In Q1 2024, the global Liquified Petroleum Gas (LPG) market, particularly in major Countries as the USA, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar, saw a bullish trend. This was driven by rising Propane and butane prices, as well as increasing demand from sectors like petrochemicals and residential use. In the UAE, LPG prices reflected this upward movement, with Propane prices at USD 660.28/MT, showing a slight increase of 1.53% compared to the previous quarter. Butane prices also rose to USD 670.85/MT, reflecting a 1.58% increase from the prior period. The Middle East and African markets experienced strong demand for LPG due to regional construction growth and energy consumption needs.
In Q2 2024, however, the market faced a shift. Propane prices in the UAE declined to USD 626.63/MT, showing a drop of 5.09% from Q1, while butane prices fell to USD 627.47/MT, indicating a 6.48% decline. This decline in LPG prices was largely due to advancements in the production process, improving efficiency and increasing supply, which reduced market pressure. Additionally, the overall demand for LPG saw a drop due to the seasonal slowdown in consumption and technological innovations that reduced dependence on traditional LPG applications.
By August 2024, during Q3, the LPG market began to stabilize again. Propane prices in the UAE were reported at USD 610/MT, reflecting a modest increase of 0.85% from the previous quarter. Butane prices were also slightly up at USD 590.95/MT, with a 0.21% increase. This stabilization was supported by a balancing of supply and demand, driven by production adjustments in key regions. On a global scale, abundant supply and ongoing freight challenges moderated price fluctuations, but demand remained robust in the petrochemical sector, particularly in North America and Asia.
Looking ahead to Q4 2024, the LPG market is expected to face upward pressure, especially with the festive season and increased energy consumption. Demand from the packaging and construction sectors is likely to increase, particularly in the Middle East and Asian markets. However, challenges such as ongoing freight disruptions, fluctuating production rates, and geopolitical factors could continue to create volatility in the market. Despite this, the outlook for LPG prices is cautiously optimistic, with potential for modest price increases as the year-end approaches.