth. The lack of major turnarounds or supply disruptions meant that the market stayed calm and prices moved within a narrow range throughout the quarter. 

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, the market reversed its trend, and prices of Ethylene FOB Busan declined to USD 841.67/MT, a –5.72% drop from Q1 2024. The fall came because of weaker-than-expected buying interest from China and Southeast Asia, where downstream operations slowed down due to high inventory levels. On the supply side, most plants were operating steadily, which added to the regional availability and exerted downward pressure on prices. Additionally, a drop in naphtha costs, Ethylene’s main feedstock, further pushed prices down. 

Ethylene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, the Ethylene market in South Korea witnessed a modest improvement. Prices of Ethylene FOB Busan reached USD 892.78/MT, marking a +4.62% increase from the previous quarter. This upward movement was driven by stable demand from the packaging and plastics industries, especially polyethylene manufacturing. Many downstream sectors showed signs of revival after a quiet year-end in 2023. Additionally, unplanned maintenance at some regional crackers reduced availability in the market, which supported price gains during the quarter. 

India ethylene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Global ethylene Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Polyethylene (HDPE, LDPE)
  • Ethylene Oxide (antifreeze, detergents, and sterilizing agents)
  • polystyrene plastics
  • Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM)
  • Alpha-Olefins
  • Solvents & Other Chemicals
Major supplying countries
  •  South Korea
  • USA
  • Japan
  • Saudi Arabia
Major importing countries
  • China
  • Argentina
  • Qatar
  • Turkey
  • Netherlands
  • Germany
  • Belgium

India ethylene Supply Chain

Upstream
  •  Crude Oil
  •  Natural Gas
  •  Naphtha
Downstream
  • Polyethylene (HDPE, LDPE)
  • Ethylene Oxide (antifreeze, detergents, and sterilizing agents)
  • polystyrene plastics
  • Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM)
  • Alpha-Olefins
  • Solvents & Other Chemicals
Major supplying countries
  •  South Korea
  • USA
  • Japan
  • Saudi Arabia
Major importing countries
  • China
  • Argentina
  • Qatar
  • Turkey
  • Netherlands
  • Germany
  • Belgium

Technical Specifications of Ethylene Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

28.05 g/mol

CAS No

74-85-1

HS Code

290110

Molecular Formula

Câ‚‚Hâ‚„
ethylene

Ethylene is a colorless, flammable gas with a sweet odor, primarily used as a key industrial chemical building block. It is one of the most important raw materials in the production of a wide range of products, including polyethylene (PE), ethylene oxide (EO), ethylene glycol (EG), and styrene. Ethylene is primarily produced through the steam cracking of hydrocarbons, such as naphtha, and is often obtained as a byproduct of refining and natural gas processing. It plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of plastics, textiles, automotive components, and chemical products, making it essential to a variety of industries, including packaging, construction, and automotive.

Packaging Type

Tanker (Export-Import)

Ethylene Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (>99%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Tokyo, FOB Jeddah, FOB Busan, FOB Houston, CIF Buenos Aires, CIF Shanghai, CIF Hamad, CIF Mersin, FD Antwerp, FD Hamburg, FD Rotterdam.

Synonym

Ethene, Ethylene Gas

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 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.

Physical Properties 
Density  1.178 kg/m³ @ 0°C (Gas) 
Flash point   -135.5 °C (TCC ASTM D56) 
Boiling point   -103.7 °C @ 0 kg/cm²g 
Vapor pressure   780 kPa @ 20°C 
Appearance  Colorless gas or liquid (at low temperatures) 

Ethylene Industrial Applications

Ethylene is a fundamental building block in the petrochemical industry and is one of the most widely used organic compounds. It is primarily utilized in the production of polyethylene, the world’s most common plastic, used extensively in packaging, containers, films, and household goods. Ethylene also serves as a key intermediate in the manufacture of other important chemicals such as ethylene oxide, ethylene dichloride, and styrene. These derivatives are essential in producing antifreeze, solvents, detergents, and synthetic fibers. Additionally, ethylene plays a vital role in the agricultural sector as a plant hormone, where it regulates fruit ripening and growth. Its versatility makes ethylene indispensable across numerous industries including plastics, textiles, automotive, construction, and agriculture.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Ethylene prices

