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Linear Alpha Olefins (lao) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 73101500
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

linear alpha olefins (lao) Price Trends by Country

usUnited States
saSaudi Arabia
inIndia
mxMexico
trTurkey
arArgentina
qaQatar

Global linear alpha olefins (lao) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) price assessment:

  • Linearalphaolefin (LAO-Tetradecene) FOB Houston, USA
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-C14-18) FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-Tetradecene) CIF Manzanillo_USA, Mexico
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-Tetradecene) CIF Mersin_USA, Turkey
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-Tetradecene) CIF Buenos Aires_USA, Argentina
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-C14-18) CIF Nhava Sheva_Saudi Arabia, India
  • Linearalphaolefin (LAO-Tetradecene) FOB Mesaieed, Qatar
  • Linearalphaolefin(LAO-C20-24) FOB Mesaieed, Qatar

Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Price Trend Q3 2025

Global Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO) markets in Q3 2025 showed mixed trends. The USA, Mexico, Turkey, and Argentina reported stable to mildly rising prices supported by steady demand and balanced supply. Conversely, Saudi Arabia and India saw declines due to ample inventories and weaker downstream activity. September ended with cautious stability, suggesting moderate recovery potential into Q4 2025.

United States

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) Export Prices FOB Houston, USA.

In Q3 2025, Linear alpha olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) prices in the USA displayed stable sentiment amid moderate industrial consumption. LAO price trend in the USA was shaped by balanced supply, steady ethylene feedstock availability, and domestic manufacturing resilience. Product prices in Q3 remained influenced by downstream polymer sector performance, notably in polyethylene and lubricant applications. Demand from detergents and performance chemicals provided partial price support through the quarter.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 increased by a minor percentage. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in the USA reflects a cautiously optimistic tone supported by consistent export flows. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 remained steady with marginal upward adjustments, indicating a balanced production environment.

Saudi Arabia

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO C14–18) Export Prices FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO C14–18) prices in Saudi Arabia recorded a significant decline due to weaker regional demand. LAO price trend in Saudi Arabia was hampered by oversupply from Middle Eastern producers and limited export momentum. Product prices in Q3 were pressured by sluggish construction and detergent industries across major Gulf markets.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 declined notably by a mid single-digit percentage. The trend reflected intensified competition in regional long-chain alpha olefins markets. Efforts to diversify export destinations also added short-term volatility.

Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 continued to reflect softening margins across production hubs. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in Saudi Arabia suggests possible stabilization if overseas demand improves next quarter.

Mexico

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) Import Prices CIF Manzanillo, USA Origin.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) prices in Mexico remained stable amid healthy packaging and chemical intermediate demand. LAO price trend in Mexico was primarily supported by consistent imports from the USA and steady downstream utilization rates. Product prices in Q3 indicated mild positive sentiment backed by balanced inventories and steady consumption.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 rose modestly by a fractional percentage. Supply continuity from the USA and stable freight costs supported pricing equilibrium during the quarter. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 showed minor gains linked to seasonal downstream restocking. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in Mexico indicates that market participants maintained cautious optimism amid balanced trade conditions.

Turkey

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) Import Prices CIF Mersin, USA Origin.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) prices in Turkey saw slight improvement amid moderate demand recovery in plasticizers and wax additives. LAO price trend in Turkey remained supported by continuous USA supply and stabilizing logistics across the Mediterranean trade corridor. Product prices in Q3 exhibited minimal upward adjustments as industrial production improved post-summer.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 increased by a minor percentage reflecting cautious optimism. Feedstock stability from upstream ethylene supply and improved port operations sustained predictable price movement. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 edged higher owing to localized consumer demand. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in Turkey highlights a stable to slightly bullish sentiment going into Q4 2025.

Argentina

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) Import Prices CIF Buenos Aires, USA Origin.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) prices in Argentina marked mild improvement following steady domestic consumption across the polymer and lubricants sector. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in Argentina was guided by consistent import volumes and easing logistics from the USA. Product prices in Q3 maintained upward direction amid controlled inflationary pressures and steady commercial activity.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 increased slightly by a modest percentage. Market pricing benefited from balanced supply-demand dynamics and supportive exchange rates. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 reflected marginal gains aligned with stable operating conditions. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in Argentina indicates continued resilience across industrial applications heading into the next quarter.

India

Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO C14–18) Import Prices CIF Nhava Sheva, Saudi Arabia Origin.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO C14–18) prices in India dropped considerably amid weaker downstream detergent and surfactant demand. LAO price trend in India reflected subdued imports as consumption slowed in the personal care manufacturing sector. Product prices in Q3 showed a downward trajectory due to abundant Saudi-origin supply and restrained regional buying activity.

