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United StatesIn Q1-2025, Isobutyl Benzene prices in China were reported at USD 2,082/MT, reflecting a decrease of -6.10% from Q4-2024. The decline was driven by the continued abundant supply in the market, as producers in China and other regions maintained high production levels despite weak demand. Economic uncertainties globally continued to dampen consumer confidence, particularly in industries heavily reliant on Isobutyl Benzene. The lower-than-expected demand from both domestic and international markets led to this price reduction, as companies sought to adjust their inventories and manage costs more effectively in a challenging economic environment.
In Q4-2024, Isobutyl Benzene prices saw a more significant decline, dropping to USD 2,217/MT, marking a decrease of -10.49% from Q3-2024. This sharp drop can be explained by the further slowdown in industrial activity across key sectors like petrochemicals and automotive, as companies reduced their production output amid continued economic caution. The year-end also traditionally brings a slowdown in manufacturing activity due to holiday season preparations and reduced demand in certain markets. Additionally, the abundant supply of raw materials, such as benzene and isobutylene, led to a more competitive market, contributing to price reductions during this quarter.
However, in Q3-2024, prices for Isobutyl Benzene fell to USD 2,477/MT, reflecting a slight decrease of -4.28% from Q2-2024. This decline can be attributed to sluggish demand from key industries, as many global markets were still grappling with the effects of economic uncertainties. Particularly, automotive and construction sectors, which are major consumers of Isobutyl Benzene, saw slower growth. Additionally, the increase in raw material supply and competitive pricing from other global suppliers contributed to the downward price pressure. As a result, the Isobutyl Benzene market was unable to sustain the gains made in Q2, with reduced demand leading to this decrease.
In Q2-2024, Isobutyl Benzene prices rose further to USD 2,588/MT, marking an increase of 1.60% compared to Q1-2024. This increase was largely driven by a recovery in industrial activity, particularly in sectors such as coatings, plastics, and adhesives, which experienced increased demand as supply chains began to stabilize after Q1. Additionally, restocking efforts contributed to higher purchases, and there was a brief period of optimism in global Isobutyl Benzene markets as industries began ramping up operations. The rise in prices during this period can also be attributed to seasonal factors, where the chemical industry typically experiences a demand bump before entering the summer months.
In Q1-2024, Isobutyl Benzene prices in China were reported at USD 2,547/MT, reflecting a modest increase of 0.31% from the previous quarter, Q4-2023. This slight increase can be attributed to the stabilization of demand following the typically slower holiday season in many global Isobutyl Benzene markets. Despite the lower activity levels in the initial months of the year, there was a slight uptick in production as companies started to adjust their inventories post-holiday. Additionally, the demand from key sectors such as automotive and coatings saw moderate recovery, which supported price levels, albeit at a slower rate compared to prior periods.
Entering Q1 2025, the Indian Isobutyl Benzene market continued its downward trend, with prices stabilizing at $2,028.42/MT, reflecting a decrease of 6.73% from Q4 2024. This decline was primarily due to a demand drought during the initial part of the year, where purchasers focused on using up existing inventory instead of making aggressive new purchases. Additionally, freight rates eased slightly, and port activities normalized, contributing to a higher availability of material. However, the market was cautious, with stakeholders adopting a wait-and-watch approach amid price volatility in upstream Benzene and uncertainty surrounding international trade flows.
In Q4 2024, the Indian Isobutyl Benzene market saw a significant correction, with prices averaging around $2,174.80/MT, a 10.73% decline from Q3 2024. The price drop was mainly due to oversold conditions in the local market and lower bulk buying by top pharma players after the demand surge from the festive season. The year-end period traditionally sees a slowdown in industrial activity, further contributing to this price decrease. Additionally, global suppliers increased their supply to Asia due to muted demand in western markets, making imported materials more competitively priced for Indian buyers.
