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Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (fae) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12161903
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

fatty alcohol ethoxylates (fae) Price Trends by Country

inIndia
cnChina
auAustralia
krSouth Korea

Global fatty alcohol ethoxylates (fae) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) price assessment:

  • C10 based Surfactant Grade(99% min) FOB Shanghai, China
  • C10 based Surfactant Grade(99% min) CIF Nhava Sheva (China), India
  • C10 based Surfactant Grade(99% min) CIF Busan (China), South Korea
  • C10 based Surfactant Grade(99% min) CIF Sydney (China), Australia

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) market exhibited moderate stability with regional variations. The price trend for FAE varied by 0-2% during the July-September 2025 quarter, influenced by stable feedstock costs, energy prices, and regional supply chain dynamics. Though there were some fluctuations in upstream factors, steady demand from industries like personal care, cleaning, and textiles helped maintain price stability. Ongoing expansions in production capacity and adjustments in supply chains are expected to contribute to stable prices in the upcoming quarter.

China

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) Export price from China, C10 based (purity 80%) Grade.

In the third quarter of 2025, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price in China is experiencing a modest increase. Seasonal demand recovery, particularly in sectors like detergents and personal care, is driving higher consumption, specifically in the second half of the quarter. This surge in demand is absorbing some of the oversupply from the previous quarter, contributing to the price uptick. Freight movement is better, although global shipping costs remain higher than average.

Chinese exporters are balancing production to prevent excess inventory buildup, and feedstock costs, particularly for Ethylene, remain stable. Geopolitical uncertainties concerning trade relations could introduce volatility, but seasonal demand from Asia and the Middle East is supporting moderate growth. Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price trend in China reflects a modest increase of 0.93% in Q3 2025.

India

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) import price in India from China, C10 based (purity 80%) Grade.

According to Price-Watch, In India, the Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price is also seeing a moderate increase in the third quarter of 2025. Post-summer demand from personal care and textiles is driving consumption as production goes up for the end-of-year season. Chinese producers are changing their output to meet rising demand, helping to balance the oversupply situation. Freight rates are improving slightly, with reduced congestion, even though global shipping costs continue to influence import costs.

Geopolitical uncertainties remain, but they have less impact on demand in India. Feedstock prices, particularly for Ethylene, are slowly increasing, exerting upward pressure on production costs. The Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price trend in India is displaying a 1.77% increase in Q3 2025.

South Korea

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) import price in South Korea from China, C10 based (purity 80%) Grade.

In South Korea, the Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price is stabilizing with a small increase in the third quarter of 2025. Seasonal demand recovery in personal care, detergent, and textile sectors is helping to absorb oversupply, resulting in a moderate price uptick. Freight conditions are improving slightly, even though global supply chain uncertainties continue to impact shipping costs.

Chinese producers are adjusting their output to align with seasonal demand. Feedstock costs, especially fatty alcohol and Ethylene, remain stable, with minor fluctuations tied to global oil prices. Geopolitical and economic factors, such as trade relations with China, may influence the market, but the overall trend is positive. The Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price trend in South Korea is reflecting a 0.97% increase in Q3 2025.

Australia

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) import price in Australia from China, C10 based (purity 80%) Grade.

In Australia, Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price is recovering slightly in the third quarter of 2025. A seasonal increase in demand from personal care, detergent, and textile sectors is boosting consumption and helping to absorb oversupply. But Chinese producers may continue to face inventory management issues, potentially stabilizing prices rather than seeing a significant increase. Freight rates are easing marginally as the peak shipping season ends, but global shipping costs remain elevated due to supply chain issues.

Feedstock costs for Ethylene are stable, though moderate production cost growth is expected due to slight increases in global oil prices. Geopolitical uncertainties, particularly regarding trade relations between China and major markets, are affecting export conditions, but overall, the market is experiencing a slight price uptick. The Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylate price trend in Australia is showing a 0.47% increase in Q3 2025.

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAE) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

Looking ahead to the fourth quarter of 2024 and beyond, there will have been cautious optimism for a recovery in Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAEs) production as logistical issues are resolved and market conditions stabilize. However, the market will have been expected to remain volatile through 2030, influenced by factors such as raw material availability, regulatory changes, and the growing consumer demand for sustainable, bio-based, and eco-friendly products. 

By the third quarter of 2024, according to PriceWatch, fatty alcohol ethoxylates prices have remained stable at USD 1,600 to USD 1,700 per metric ton, supported by steady demand from the personal care and biofuel sectors. The demand for bio-based FAEs has stayed strong, with manufacturers increasingly using renewable feedstocks like palm and coconut oil to meet sustainability requirements. 

As we had moved into Q2 2024, the FAE market had shown signs of stabilization as production issues had eased and demand had remained strong. Consumption had increased by 4% by May 2024, reflecting continued growth, particularly in the bio-based FAE segment, driven by strong demand from the personal care, cleaning, and agrochemical sectors.

Although challenges like raw material price volatility and logistical disruptions had persisted, the overall market demand had remained stable, and production had gradually improved, easing some of the pressures on supply. 

In the first quarter of 2024, prices for Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (FAEs) had ranged between USD 1,600 to USD 1,700 per metric ton, driven by strong demand from industries such as personal care, cleaning, and agrochemicals. The demand for bio-based FAEs had continued to grow, fueled by a rising consumer preference for eco-friendly and sustainable products.

However, the market had faced challenges with raw material cost volatility, particularly for fatty alcohols, which had seen prices fluctuating due to agricultural commodity price shifts. Despite these challenges, supply chains had largely recovered from earlier disruptions, allowing manufacturers to meet demand. 