According to the PriceWatch, product prices in Q3 decreased sharply by a high single-digit percentage. Currency fluctuations and lower freight costs also contributed to pricing weakness during the quarter. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) prices in September 2025 stayed under pressure influenced by soft domestic utilization rates. Linear alpha olefin (LAO) price trend in India suggests a cautious outlook with expectations of gradual stabilization through Q4 2025.

Qatar

Linear Alpha Olefin prices FOB Mesaieed, Qatar.

In Q3 2025, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO C20-24) prices in Qatar showed moderate growth. Product prices in Q3 indicated a positive product price trend amid stable regional supply-demand conditions. According to the PriceWatch, LAO-C20-24 prices in Qatar increased by a low single-digit percentage in September 2025. Conversely, product prices for LAO-Tetradecene showed a slight decline during the same period.

The product price trend for LAO-Tetradecene in Qatar was mildly bearish in Q3 2025. The differences in price trends reflect varying feedstock availability and specific product demand dynamics in the region. Overall, LAO product prices in Qatar remained relatively stable, supporting steady export activities from the Mesaieed port. Stable economic conditions and ongoing industrial demand helped maintain these trends through the quarter.

Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-Tetradecene) prices on an FOB Houston basis in the USA averaged USD 1207 per metric ton in Q2 2025, reflecting an 11.35% increase from Q1 2025. Prices for LAO-C14-18 on an FOB Jeddah basis in Saudi Arabia averaged USD 844 per metric ton, showing a 2.68% rise compared to the previous quarter. The global price trend for Linear Alpha Olefin indicated strong upward momentum, driven by robust demand from the plastics and surfactant industries.

The Q2 2025 price trend highlighted tightening supply and higher feedstock costs, contributing to the bullish market sentiment. The price trend for both the US and Saudi Arabia showed a clear upward trajectory, with limited price corrections during the quarter.

The global Linear Alpha Olefin market experienced healthy trading activity, with sellers leveraging disciplined inventory management to maximize margins. Exporters in both the USA and Saudi Arabia focused on optimizing logistics and adapting to changing market requirements. 

According to PriceWatch, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO-C14-18) prices on a CIF Nhava Sheva, India basis averaged USD 909 per metric ton in Q2 2025, marking a 1.91% increase from Q1 2025. This price trend in India reflected steady import demand and moderate supply constraints from key exporting regions.

The Q2 2025 price trend for India tracked the global market closely, with the price trend displaying a gradual upward slope throughout the quarter. Ex-India, the Linear Alpha Olefin market remained competitive, as buyers sought to secure volumes amid rising international prices.

Market participants in India monitored global price movements and adjusted procurement strategies to optimize costs. The Indian Linear Alpha Olefin market benefited from consistent downstream demand in the detergent and lubricant sectors, supporting stable price levels and healthy trading volumes. 

In Q1 2025, prices softened to $1,084/ton, a 1.28% decrease from Q4. The slight dip reflected normalized supply levels and cautious procurement from downstream buyers amid expectations of stable near-term market conditions. Saudi Arabian prices Increased to $822/ton, rising 5.52% from Q4.

The increase was supported by restocking activities and a slight uptick in regional and export demand, hinting at a possible shift toward market recovery.  These Price Changes Impacted countries like India, Mexico, Argentina and Turkey. 

Indian Prices increased to $892/ton in Q1 2025, with a 5.06% change. The recovery was driven by restocking activities and improved demand from the packaging and chemical sectors, suggesting early signs of market stabilization. 

Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, Prices surged to $1,098/ton in Q4 2024, marking an 8.50% increase. The rise was driven by robust seasonal demand and tight supply conditions, particularly in the Gulf Coast region, pushing prices to a yearly high. Saudi Prices dropped to $779/ton in Q4 2024, marking a 2.75% decline.

Ongoing global oversupply and moderate demand from polymer industries contributed to continued pricing softness across the region. These Price Changes Impacted countries like India, Mexico, Argentina and Turkey. 

Indian LAO prices declined to $849/ton in Q4 2024, down 3.08% from Q3. Although downstream industries maintained stable operations, competitive pricing from international suppliers weighed on the Indian market. 

In Q3 2024, American LAO prices dipped slightly to $1,012/ton, down just 0.20% from the previous quarter. The market remained mostly balanced as consistent consumption from industrial users helped stabilize the price movement. Saudi Arabian LAO prices slipped to $801/ton in Q3 2024, a 4.64% decrease.

