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Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (mdi) Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352118
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (mdi) Price Trends by Country

cnChina
jpJapan
saSaudi Arabia
trTurkey
inIndia
vnVietnam
brBrazil
krSouth Korea

Global methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (mdi) Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price assessment:

  • Polymeric FOB Shanghai, China
  • Polymeric FOB Yokohama, Japan
  • Polymeric FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
  • Polymeric FOB Busan, South Korea
  • Polymeric CIF JNPT_South Korea, India
  • Polymeric CIF Mersin_China, Turkey
  • Polymeric CIF Haiphong_China, Vietnam
  • Polymeric Ex-Mumbai, India
  • Polymeric CIF Santos_South Korea, Brazil

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Price Trend Q3 2025

In Q3 2025, the global Methylene Polymeric MDI market experienced a mild downward trend, with prices declining by 1–5%. The decrease was primarily influenced by moderate softening in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, coupled with restrained demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors. While production levels at major plants remained stable, elevated inventories in key regions and restrained purchasing activity among end-users exerted slight pressure on market sentiment.

China

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Export prices FOB Shanghai, China, Grade- Polymeric.

According to Price-Watch, in Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) prices in China showed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices in September 2025 falling between USD 1900–2050/MT on an FOB China basis. The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in China was influenced by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at major domestic production facilities.

Quieter demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors exerted mild pressure on market sentiment. Regardless of these challenges, balanced supply conditions and steady export activity helped prevent sharper declines.

Japan

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Export prices FOB Yokohama, Japan, Grade- Polymeric.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) prices in Japan showed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices in September 2025 ranging between USD 1750–1900/MT on an FOB Japan basis.

The MDI price trend in Japan was swayed by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside steady operating rates at key domestic production facilities. Less demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors exerted mild pressure on market sentiment.

Saudi Arabia

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Export prices FOB Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Grade- Polymeric.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) prices in Saudi Arabia displayed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices in September 2025 USD 1600–1750/MT on an FOB Saudi Arabia basis. The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in Saudi Arabia was influenced by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at major domestic production facilities. Less demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors put mild pressure on market sentiment.

South Korea

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Export prices FOB Busan, South Korea, Grade- Polymeric.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) prices in South Korea displayed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices in September 2025 USD 1650–1800/MT on an FOB South Korea basis. The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in South Korea was swayed by slight fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at key domestic production facilities. less demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors exerted mild pressure on market sentiment.

India

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) import prices CIF JNPT, India, Grade- Polymeric.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) imports into India saw a mild downward trend, influenced largely by feedstock fluctuations and global supply adjustments. MDI prices in September 2025 ranged between USD 1750–1900/MT for South Korea imports and USD 2000–2200/MT for China imports on a CIF India basis.

The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in India was shaped by moderate changes in aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside steady operating rates at key Asian production hubs. Softer domestic demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors, coupled with steady import volumes, exerted mild downward pressure on market sentiment.

Turkey

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) import prices CIF Izmir, Turkey, Grade- Industrial Grade.

According to Price-Watch, In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) imports into Turkey showed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices in September 2025 ranging between USD 2000–2200/MT on a CIF Turkey basis. The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in Turkey was influenced by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at major Asian production hubs. Quieter demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors, added with steady import inflows, exerted mild pressure on market sentiment.

Vietnam

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) import prices CIF Haiphong, Vietnam, Grade- Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) imports into Turkey from China displayed a light downward movement, with MDI prices imported from China in September 2025 ranging between USD 2000–2200/MT on a CIF Turkey basis.

The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in Turkey was moved by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at major Chinese production hubs. Softer demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors, coupled with steady import inflows, exerted some pressure on market sentiment.

Brazil

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) import prices CIF Santos, Brazil, Grade- Industrial Grade.

In Q3 2025, Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) imports into Brazil from China showed a slight downward movement, with MDI prices imported from China in September 2025 ranging between USD 1800–1950/MT on a CIF Brazil basis.

The Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) price trend in Brazil was influenced by moderate fluctuations in feedstock aniline and formaldehyde costs, alongside stable operating rates at major Chinese production hubs. Less demand from downstream polyurethane (PU) foam, adhesives, and coatings sectors, together with steady import inflows, exerted mild pressure on market sentiment.

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, MDI price trend in the Chinese market registered a sharp decline of 12.91%, falling to USD 2030 per metric ton. The significant drop was driven by persistent weakness in downstream sectors such as construction, insulation, and automotive manufacturing, where demand remained sluggish despite the onset of peak seasonal activity.

Additionally, oversupply in the domestic market due to high operating rates and reduced export volumes created competitive pressure among suppliers, pushing prices downward. Although feedstock prices for aniline and nitrobenzene remained relatively steady, they did not provide sufficient cost support to stabilize MDI prices.

Exporters also lowered offers to clear inventories amid weak international demand, particularly from South Asia and Southeast Asia. The overall sentiment in the Chinese MDI market remained bearish throughout Q2, with ample availability, muted downstream recovery, and limited cost push leading to steep price corrections. 

According to PriceWatch in Q2 2025, MDI prices in the Indian market saw a notable decline, with CIF prices for South Korean-origin material falling by 9.66% to USD 1935 per metric ton, while Ex domestic prices dropped more sharply by 12.39%, reaching USD 2060 per metric ton. The decline was primarily attributed to weak demand from key downstream sectors such as construction, adhesives, and refrigeration, which continued to operate at subdued levels.

The correction in global prices, especially from China and South Korea, directly impacted import costs, prompting local distributors to reduce their prices in tandem. Buyers remained highly cautious, procuring only on a need-based basis due to expectations of further price reductions and sufficient availability in the market. Freight rates remained largely stable, offering little resistance to the downward momentum.

Overall, the Indian MDI market in Q2 reflected a bearish tone driven by soft regional demand, competitive import offers, and a globally declining price environment. 

MDI prices corrected slightly in Q1 2025, falling by 1.69% to USD 2331/MT. This modest decline was attributed to typical post-holiday lulls in industrial activity following the Chinese New Year. Downstream demand from insulation and elastomer sectors softened temporarily, while some buyers delayed restocking in anticipation of further price corrections.

On the supply front, improved plant utilization and lower feedstock costs—especially for benzene—reduced production expenses, allowing suppliers to ease prices slightly. Despite the dip, the overall sentiment remained stable, with expectations of a rebound in Q2 as construction and manufacturing sectors regain momentum. 

MDI prices saw a modest decline in Q1 2025, with India Ex prices falling by 0.85% to USD 2351.23/MT, and CIF South Korea prices easing by 1.57% to USD 2142/MT. The downward shift was a result of typical post-holiday demand slowdown and financial year-end hesitancy across industrial buyers. Sectors like construction and foam insulation reduced offtake due to regional election-related activity, Holi-related shutdowns, and fiscal caution.

Meanwhile, improved availability from South Korea and softening feedstock prices helped lower the cost of imports. As a result, both domestic and import market participants adjusted prices to reflect subdued buying sentiment, leading to a marginal dip in overall market levels. 

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

Prices continued to climb in Q4 2024, rising by 3.36% to USD 2371/MT, supported by sustained demand from infrastructure and appliance manufacturing sectors. While some seasonal softness typically occurs in this quarter, government-backed construction and green building initiatives helped sustain procurement from the rigid foam segment.

Meanwhile, reduced production output due to selective plant turnarounds and tighter environmental regulations in key regions added to supply-side constraints. Continued strength in overseas orders also absorbed a portion of local production, maintaining firm pricing levels despite year-end slowdowns in some domestic markets. 

Prices corrected downward in Q4 2024, with India Ex prices falling by 6.62% to USD 2371.38/MT and CIF South Korea prices dipping marginally by 0.28% to USD 2176.23/MT. The decline followed an aggressive price rally in the previous quarter and coincided with seasonal demand softening, especially as construction activity began to slow heading into winter.

Additionally, inventories had built up during the previous high-demand phase, leading to a more cautious procurement approach by downstream buyers. Imports remained steady, but competitive overseas pricing pressured domestic producers to adjust offers downward, contributing to the correction in Ex-Works values. 

