China
Vietnam
India
Argentina
PhilippinesAccording to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China fell by 10.68% to 1078 USD per MT in Q1 2025. The decline in prices during this period can be attributed to a combination of weak demand from downstream sectors such as automotive and textile industries, which typically slow down post-holidays.
Additionally, CIF countries such as Argentina, the Philippines, and Vietnam saw a decrease in import volumes, contributing to the overall price trend. Feedstock costs, particularly propylene, remained stable, but did not rise significantly enough to offset the lower demand.
The lower consumption in both the domestic and export markets led to the sharp price decrease, with Vietnam and Argentina experiencing the most noticeable drops in prices. The Q1 2025 price trend was thus largely driven by seasonal demand variations and weaker-than-expected global consumption.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China dropped by 7.85% to 993 USD per MT in Q2 2025. The price trend saw a significant decline because of reduced demand from key downstream industries such as pharmaceuticals, coatings, and automotive, all of which typically experience lower activity in the middle of the year. The seasonality effect played a major role in this decrease, as industrial activity generally slows down after the peak months.
Furthermore, the CIF countries, including Argentina, the Philippines, and Vietnam, also witnessed a decline in prices, with Vietnam seeing a more substantial decrease compared to other regions. The reduction in feedstock costs, particularly propylene, added to the downward pressure on prices. Additionally, overall market uncertainty and lower consumption further contributed to the sharp price drop across the board.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China increased by 1.52% to 1020 USD per MT in Q1 2024 compared to the previous quarter. The price trend saw a modest rise, primarily due to stable demand from the downstream pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, which use N-propanol as a solvent. The feedstock market remained steady, providing a stable production base.
Despite the slight increase, the price rise was not dramatic, reflecting the seasonal nature of industrial demand at the beginning of the year. In CIF countries, including Argentina, the Philippines, and Vietnam, the prices saw similar increases. The overall market conditions were conducive to steady price growth, driven by consistent production and stable demand across the key importing countries.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China decreased by 0.38% to 1016 USD per MT in Q2 2024. The slight drop in prices was mainly driven by lower demand from the automotive and chemical sectors, which typically experience reduced activity during the mid-year period. The feedstock market remained stable, but the seasonal slowdown in industrial production led to this minor decrease in prices.
CIF countries such as Vietnam and Argentina also reflected this trend, with Argentina showing a marginal decline, while the Philippines remained stable. While the reduction in prices was modest, it still marked a contrast with the prior quarter’s price increases. The demand in key markets softened, leading to a slight dip in prices across the board, although supply chains continued to function without significant disruptions.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China saw a substantial increase of 8.30%, reaching 1101 USD per MT in Q3 2024. This price surge was largely driven by higher demand from pharmaceutical and chemical industries, which saw a seasonal boost. Additionally, the feedstock market, particularly propylene, saw a rise in prices, contributing to higher production costs. Global logistics issues also led to tighter supply, which further drove up the price of N-propanol.
CIF countries, especially Vietnam and Argentina, mirrored this increase, with Vietnam showing the sharpest price rise of about 9.5%. This price growth in Q3 2024 was also fueled by stronger industrial activities and higher export demand, particularly in the pharmaceutical sector. An increase was expected as manufacturers and importers prepared for the end-of-year demand spike.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China increased by 9.63% to 1207 USD per MT in Q4 2024. This price surge can be attributed to a seasonal uptick in demand, especially from downstream industries like pharmaceuticals, automotive, and chemicals. As the end of the year approached, increased production activity and a rise in consumer demand contributed to higher consumption of N-propanol.
The feedstock supply chain also saw some tightening, with rising propylene prices influencing production costs. CIF countries such as Vietnam, Argentina, and the Philippines also reflected this upward trend, with Vietnam seeing a noticeable price increase due to higher demand in the coatings and automotive sectors. The Q4 2024 price increase was primarily driven by seasonal factors, increased market activity, and tighter global supply chains.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) decreased by 10.01% to 1158 USD per MT in Q1 2025. The price trend was influenced by weaker demand from key downstream sectors like textiles and automotive, traditionally slower post-holiday. The feedstock market also saw some price softening, further contributing to the lower prices.
However, India’s Ex-Kandla market saw a modest increase of 4.73%, reaching 1163 USD per MT. This price rise was likely due to localized supply chain factors and continued demand from the pharmaceutical sector.
While the CIF price reduction reflected global market pressures, the Ex-Kandla market showed resilience. Despite the overall drop in CIF prices, India’s importers maintained consistent buying activity, though more cautious due to global economic uncertainties. The contrast between CIF and Ex-Kandla pricing highlighted regional variations and differing supply-demand dynamics during this period.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) dropped by 9.14% to 1052 USD per MT in Q2 2025. The price trend reflects reduced demand from India’s downstream pharmaceutical and chemical sectors, which typically slow down mid-year.