Although local demand remained consistent, increased inventories and limited export recovery kept prices on a downward path. These Price Changes Impacted countries like India, Mexico, Argentina and Turkey. 

In Q3 2024, prices edged down to $876/ton, a modest 1.68% drop. The market remained largely balanced, with domestic demand holding steady but with limited support from international trade. 

In Q2 2024, American LAO Prices dropped to $1,014/ton in Q2 2024, a 4.43% decline from Q1. Despite steady downstream demand, improved supply availability and easing feedstock costs drove the price correction across domestic markets. Saudi Arabian LAO Prices declined further to $840/ton in Q2 2024, down 8.40% from Q1.

Ample supply and competitive regional pricing continued to pressure the market, while downstream industries operated with stable but cautious demand. These Price Changes Impacted countries like India, Mexico, Argentina and Turkey. 

Prices fell further to $891/ton in Q2 2024, a 7.48% decrease from the previous quarter. Weak global market sentiment and high inventory levels pressured domestic pricing despite consistent performance in end-use industries. 

In Q1 2024, Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO) prices in the USA averaged $1,061/ton with a rise of 4.33%. The increase was supported by firm demand from polyethylene and surfactant sectors, along with tighter supply due to scheduled plant maintenance. Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO) prices in Saudi Arabia fell to $917/ton, an 8.67% decline from $1,004/ton in Q4 2023.

The drop was attributed to subdued export demand and lower feedstock costs, despite steady domestic consumption levels. These Price Changes Impacted countries like India, Mexico, Argentina and Turkey. 

In Q1 2024 Linear Alpha Olefin (LAO) prices in India was $963/ton with a change of 5.77%.  The decline was driven by reduced import prices and a steady supply environment, while downstream demand from the plastics and detergent sectors remained stable. 

Technical Specifications of Linear Alpha Olefins (lao) Price Trends

Product Description

Linear Alpha Olefins (LAOs) are straight-chain hydrocarbons with a double bond at the alpha position, used as versatile intermediates in various industries. They play key roles in producing synthetic lubricants, surfactants, polyethylene co-monomers, drilling fluids, and specialty chemicals.

LAOs have high purity, defined structure, and low branching, making them essential for performance materials and eco-friendly applications. They come in various carbon chain lengths and grades tailored for diverse industrial needs.​

Identifiers and Classification:

CAS No – 1120-36-1

HS Code – 29012940

Molecular Formula – CnHn

Molecular Weight (in gm/mol) – 196.42

Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Synonyms:

  • Normal Alpha Olefins (NAO)
  • Alpha Olefins
  • straight-chain terminal alkenes


Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Tetradecene – C14
  • C14- 18


Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-28 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): ISO Tanks


Incoterms Referenced in LAO Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Houston   Houston, USA  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Export price from USA 
FOB Jeddah  Jeddah, Saudi Arabia  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Export price from Saudi Arabia 
CIF Manzanillo (USA)  Manzanillo, Mexico  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) import price in Mexico from USA 
CIF Mersin (USA)  Mersin, Turkey  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) import price in Turkey from USA 
CIF Buenos Aires (USA)  Buenos Aires, Argentina  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) import price in Argentina from USA 
CIF Nhava Sheva (Saudi Arabia)  Nhava Sheva, India  Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) import price in India from Saudi Arabia 

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

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

Key Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) Manufacturers and their brands

Brand Name  Manufacturer 
SABIC LAO  SABIC 
Linear Alpha Olefins  INEOS 
Alpha plus  Qatar Chemical Company 
Alpha Plus  Chevron Phillips 
ELEVEXX  Exxon Mobil 