U.S.–China Trade Tariff Dispute (April 2025): 

In April 2025, the U.S. and China imposed steep tariffs up to 125% on a wide range of goods, including petrochemicals such as Ethylene and its derivatives. This disrupted global trade flows, increased costs for key downstream industries like plastics and packaging, and led to uncertainty in global supply chains. The result was price volatility, especially in Asia and North America. 

Russia-Ukraine War & Energy Crisis (2022–2023): 

The war in Ukraine triggered a major energy crisis in Europe, driving up natural gas and naphtha prices—both key feedstocks for Ethylene production. Many European crackers faced shutdowns or scaled-back operations due to high energy costs, tightening Ethylene supply across the region. This imbalance contributed to price spikes and redirected trade flows toward Asia and the U.S. 

Post-COVID Demand Surge (2021–2022): 

As global economies reopened after COVID-19 lockdowns, demand for consumer goods, construction materials, and packaging rebounded rapidly. Ethylene, a building block for polyethylene and other plastics, saw strong demand growth. However, supply was still recovering, especially in regions hit by earlier shutdowns, pushing prices higher across global markets. 

 

U.S. Gulf Coast Hurricane Disruptions (2020 & 2021): 

Multiple hurricanes—including Laura (2020) and Ida (2021)—hit the U.S. Gulf Coast, home to a large concentration of Ethylene crackers. These storms caused widespread plant shutdowns, port delays, and power outages, significantly reducing output. As a result, domestic Ethylene supply tightened, and prices surged both regionally and globally due to reduced exports. 

2020 Oil Price Crash & Cracker Cutbacks: 

In early 2020, oil prices collapsed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a brief price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia. The resulting economic slowdown led to reduced demand for plastics, causing many crackers—especially those using naphtha—to cut production. Ethylene prices initially fell but rebounded quickly as demand recovered later in the year, creating significant volatility. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's ethylene 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 gathers real-time pricing data from a wide range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures our assessments reflect the latest market conditions for Ethylene. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team collects insights directly from key market players, including Ethylene producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major production hubs. This local intelligence is vital to understanding the unique dynamics of specific Ethylene markets. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We monitor the entire Ethylene supply chain, from feedstock sourcing and production to transportation and distribution. This includes tracking crude oil and naphtha prices, production plant operations, storage levels, and shipping logistics to provide a comprehensive view of supply dynamics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch keeps a close eye on global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts, sanctions, and trade disputes, which can significantly impact Ethylene prices. For instance, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and its disruption to European gas markets have led to price volatility worldwide. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of weather-related events, such as hurricanes, typhoons, and extreme cold spells, on Ethylene production and export facilities. Events like hurricanes in the U.S. Gulf Coast or freezing conditions in key exporting nations can lead to short-term supply disruptions. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch analyses macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation, and sector-specific demand (e.g., power generation, industrial use). These factors are crucial in predicting Ethylene demand and resulting price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a detailed global database of Ethylene production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance activities, and output levels. This helps us assess the current supply of Ethylene at any given time. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes forecasts of future Ethylene production capacity, considering new liquefaction plants, expansions, and advancements in technology. This aids in predicting future supply trends and potential impacts on price stability. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch offers a deep dive into demand trends across key sectors, such as power generation, industrial applications, and residential heating. We monitor year-on-year demand growth and predict future consumption patterns based on market indicators. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our analysis looks at regional variations in demand and how they influence global Ethylene prices. This includes evaluating shifts in energy policies, changes in environmental regulations, and regional supply and demand imbalances. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch uses advanced econometric models to forecast Ethylene prices, integrating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are constantly updated to improve accuracy and reliability. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We run scenario-based analyses to examine possible future market conditions. This includes evaluating best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping clients prepare for various market developments. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Clients receive detailed reports featuring current Ethylene price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to provide actionable insights and clear recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized client support, ensuring you always have the latest information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available for discussions on specific market trends and to offer tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers accurate, timely, and actionable Ethylene pricing assessments, helping clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