In Q3 2024, MDI prices saw another rise of 3.15%, reaching USD 2294/MT. The upward trend was supported by ongoing construction and manufacturing demand, particularly in urban development projects and appliance insulation. Fluctuations in feedstock prices, particularly in the benzene market, led to an increase in overall production costs.

At the same time, limited new supply and low stock levels across many downstream converters allowed suppliers to maintain pricing discipline. Export activity remained healthy, especially to South Asia and the Middle East, further tightening domestic availability and keeping the market on a positive trajectory. 

In Q3 2024, MDI prices saw their most significant quarterly rise, with India Ex prices jumping 10.54% to USD 2539.54/MT, while CIF prices rose by 4.94% to USD 2182.31/MT. The sharp increase in domestic prices was primarily driven by peak-season construction activity, particularly in commercial insulation and infrastructure expansion projects.

Delays in cargo arrivals from South Korea due to port congestion and weather disruptions also limited import availability, pushing more buyers to rely on domestic sources. Additionally, a brief supply squeeze from a key Indian producer undergoing unplanned maintenance added to the price hike. Despite the rise in CIF values, the local market continued to command a premium due to tight supply and high demand. 

MDI prices rose further by 4.02% in Q2 2024, settling at USD 2224/MT. The increase was supported by improved construction activity as warmer weather spurred demand for rigid foam applications in insulation and paneling. Rising feedstock costs and tightening logistics in select regions added to upward pricing pressure.

Several manufacturers also announced scheduled maintenance, slightly limiting domestic output and adding to the bullish tone. In addition, sustained export interest and moderate inventory levels encouraged producers to hold firm on pricing, leading to a gradually strengthening market throughout the quarter. 

Prices continued their upward trajectory in Q2 2024, with India Ex rising by 5.01% to USD 2297.46/MT and CIF values increasing by 6.47% to USD 2079.54/MT. The rise was supported by strong demand from the construction and appliance manufacturing sectors, fueled by summer-driven installation of insulation and refrigeration units.

Tightened vessel availability and extended lead times on South Korean shipments contributed to firmer CIF values. Domestically, producers faced elevated raw material costs, particularly for benzene derivatives, while robust consumption kept inventories low. This favorable demand-supply dynamic allowed both local suppliers and importers to maintain pricing strength. 

Prices increased by 4.19%, reaching USD 2138/MT in Q1 2024. The uptick was driven by a combination of rising feedstock costs—particularly aniline and benzene—and moderate post-Lunar New Year restocking activity. Downstream manufacturers resumed production across sectors such as insulation, adhesives, and polyurethane elastomers, contributing to increased demand.

Although domestic consumption was slightly staggered due to the extended holiday period, robust export orders helped absorb supply. Producers leveraged tighter supply in the early part of the quarter, supporting firmer pricing as inventories remained manageable. 

MDI prices rose in Q1 2024, with India Ex prices increasing by 4.02% to USD 2187.8/MT and CIF prices from South Korea rising by 9.09% to USD 1953.08/MT. The surge was driven by strong post-winter restocking demand and heightened activity in insulation and cold storage sectors. Supply disruptions in parts of Northeast Asia, due to planned maintenance and tighter regulations, limited availability of imports, pushing CIF prices higher.

Meanwhile, firm feedstock costs and the start of new project pipelines in India contributed to the upward momentum in domestic prices. Traders also reported active procurement from downstream foam manufacturers, supporting a bullish trend throughout the quarter. 