Additionally, feedstock prices for propylene softened, which contributed to the overall price decline. The Ex-Kandla market in India saw a similar dip of 4.61%, reaching 1110 USD per MT, as regional supply continued to stabilize. The domestic market in India felt the impact of seasonal demand reductions, with fewer orders from manufacturing industries.
Despite these declines, India’s importers continued to secure stable supplies from China, but at a more cautious pace. In comparison to Q1 2025, the second-quarter decrease signals that the market is adjusting to lower activity levels, particularly in the automotive and construction sectors.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) rose by 4.80% to 1076 USD per MT in Q1 2024. The price trend reflected a seasonal increase in demand from India’s downstream industries, particularly pharmaceuticals and chemicals, as production ramped up in early 2024. Feedstock prices for propylene remained stable, contributing to the overall price rise. On the domestic front, Ex-Kandla prices increased by 4.33%, reaching 1152 USD per MT.
This increase was driven by stronger regional demand and tighter local supply. India’s importers continued to secure steady shipments from China, with favorable market conditions supporting the price growth. While the CIF market reflected global supply-demand dynamics, the Ex-Kandla market showed more localized fluctuations, as regional factors played a larger role in pricing. The quarter-over-quarter increase in both markets indicated healthy demand, though price pressures began to build towards the end of Q1 2024.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) saw a modest increase of 0.24%, reaching 1078 USD per MT in Q2 2024. The price trend was relatively stable despite softer demand from certain industries like automotive and textiles, which typically slow down mid-year. The Ex-Kandla market experienced a stronger increase of 15.78%, reaching 1334 USD per MT. This significant rise in the domestic market was driven by regional supply constraints and increased demand from India’s pharmaceutical sector.
While the CIF price increase was modest, the domestic Ex-Kandla market showed more volatility due to local factors. Despite this, both markets managed to remain stable overall, reflecting steady demand for N-propanol from downstream sectors, especially pharmaceuticals. The comparative price rise in Ex-Kandla versus CIF indicated that local dynamics were influencing the domestic pricing more than global trends at the time.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) increased by 9.31% to 1178 USD per MT in Q3 2024. The price trend saw a strong rebound, driven by recovery in demand across downstream industries such as pharmaceuticals, automotive, and chemicals. Seasonal demand spikes, especially in the automotive and coatings sectors, led to increased orders and higher production requirements.
The Ex-Kandla market saw a smaller increase of 3.96%, reaching 1387 USD per MT, driven by higher local production activity and limited stock. Despite the global supply chain pressures, imports from China remained stable. The comparative rise in CIF prices reflected a stronger global market, while Ex-Kandla’s gradual increase suggested that local suppliers continued to face supply chain issues. The price uptick in both markets indicated improving demand, particularly as production ramped up in anticipation of the year-end peak.Â
According to the PriceWatch, N-propanol prices from China to India (CIF) surged by 9.22% to 1287 USD per MT in Q4 2024. The price trend was driven by increased demand from India’s pharmaceutical, automotive, and chemical sectors, which typically see higher activity during the festive season. Additionally, feedstock costs for propylene were on the rise, contributing to the overall price increase. The Ex-Kandla market in India also reflected a price drop of 19.92%, reaching 1111 USD per MT.
This significant fall in Ex-Kandla prices was likely due to reduced demand at the end of the year and inventory adjustments. Despite the decline in the domestic market, imports from China remained strong, supporting the price increase in CIF. In comparison to Q3 2024, the price jump signified a seasonal uptick driven by increased demand, but the Ex-Kandla price divergence indicated the ongoing challenges in balancing domestic supply and demand.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
n-Propanol is a colourless alcohol primarily produced from propylene via direct hydration or oxo synthesis. Known for its mild odour and excellent solvency, it is widely used in coatings, printing inks, and cosmetics. As a versatile solvent and chemical intermediate, n-propanol plays a vital role in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and cleaning products, ensuring industrial efficiency.
