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United KingdomIn the first quarter of 2025, Methanol prices in Saudi Arabia (Purity: >99% FOB Jeddah) are read to rise slightly, with the price reported at $255/MT, showing a 3.10% increase from Q4 2024. This increase can be attributed to a seasonal recovery in demand as diligence ramp up product after the gleeful season. also, the global demand for Methanol, especially from arising requests, is anticipated to rise, supporting price growth. Domestic demand for Methanol- grounded products in Saudi Arabia is likely to see a supplement, further contributing to the slight increase in prices as the request stabilizes after the vacation season.
In Q4 2024, the price of Methanol in Saudi Arabia (Purity: >99% FOB Jeddah) further dropped to $250/MT, showing a -2.62% drop from Q3. This continued decline was driven by the end of the time retardation, as numerous diligences began to reduce product in medication for the vacation season. With slightly lower demand from diligence like automotive and construction, which are critical consumers of Methanol, the request saw lower urgency in purchasing, leading to price reductions. Abundant force continued to ensure that prices remained at the lower end, with minimum oscillations anticipated during this quieter period.
Still, by Q3 2024, the Methanol request in Saudi Arabia (Purity: >99% FOB Jeddah) endured a slight drop again, with prices falling to $255/MT, reflecting a -4.17% decline from Q2. This was largely due to seasonal factors, as the summer months generally witness a retardation in demand from the construction and automotive sectors. The drop in demand during this period, coupled with abundant force from original directors, put downcast pressure on Methanol prices. Domestic product was steady, but the reduced need for Methanol- grounded resins and chemicals during the summer months contributed to the price stabilization in this quarter.
In Q2 2024, the price of Methanol in Saudi Arabia (Purity: >99% FOB Jeddah) rebounded slightly, rising to $265/MT, showing a positive trend of 1.66% from Q1. This increase was driven by a recovery in demand from crucial sectors like plastics, automotive, and chemicals, which started ramping up product after the post-holiday pause. The increase in global Methanol demand, especially from Asia and Europe, also helped support prices. also, logistical advancements and a stabilization in freight rates helped grease smoother distribution, farther boosting request conditions and driving a positive price change.
In Q1 2024, the Methanol request in Saudi Arabia (Purity: >99% FOB Jeddah) saw a slight drop in prices, with the cost reported at $260/MT, down by -10.19% from the former quarter. This downcast trend can be attributed to several factors, including a slight dip in global demand for Methanol as the request entered the time with lower consumption situations. also, seasonal retardations in major downstream diligence like automotive and construction redounded in reduced demand for Methanol- grounded products. On the force side, abundant Methanol vacuity due to increased product situations from Saudi Arabia’s large- scale manufacturing installations helped to balance request conditions, but it contributed to a slight price decline.
Looking into Q1 2025, Methanol prices in India (Purity: >99% (Retail) Ex-Ahmedabad) are expected to rise significantly, reaching $535/MT, a +11.46% increase from Q4 2024. This sharp increase is expected due to the seasonal surge in demand as industries enter their peak production periods after the New Year. The upcoming festive season, combined with the ramping up of manufacturing activity, will likely lead to tighter supply conditions, which will put upward pressure on prices. Additionally, global feedstock price fluctuations and rising transportation costs are expected to further contribute to the price increase in the first quarter of 2025.
In Q4 2024, the Methanol market in India (Purity: >99% (Retail) Ex-Ahmedabad) saw a slight rebound, with prices rising to $480/MT, a +2.13% increase from Q3. This price increase was driven by a recovery in demand as industries began to ramp up production in anticipation of the festive season. The demand for Methanol from the automotive, chemical, and construction sectors picked up, leading to tighter market conditions. Despite the available abundant supply, seasonal demand from sectors that peak in the final quarter pushed prices higher. Additionally, logistical improvements and a stable feedstock supply helped keep prices in check while allowing for a slight increase.
By Q3 2024, the Methanol market in India (Purity: >99% (Retail) Ex-Ahmedabad) experienced a more significant decline, with prices reported at $470/MT, a -3.09% decrease from Q2. This downward trend was driven by a continued slowdown in demand as industries entered a less active phase post-festive season. The summer months typically see lower demand in key sectors, including textiles and automotive, leading to reduced consumption of Methanol. Despite an abundant supply in the market, reduced production and consumption at the domestic level resulted in a pricing decline. Furthermore, the availability of alternative feed stocks and logistical challenges continued to put pressure on the market, contributing to the lower prices.
In Q2 2024, Methanol prices in India (Purity: >99% (Retail) Ex-Ahmedabad) saw a slight stabilization, falling to $485/MT, which was a -2.02% decrease from Q1. This drop can be attributed to a seasonal slowdown in demand following the initial post-festive spike. Many industries, especially those in automotive and construction, reduced their activity after the rush in Q1. The general slowdown in manufacturing during the mid-year period, combined with stable domestic supply, contributed to the price dip. Additionally, a drop in global energy prices and a reduction in transportation costs further stabilized prices during this quarter.
