Menu
Menu
United States
Thailand
China
India
Mexico
Taiwan
Indonesia
Canada
BrazilIn Q1 2025, Asian isopropyl alcohol prices in the 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, Isopropyl alcohol prices in the North American 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 isopropyl alcohol 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 Isopropyl alcohol prices across major Asian markets.
Similarly, the North American Isopropyl alcohol 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, Isopropyl alcohol prices in the Asia 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, Isopropyl alcohol prices showed a steady improvement in the market, 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 isopropyl alcohol 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 decline of -4.3% in Ex-India prices compared to Q4 2024, driven by weaker demand, oversupply, and cautious buying behavior. This downturn was exacerbated by a reduction in downstream activity from key sectors like pharmaceuticals and personal care, which impacted overall consumption. Export activity remained subdued, particularly from China, with limited fresh inquiries from regional markets.
However, despite the overall market weakness, CIF India prices saw a slight increase of 2.1% during the same period. This uptick was largely attributed to a recovery in import activity as Indian buyers ramped up procurement in response to tightening local supply and higher production costs. While global price pressure remained, India’s import demand supported this modest price rise, though the overall sentiment remained cautious.
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 isopropyl alcohol 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 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.
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.
Track PriceWatch's isopropyl alcohol 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.
These events underscore the Isopropyl Alcohol market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
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 IPA can fluctuate based on several factors tied to global market trends. A key influence is the supply and demand dynamics within the chemical and manufacturing sectors. When demand spikes—such as during a global health crisis or peak industrial season—prices tend to rise. Additionally, the cost of raw materials, particularly propylene, directly affects IPA production costs. Disruptions in production due to supply chain issues, geopolitical tensions, or natural disasters can also lead to significant price increases. In a market that’s highly sensitive to these variables, procurement heads need to monitor not only industry reports but also news related to raw material sourcing, shipping delays, and shifts in regulatory landscapes that could impact pricing.
When negotiating IPA prices with suppliers, it’s important to consider a mix of both qualitative and quantitative factors. Beyond the base cost of the commodity itself, procurement heads should evaluate factors like supplier reliability, delivery lead times, payment terms, and flexibility in meeting fluctuating demand. Understanding the full value chain—such as whether the supplier has access to sustainable or cost-effective raw materials, or if they face logistical challenges—can give you more leverage in negotiations. Additionally, considering the total cost of ownership (TCO) can be more insightful than simply focusing on price alone. That means factoring in things like transportation costs, quality assurance, and after-sales service, all of which can add or reduce long-term value.
Predicting IPA price trends for the next quarter involves a combination of industry analysis, historical data, and close monitoring of external market factors. Procurement heads should stay informed by reviewing reports from industry groups, suppliers, and financial analysts who specialize in chemical commodities. Additionally, tracking key indicators such as changes in crude oil prices, fluctuations in the production of propylene, and any disruptions in global supply chains is essential. Long-term trends in the global economy—such as shifts toward green chemistry or technological advancements in manufacturing—can also play a role. Finally, maintaining open communication with key suppliers and staying updated on their forecasts can give you a clearer view of future pricing and help you anticipate changes ahead of time.
Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Nidhyana Price Watch Data Analytics Private Limited