Packaging Type
N-propanol 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 |
| Purity  | 99.5% |
| Refractive Index  | 1.39 |
| Boiling Point  | 96-98 °C |
| Freezing Point | -127 °C |
| Vapour Pressure (20 °C) | 14.5 mm Hg |
| Specific Gravity  | 0.8 |
| Surface Tension (dynes/cm)Â | 23.8Â |
| Autoignition Temperature | 413 °C |
N-propanol Applications
n-Propanol is used mainly as a feedstock/intermediate to make other chemicals including:Â
n-Propyl AcetateÂ
PropylaminesÂ
Glycol EthersÂ
Esters and PlasticizersÂ
Supply Chain Disruptions: The conflict disrupted trade routes in Eastern Europe, causing logistical challenges for the transport of raw materials and finished chemicals like n-Propanol. Sanctions on Russia, a major energy and chemical exporter, limited access to petrochemical feedstocks essential for producing alcohols like n-Propanol.Â
Energy Prices and Feedstock Costs: The war led to volatility in crude oil and natural gas prices, which are primary feedstocks for n-Propanol production. Rising energy costs increased the operational expenses for chemical manufacturers globally, pushing up prices.Â
Demand-Supply Imbalance: Disruptions in industrial production in conflict-affected regions led to a supply shortage. Concurrently, increased demand for sanitizers, disinfectants, and cleaning agents during the pandemic sustained a high demand for n-Propanol, intensifying price pressures.Â
Economic Uncertainty: The conflict caused financial instability, affecting currencies, trade policies, and global economic growth, all of which influenced commodity pricing, including chemicals like n-Propanol.Â
Surge in Demand for Disinfectants and Sanitizers: n-Propanol is a critical ingredient in the production of sanitizers and disinfectants due to its antibacterial properties. The heightened demand for hygiene products led to a rapid spike in n-Propanol consumption, driving prices higher, especially during the early phases of the pandemic.Â
Supply Chain Disruptions: Lockdowns and restrictions across countries disrupted manufacturing, transportation, and distribution channels. This limited the availability of raw materials and finished n-Propanol, exacerbating supply shortages.Â
Fluctuations in Petrochemical Feedstock Prices: n-Propanol is derived from petrochemical processes, making its production cost-sensitive to fluctuations in crude oil prices. Early in the pandemic, crude oil prices plummeted due to reduced demand, temporarily lowering feedstock costs.Â
Shifts in Industrial Activity: Many industries using n-Propanol, such as coatings, printing inks, and solvents, faced slowdowns or shutdowns during lockdowns, reducing demand in these sectors. This created a dual market dynamic, with reduced industrial demand but surging healthcare-related demand.Â
Market Speculation and Hoarding: Panic buying and speculative stocking of n-Propanol by distributors and manufacturers amplified price volatility during the peak of the pandemic.Â
Trade Wars and Tariffs: The U.S.-China trade war-imposed tariffs on a wide range of goods, including petrochemical products and their derivatives like n-Propanol. Increased tariffs raised production costs for manufacturers in affected regions, leading to price hikes for downstream products like n-Propanol. Disruptions in trade routes and shifts in global sourcing caused supply-demand imbalances.Â
Oil Price Volatility: Geopolitical conflicts, including U.S. sanctions on Iran and tensions in the Middle East, led to fluctuations in crude oil prices. Since n-Propanol production relies on petrochemical feedstocks derived from crude oil, these price changes directly impacted its production costs and market prices.Â
Regional Instability: Political unrest in key regions, such as Venezuela (a major oil producer) and ongoing disputes in the Middle East, created uncertainty in the supply of raw materials. This instability led to inconsistent supply chains, pushing up costs for chemicals dependent on these resources.Â
Shifting Production Patterns: Geopolitical instability caused manufacturers to re-evaluate sourcing and production strategies, potentially leading to higher logistics and operational costs for n-Propanol producers.Â
Demand-Supply Fluctuations: Demand for n-Propanol remained stable in some industries, like coatings and inks, but supply disruptions and price volatility in raw materials caused unpredictable price movements.
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global n-propanol price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the n-propanol 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 n-propanol prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely n-propanol market data.
Track PriceWatch's n-propanol 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.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable n-Propanol pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
n-Propanol is a colourless alcohol primarily produced from propylene via direct hydration or oxo synthesis. Known for its mild odour and excellent solvency, it is widely used in coatings, printing inks, and cosmetics. As a versatile solvent and chemical intermediate, n-propanol plays a vital role in manufacturing pharmaceuticals, adhesives, and cleaning products, ensuring industrial efficiency.
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 |
| Purity  | 99.5% |
| Refractive Index  | 1.39 |
| Boiling Point  | 96-98 °C |
| Freezing Point | -127 °C |
| Vapour Pressure (20 °C) | 14.5 mm Hg |
| Specific Gravity  | 0.8 |
| Surface Tension (dynes/cm)Â | 23.8Â |
| Autoignition Temperature | 413 °C |
Applications
n-Propanol is used mainly as a feedstock/intermediate to make other chemicals including:Â
n-Propyl AcetateÂ
PropylaminesÂ
Glycol EthersÂ
Esters and PlasticizersÂ
The pricing of n-Propanol is influenced by several factors, including raw material costs such as propylene, fluctuations in supply and demand within industries like paints, coatings, and adhesives, as well as external elements like geopolitical events, trade tariffs, and energy prices. These factors combine to create variability in pricing depending on global economic conditions.
Regional production plays a significant role in n-propanol pricing. Regions with high production, like Asia-Pacific, tend to have more competitive pricing due to local availability, whereas regions that rely on imports, such as North America and Europe, often face higher costs due to transportation fees, import duties, and potential supply chain disruptions.
The latest pricing trends for n-propanol often reflect fluctuations in the cost of raw materials and changes in global supply chains. To secure better rates, procurement heads can consider locking in long-term contracts with suppliers, monitoring global price trends and indices, and optimizing bulk purchasing strategies to take advantage of volume discounts.