Technical Specifications of Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (fae) Price Trends

Product Description

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates are non-ionic surfactants produced by reacting fatty alcohols with ethylene oxide. These versatile compounds are widely used in household and industrial cleaners, personal care formulations, and agricultural products due to their emulsifying, wetting, and solubilizing properties. They are known for their mildness, effectiveness in various pH ranges, and biodegradability.

Leading manufacturers include BASF, Clariant, and Evonik, with major production hubs in the United States, Germany, and China. The rising global demand for eco-friendly and high-performance surfactants is driving the growth of fatty alcohol ethoxylates, particularly in sustainable cleaning and personal care products, as consumers increasingly prefer formulations that are gentle on both the skin and the environment.

Identifiers and Classification:

  1. CAS No – 68439-46-3
  2. HS Code – 34029099
  3. Molecular Formula – C5H10O2
  4. Molecular Weight[g/mol] – 296.5


FAE Synonyms:

  • Lauryl alcohol


FAE Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • C10 based (purity 80%) Grade Price Trend


FAE Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms: 25-28 MT
  • Packaging Type: 200 kg Drums


Incoterms Referenced in FAE Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  FAE Export price from China 
CIF Nhava Sheva (China)  Nhava Sheva, India  FAE import price in India from China 
CIF Busan (China)  Busan, South Korea  FAE import price in South Korea from China 
CIF Sydney (China)  Sydney, Australia  FAE import price in Australia from China 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the FAE being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for FAE packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.


FAE Manufacturers and their brands

Brand Name  Manufacturer 
Surfant O100,  Jiahua Chemicals Inc. 
Pergeol  Borsod Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. 
AEO-3, AEO-7, AEO-9  Henan Jinhe Industry Co., Ltd. 
  Shaoxing Zhenggang Chemical Co., Ltd. 

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (fae) Industrial Applications

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (fae) prices

  • Supply Chain Disruptions
    Natural disasters, like hurricanes and floods, often disrupt production facilities and logistics. These events cause increased demand as buyers scramble to secure limited supplies, leading to price spikes due to supply shortages. 
  • Raw Material Availability
    The availability of raw materials, such as palm oil and coconut oil, can impact FAE production. When supply is restricted due to factors like crop failures or regulatory changes, demand rises for the limited available materials, driving prices up. In contrast, when raw materials are abundant, demand stabilizes, and prices may ease. 
  • Market Demand Shifts
    Demand from sectors like personal care, biofuels, and cleaning products directly affects FAE prices. The growing preference for sustainable, bio-based ingredients has led to increased demand, pushing prices higher. However, if these sectors contract or shift to alternative ingredients, demand decreases, leading to price reductions. 
  • Global Economic Conditions
    Economic growth or downturns play a crucial role in FAE demand. During periods of growth, industries like automotive and construction require more FAEs, leading to increased demand and higher prices. Conversely, during economic slowdowns, demand declines, causing price reductions as supply outpaced demand. 
  • Regulatory Changes
    Stricter environmental regulations have driven a shift toward bio-based alternatives, increasing demand for FAEs in personal care, cleaning, and agrochemical products. However, if regulations raise production costs, demand may decrease as manufacturers seek more cost-effective alternatives. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's fatty alcohol ethoxylates (fae) 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: Price-Watch 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 fatty alcohol ethoxylates production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire fatty alcohol ethoxylates supply chain, from raw material availability  to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions:
    We monitor global geopolitical events, such as conflicts and trade disputes, that can disrupt raw material supply chains (e.g., palm oil, coconut oil). These disruptions can lead to price volatility and supply shortages, affecting FAE prices. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events:
    Natural disasters, like hurricanes and floods, impact key production regions, particularly in Southeast Asia and the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events can cause production halts and transportation delays, leading to short-term price hikes and supply disruptions. 
  • Economic Shifts:
    We track global economic trends, including growth, inflation, and demand from sectors like personal care, biofuels, and cleaning products, which drive FAE consumption. Changes in these factors can lead to demand fluctuations and price movements in the market. 

 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global fatty alcohol ethoxylates 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 fatty alcohol ethoxylates 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: Price-Watch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. 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 fatty alcohol ethoxylates pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: Price-Watch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast fatty alcohol ethoxylates 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: Price-Watch 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 Price-Watch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable fatty alcohol ethoxylates pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Fatty Alcohol Ethoxylates (fae) 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 fatty alcohol ethoxylates (fae). 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 plays a crucial role in the cost of fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs) since ethylene oxide is a key raw material used in their production. As ethylene is derived from petroleum and natural gas, its price fluctuations are closely tied to global oil and gas market trends. When the price of ethylene rises, the cost of ethoxylation (a key step in FAE production) also increases, which leads to higher FAE prices. Procurement heads need to monitor ethylene price trends to predict cost increases and adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.

Procurement heads should consider several key factors when forecasting the price of fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs). These include the cost of ethylene, which is affected by global oil prices and natural gas availability; the price of raw materials like fatty alcohols (from palm, coconut oil, or petroleum); geopolitical events affecting the oil and gas markets; demand trends in end-use industries (such as detergents, personal care, and agriculture); and environmental regulations impacting sourcing and production. By understanding these drivers, procurement teams can make informed decisions and hedge against price volatility.

To manage the impact of ethylene price volatility on fatty alcohol ethoxylates (FAEs) procurement, companies can employ several strategies. These include long-term supply contracts with fixed pricing or price caps to lock in rates, diversifying raw material sources to reduce reliance on a single supplier, and using financial hedging tools to protect against price fluctuations. Additionally, staying informed about global ethylene market trends and collaborating with suppliers for insights into future price movements can help procurement heads anticipate cost changes and plan accordingly.

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