In Q1 2024 the Asian n-Propanol market increased by 0.97% as compared to the Q4 of 2023. In the first quarter, the n-propanol market in Asia experienced an upward trend due to increased stocking activities driven primarily by increasing feedstock costs, particularly for propylene. At the same time, major manufacturers announced price hikes for several base chemicals, further contributing to the upward trend in n-Propanol prices. The challenges in the Chinese market have had a same impact on price of India, Argentina, Vietnam, and Philippines, as China is a significant exporter to all these countries. In contrast, the Taiwan market, n-Propanol prices rose due to increased demand for paints & coatings from the building & construction and automotive industries along with managing inventory levels. By the end of the quarter in Taiwan, the price of n-Propanol reached 871 USD per metric ton in March.
In Q2 2024, the Asian n-Propanol market experienced an upward trend in beginning of quarter as compared to first quarter of 2024 but further there was a decrease in May and then towards the end of the quarter a slight uptrend was observed as some production units resumed operations and demand softened marginally. These fluctuations were influenced by various factors, including changing demand patterns in downstream sectors. In Taiwan, n-Propanol market showed a downward trend towards the end of the quarter. By the end of the quarter in June, the price of n-Propanol in Taiwan settled at 861 USD per metric ton.
In Q3 2024, the n-Propanol market will continue to experience an upward price pressure due to ongoing supply limitations. The growing demand for adhesives, paints, automotives will expect to boost the n-Propanol market in the APAC region. As of July 2024, n-Propanol prices were fluctuating and reflecting around 0.47% increase from the previous month. In the beginning of the quarter in July, the price of Taiwan reached at 934 USD per metric ton.
In Q4 2024, the Asia-Pacific region will experience upward trend in n-Propanol prices. Key factors driving these price fluctuations include differing demand trends across various countries, particularly influenced by Asia’s strong performance. Additionally, rising raw material prices will affect production costs, while ongoing trade tensions will disrupt regional supply chains. In the short term, the n-Propanol market will experience growth primarily due to rising demand from the paints, coatings and automotive. In addition, the global production of n-Propanol is expected to increase owing to the rising demand for coating from end use industries.