Technical Specifications of Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (mdi) Price Trends

Product Description:

Polymeric MDI (Polymethylene Polyphenyl Isocyanate) is a dark brown liquid aromatic isocyanate composed primarily of diphenylmethane diisocyanate (MDI) and higher molecular weight oligomers. It is widely used as a key raw material in the production of rigid polyurethane (PU) and polyisocyanurate (PIR) foams, which are known for their excellent thermal insulation, structural strength, and chemical resistance.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No – 9016-87-9
  • HS Code – 39093100
  • Molecular Formula – C15H10N2O2
  • Molecular Weight[g/mol] – 250.25


Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate Synonyms:

  • Polymeric Diphenylmethane diisocyanate
  • Polymeric MDI


Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Polymeric


Polymeric MDI Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-28 MT, 10-15 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): 200 kg Drums, 230 kg Drums, 235 kg Drums, 250 kg Drums

Incoterms Referenced in Polymeric MDI Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Shanghai  Shanghai, China  MDI Export price from China 
FOB Yokohama  Yokohama, Japan  MDI Export price from Japan 
FOB Jeddah  Jeddah, Saudi Arabia  MDI Export price from Saudi Arabia 
FOB Busan  Busan, South Korea  MDI Export price from South Korea 
CIF JNPT_South Korea  Mumbai, India  MDI import price in India from South Korea 
CIF Mersin_China  Mersin, Turkey  MDI import price in Turkey from China 
CIF Haiphong_China  Haiphong, Vietnam  MDI import price in Vietnam from China 
Ex-Mumbai  Mumbai, India  Domestically Traded MDI price in Mumbai 
CIF Santos_South Korea  Santos, Brazil  MDI import price in Brazil from South Korea 

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

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

Key Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) Manufacturers and their brands

Brand  Company 
WANNATE PM 200  Wanhua Chemical Group Co., Ltd. 
Desmodur®  Covestro AG 
Lupranate  BASF SE 
Isonate 143L  Huntsman Corporation 
Suprasec  Dow Chemical Company 
KUMHO MDI  Kumho Mitsui Chemicals 
Millionate  Tosoh Corporation 

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (mdi) Industrial Applications

MDI market share end use

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (mdi) prices

  • Supply Chain Disruptions (2021-2022): Various factors such as shipping delays, container shortages, and logistical challenges exacerbated by the pandemic led to supply chain disruptions, impacting MDI availability and prices. 
  • China’s Real Estate Market Slowdown (2018-2022): The slowdown in China’s real estate sector, including the debt crisis faced by major property developers, reduced demand for MDI, which is heavily used in construction materials. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): The global pandemic caused major disruptions in manufacturing, supply chains, and demand across industries, including construction and automotive. The resulting economic uncertainty and shutdowns led to significant volatility in MDI prices. 
  • China-U.S. Trade War (2018-2019): The trade tensions between China and the United States led to tariffs and trade barriers that affected raw material costs and supply chains, impacting MDI prices in the APAC region. 

 

These events underscore the MDI market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (mdi) 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 a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major MDI production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire MDI supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., naphtha, ethane) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact MDI prices. Our analysis includes 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 or winter storms, on MDI production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging), to predict shifts in MDI demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global MDI production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming MDI production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. 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 MDI pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast MDI prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

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

Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (mdi) 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 methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (mdi). 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 price of Methylene Diphenyl Diisocyanate (MDI) is affected by several factors, including the cost of key raw materials such as benzene and aniline. Fluctuations in crude oil prices can impact these feedstock costs, contributing to overall price volatility. Additionally, supply and demand dynamics in key industries like polyurethane foams, adhesives, and coatings play a crucial role. Regulatory policies, environmental restrictions, transportation costs, and production disruptions can also cause price fluctuations. Procurement teams should closely monitor these factors to optimize purchasing strategies.

The MDI market is sensitive to supply chain disruptions, which can arise from factors such as plant shutdowns, transportation bottlenecks, and raw material shortages. Given that MDI production is concentrated among a few major manufacturers globally, any unexpected outages or regulatory restrictions can lead to price surges. Conversely, increased production capacity or new market entrants may stabilize or reduce prices. Tracking supply chain developments is crucial for businesses looking to manage procurement risks effectively.

MDI prices differ across regions based on local production capacities, raw material availability, and demand conditions. Asia, particularly China, is a major producer and consumer, often benefiting from economies of scale and competitive pricing. North America and Europe, with stricter environmental regulations and higher production costs, may experience relatively higher prices. Procurement teams should evaluate regional price trends and consider factors like import duties, freight costs, and supplier reliability when making sourcing decisions.

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