28.05 g/mol

CAS No

74-85-1

HS Code

290110

Molecular Formula

Câ‚‚Hâ‚„
ethylene

Ethylene is a colorless, flammable gas with a sweet odor, primarily used as a key industrial chemical building block. It is one of the most important raw materials in the production of a wide range of products, including polyethylene (PE), ethylene oxide (EO), ethylene glycol (EG), and styrene. Ethylene is primarily produced through the steam cracking of hydrocarbons, such as naphtha, and is often obtained as a byproduct of refining and natural gas processing. It plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of plastics, textiles, automotive components, and chemical products, making it essential to a variety of industries, including packaging, construction, and automotive.

Packaging Type

Tanker (Export-Import)

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (>99%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Tokyo, FOB Jeddah, FOB Busan, FOB Houston, CIF Buenos Aires, CIF Shanghai, CIF Hamad, CIF Mersin, FD Antwerp, FD Hamburg, FD Rotterdam.

Synonym

Ethene, Ethylene Gas

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 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.

Physical Properties 
Density  1.178 kg/m³ @ 0°C (Gas) 
Flash point   -135.5 °C (TCC ASTM D56) 
Boiling point   -103.7 °C @ 0 kg/cm²g 
Vapor pressure   780 kPa @ 20°C 
Appearance  Colorless gas or liquid (at low temperatures) 

Applications

Ethylene is a fundamental building block in the petrochemical industry and is one of the most widely used organic compounds. It is primarily utilized in the production of polyethylene, the world’s most common plastic, used extensively in packaging, containers, films, and household goods. Ethylene also serves as a key intermediate in the manufacture of other important chemicals such as ethylene oxide, ethylene dichloride, and styrene. These derivatives are essential in producing antifreeze, solvents, detergents, and synthetic fibers. Additionally, ethylene plays a vital role in the agricultural sector as a plant hormone, where it regulates fruit ripening and growth. Its versatility makes ethylene indispensable across numerous industries including plastics, textiles, automotive, construction, and agriculture.

Ethylene 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 ethylene. 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 price of Ethylene is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of feedstocks such as crude oil, naphtha, and ethane, which vary by production region. Market dynamics such as supply-demand balance, plant operating rates, and unplanned shutdowns can significantly impact price fluctuations. Additionally, global economic trends, energy prices, geopolitical developments, trade regulations, and shipping costs play critical roles. Since Ethylene is a cornerstone chemical used in producing polyethylene and other derivatives, changes in downstream industries—such as packaging, automotive, and construction—also affect pricing trends.

Global supply and demand shifts are directly reflected in Ethylene pricing. Rising demand from the plastics, construction, and consumer goods sectors can push prices upward, especially during times of limited supply or high production costs. Conversely, periods of oversupply—due to new capacity additions or weakened demand—can result in lower prices. Factors like plant maintenance, outages, and inventory levels further contribute to volatility. To manage costs effectively, procurement professionals must monitor production forecasts, industry growth, and economic indicators that influence global consumption patterns.

Ethylene pricing varies significantly by region, driven by differences in feedstock economics, production methods, infrastructure, and local demand. For instance, North America often benefits from lower ethylene production costs due to abundant shale gas (ethane-based production), whereas regions like Asia may rely more on naphtha, making them more sensitive to crude oil price changes. Europe, with older infrastructure, may experience tighter margins and more frequent supply constraints. Procurement teams should evaluate regional cost structures, logistics considerations, and trade dynamics to optimize sourcing strategies, ensure supply continuity, and minimize exposure to regional pricing volatility.

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