In Q1 2024, the Methanol market in India (Purity: >99% (Retail) Ex-Ahmedabad) reported prices at $495/MT, marking a +6.45% increase from the previous quarter. This price surge can be attributed to higher demand from key industries such as chemicals, automotive, and construction, which started ramping up production at the beginning of the year. The post-festive period saw increased production activity in preparation for the upcoming peak season, leading to higher consumption of Methanol. Additionally, there were some supply-side pressures, as logistical disruptions and rising feedstock costs contributed to the upward price movement. The increased demand, coupled with global market conditions, pushed prices higher despite the abundant supply available.
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These events illustrate how the Methanol market is highly sensitive to geopolitical tensions, global energy dynamics, and disruptions in supply and demand, making it essential to monitor ongoing market trends and developments.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Methanol pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, is a clear, colourless, and volatile liquid primarily used as a feedstock in the production of chemicals like formaldehyde, acetic acid, and plastics. It is also an important component in fuel blending and is used in biodiesel production. Methanol is derived from natural gas or coal, and its versatility makes it a key material in various industrial processes, including energy and transportation.
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.
| ITEM | METHOD | UNITS | SPECIFICATIONS | RESULTS |
| 2001 B | ||||
| Appearance | IMPCA 003 | Visual | CFSM | CFSM |
| Purity on Dry Basis | IMPCA 001 | % m/m | Min. 99.85 | >99.95 |
| Ethanol | IMPCA 001 | mg/Kg | Max. 50 | 18 |
| Acetone | IMPCA 001 | mg/Kg | Max. 30 | <5 |
| Colour Pt-Co | ASTM D 1209 | Pt-Co | Max. S | ‹5 |
| Water Content | ASTM E 1064 | % m/m | Max. 0.1 | 0.005 |
| IBP | ASTM D 1078 | °C | Max. 1.0°C to include 64.6° +/- 0.1° | 64.4 |
| FBP | 64.6 | |||
| Distillation Range | 0.2 | |||
| Specific Gravity @ 20/20° | ASTM D 4052 | 0.791 – 0.793 | 0.7927 | |
| Density @ 15°C | ASTM D 4052 | kg/L | 0.7959 | |
| Permanganate Fade Time | ASTM D 1363 | Minutes | Min. 60 | 90 |
| Chloride | IMPCA 002 | mg/kg | Max. 0.5 | <0.25 |
| Sulphur Content | ASTM D 5453 | mg/kg | Max. 0.5 | <0.5 |
| Hydrocarbons | ASTM D 1722 | Pass Test | Pass | |
| Carbonizable Substance | ASTM E 346 | Pt-Co | Max. 30 | <30 |
| Acidity as Acetic Acid | ASTM D 1613 | ppm (m/m) | Max. 30 | 10 |
| Iron | ASTM E 394 | mg/kg | Max. 0.1 | 0.02 |
| Non-Volatile Matter | ASTM D 1353 | mg/L | Max. 8 | 0.2 |
Applications
Methanol is primarily used as a feedstock to produce various chemicals, including formaldehyde, acetic acid, and methyl tert-butyl ether (MTBE). It is also widely used in fuel blending, biodiesel production, and as a solvent in industrial processes. Additionally, Methanol plays a key role in the manufacturing of plastics, adhesives, and pharmaceuticals.
Methanol prices are influenced by various factors, including the cost of natural gas, which serves as the primary feedstock for methanol production. Fluctuations in natural gas prices, geopolitical tensions, and changes in energy policies can significantly affect methanol pricing. Additionally, supply chain disruptions, demand from end-use industries such as chemicals, plastics, and automotive, and seasonal variations in consumption all play a crucial role in determining methanol prices. Procurement heads should stay informed about these market dynamics to make strategic purchasing decisions.
Production capacity shifts, driven by new methanol plant constructions or closures, directly affect the supply side of the market. When new plants come online or existing plants expand their output, it can lead to increased methanol availability, potentially driving prices down. Conversely, plant shutdowns due to maintenance or regulatory compliance can lead to supply shortages and price increases. Procurement professionals should closely monitor announcements related to production capacity changes and adjust their sourcing strategies accordingly to capitalize on favorable pricing conditions.
Regional price differences for methanol arise from variations in production costs, transportation expenses, and local market demand. For instance, regions with abundant natural gas supplies, such as the United States and the Middle East, often enjoy lower methanol prices compared to regions reliant on imports. Additionally, environmental regulations and tariffs can also impact regional pricing. Procurement teams should conduct thorough market analyses to identify cost-competitive sourcing opportunities across regions, allowing for optimized purchasing strategies that align with their organization’s financial objectives.
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