In Q3 2024, Isobutyl Benzene prices fell by 4.67%, averaging approximately $2,436.17/MT. This decline was driven by low production during the monsoon season, with several downstream units operating at partial capacities. Additionally, formulation exports dropped temporarily as international buyers expected price adjustments. The market also saw a surplus supply, with better ship availability and reduced domestic off-take, leading sellers to offer more competitive prices. Despite this, the market remained relatively balanced, supported by consistent demand from key pharmaceutical manufacturers.
During Q2 2024, Isobutyl Benzene prices increased modestly by 1.59%, reaching around $2,555.28/MT. This rise was driven by stronger demand from the fine chemicals and pharmaceutical industries, particularly for Ibuprofen formulates in preparation for seasonal exports. Fluctuations in international Benzene prices and rising freight rates led to a moderate tightening of supply. Additionally, the pre-monsoon surge in pharma manufacturing, combined with minor logistic congestion at Indian ports, provided further price support, making the market more resilient.
In Q1 2024, the Indian Isobutyl Benzene market experienced a generally stable trend, with prices averaging around $2,515.38/MT, reflecting a slight decrease of 0.02% compared to Q4 2023. This mild price fall was primarily due to defensive buying by downstream consumers and short-term relief in raw material prices. Demand remained steady from pharma producers, especially for Ibuprofen manufacturing. However, inventory levels were adequately carried over from the last festive quarter, limiting aggressive procurement. Additionally, international supplier freight movements remained uneventful, helping to keep cost pressures on imported materials in check.
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These events highlight how Isobutyl Benzene pricing is heavily influenced by both global geopolitical events and the supply-demand dynamics of its key raw materials. Continuous monitoring is essential for navigating these fluctuations.
This methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Isobutyl Benzene pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions.
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Isobutyl Benzene (IBB) is an organic chemical compound primarily used as an intermediate in the production of Ibuprofen, a widely used non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a colourless to pale yellow liquid with a characteristic aromatic Odor. Isobutyl Benzene is an essential raw material in the pharmaceutical industry due to its role in the synthesis of Ibuprofen.
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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.
| Properties | Specification |
| Vapour Pressure | 4.2 mmHg (37.7 °C) |
| Assay | 99% |
| Autoignition Temp. | 802 °F |
| Refractive index | n20/D 1.486 (lit.) |
| Boiling Point (bp) | 170 °C/736 mmHg (lit.) |
| Melting Point (mp) | −51 °C (lit.) |
| Density | 0.853 g/mL at 25 °C (lit.) |
Applications
Handling and Safety: Isobutyl Benzene is classified as hazardous, and proper safety measures should be taken during handling. It is flammable and should be stored away from heat sources, with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) worn when handling the substance to avoid inhalation or skin contact.
Isobutyl Benzene’s role as a key raw material in Ibuprofen production makes it a critical chemical in the global pharmaceutical industry.
Isobutyl Benzene prices are influenced by several key factors, including fluctuations in the prices of raw materials like benzene and propylene, which are essential for its production. Additionally, global supply chain disruptions, environmental regulations, and demand from key sectors such as pharmaceuticals (specifically for Ibuprofen production) can cause price volatility. Market trends in regions with high production capacities and shifts in oil prices also play a significant role in determining Isobutyl Benzene pricing.
To forecast Isobutyl Benzene price changes, procurement heads should monitor key market indicators such as benzene and propylene price trends, changes in production capacities, and economic factors that influence pharmaceutical demand. Keeping an eye on geopolitical events, trade policies, and transportation costs will also provide insights into potential price movements. Engaging with platforms like PriceWatch, which offers real-time data and market forecasts, can help procurement professionals stay ahead of fluctuations.
Procurement heads can manage price risks by diversifying suppliers and negotiating long-term contracts to secure stable prices. Keeping informed about market trends, regional supply-demand balances, and regulatory changes can also help in anticipating potential price shifts. Utilizing real-time pricing assessments, such as those offered by PriceWatch, enables procurement teams to make data-driven decisions and mitigate the impact of sudden price hikes or shortages.
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