Linear Alpha Olefins (lao) Industrial Applications

LAO market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Linear Alpha Olefins (lao) prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The ongoing conflict has led to significant disruptions in global supply chains, particularly in Europe. As LAO production is closely linked to ethylene, which is derived from natural gas and crude oil, the war has escalated energy prices and contributed to increased volatility in LAO prices across multiple regions.
  • Environmental Regulations and Sustainability Efforts (2019-Present): Increasingly stringent environmental regulations in key production regions like Europe and Asia have placed additional costs on LAO production. This includes compliance with sustainability standards and carbon footprint reduction efforts, which have led to price increases for LAOs due to more expensive manufacturing processes.
  • Middle East Supply Chain Disruptions (2019-Present): The Middle East is a significant producer of ethylene, and any disruptions—whether due to political instability or natural disasters—affect the entire LAO production chain. These disruptions, such as those caused by regional conflicts, have led to periodic price spikes for LAOs, particularly in Europe and Asia.
  • USA Accidents and Conflicts (2018-Present): Accidents, such as chemical plant explosions and refinery outages in the U.S., have directly impacted LAO production. Notably, incidents like the 2020 fire at the Philadelphia Energy Solutions refinery caused temporary production halts, leading to supply shortages and price fluctuations. Additionally, domestic conflicts related to energy policy and environmental concerns have added further volatility to U.S. petrochemical production, contributing to higher LAO prices.
  • Global Energy Price Volatility (2021-2022): Fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices had a direct impact on the production costs of ethylene, a key feedstock for LAO. These fluctuations triggered price adjustments in the LAO market, especially in major producing regions like North America and the Middle East.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): The pandemic initially caused a drop in demand for petrochemical products, including LAO, due to lockdowns and reduced industrial activities. However, as global economies reopened, demand surged, particularly in sectors such as automotive, detergents, and plastics, leading to a significant rebound in LAO prices.
  • Geopolitical Tensions and Trade Wars (2018-2019): Trade disputes, especially between the U.S. and China, created uncertainty in global markets and impacted the petrochemical sector. Tariffs and trade restrictions on ethylene and related products contributed to price volatility in LAOs, especially in markets relying heavily on trade routes for supply.

 

These events highlight the LAO market’s sensitivity to global disruptions, with geopolitical issues, energy price volatility, and industrial accidents being major influencers. Continuous monitoring of global supply and demand dynamics is essential for procurement teams to manage pricing risks effectively.

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's linear alpha olefins (lao) 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 aggregates real-time pricing data from global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases, ensuring our assessments reflect the most current market conditions for Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO).
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major LAO production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire LAO supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics to understand how these factors influence price movements.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts, trade disputes, or sanctions, that can significantly impact LAO prices. Our analysis considers potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing.
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, floods, or droughts, on LAO production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks, helping clients prepare for possible price fluctuations.
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, detergents, plastics), to predict shifts in LAO demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global LAO production facilities, tracking their operational status, production levels, and any planned shutdowns or expansions. This allows us to accurately assess current supply availability and how it may impact pricing.
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes forecasts of upcoming LAO production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, technological advancements, and capacity expansions. These projections help us predict future supply trends and potential price stabilization or fluctuations.

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive, detergents, and plastics, where LAO is widely used. 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 LAO pricing. We also evaluate shifts in manufacturing bases and trade policies that may impact demand in specific regions.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast LAO prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power, adapting to new information as it becomes available.
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions, helping clients prepare for a range of market outcomes, such as price surges or downturns caused by external disruptions.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers, providing clear insights and recommendations to support informed decision-making.
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support, ensuring clients have the most up-to-date information to navigate market changes. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments, offer tailored advice, and address client queries.

 

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

Linear Alpha Olefins (lao) 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 linear alpha olefins (lao). 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 pricing of Linear Alpha Olefins (LAO) is primarily influenced by the cost of raw materials such as ethylene, the key feedstock for LAO production. Fluctuations in crude oil prices also play a significant role, as they impact ethylene production costs. Other factors include global supply and demand dynamics, logistical costs, production capacity, and geopolitical events that may disrupt supply chains. Environmental regulations, such as stricter emissions standards and sustainability requirements, are also increasingly affecting LAO prices. Procurement teams should consider these factors to anticipate price changes and optimize purchasing strategies.

The price of Linear Alpha Olefins is closely tied to the availability and pricing of ethylene, which is typically derived from natural gas or crude oil. If there is a shortage of ethylene due to disruptions in oil production, refinery outages, or demand spikes in related industries, LAO prices are likely to rise. Conversely, a surplus of ethylene, driven by increased production or lower demand from other sectors, can result in reduced prices for LAOs. Procurement heads must monitor ethylene supply and demand trends closely to anticipate potential price fluctuations and adjust their sourcing strategies accordingly.

Linear Alpha Olefin prices can vary by region due to differences in feedstock availability, production capacities, and local demand. For example, regions with high production of ethylene, such as the Middle East and North America, may experience lower LAO prices due to more favourable production costs. In contrast, regions with limited ethylene production or high import costs, like parts of Europe, may see higher LAO prices. Procurement teams should take these regional price differences into account when developing sourcing strategies, including considering offshore sourcing, securing long-term contracts with regional suppliers, or optimizing logistics to reduce costs.

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