Moving into Q1 2025, Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) prices in the FOB Jebel Ali continued to stabilize at $626.67 USD/MT, reflecting a 2.34% decrease from Q4 2024. The market experienced an abundant supply, as some international buyers delayed purchases, anticipating further price corrections. Nevertheless, steady export activities and the UAE’s strategic position as a key supplier helped maintain overall market stability, avoiding any significant disruptions in pricing.
By Q4 2024, Naphtha prices in the FOB Jebel Ali slightly stabilized to $641.67 USD/MT, marking a 2.76% decrease from Q3. The decline was primarily attributed to reduced overseas demand, as several importing regions adjusted their procurement strategies and stock levels, leading to a temporary slowdown in exports. Moreover, seasonal fluctuations in industrial activity influenced buying patterns, slightly dipping the Naphtha market prices. Despite this, the UAE’s strong production capabilities and well-established supply chain ensured a balanced supply, preventing any sharp price drops.
In Q3 2024, the Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) market in the FOB Jebel Ali witnessed an upward trend, with prices reaching $659.88 USD/MT, reflecting a 4.96% increase from Q2. This rise was mainly driven by robust demand from key Asian and European markets, as countries looked to secure reliable Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) supplies amid global Naphtha market uncertainties. Additionally, strong refining activity and optimized production operations in the UAE contributed to stable output levels, further supporting Naphtha price growth. The increased consumption of Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) in downstream petrochemical and refining industries also played a vital role in maintaining market momentum.
In Q2 2024, Naphtha prices in the FOB Jebel Ali rose to USD 628.70/MT, indicating an upward trend of 2.79%. This increase was driven by a surge in demand for Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) in various applications, particularly in the production of plastics and chemicals. Enhanced production processes and technological advancements in refining also played a crucial role in meeting the rising demand. Furthermore, supply chain improvements and strategic stockpiling ahead of seasonal demand peaks contributed to this price rise. Globally, Naphtha market fluctuations were influenced by factors such as geopolitical tensions and economic recovery in key consumer regions.
In Q1 2024, the global Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) market observed a bearish trend, particularly in the UAE, where FOB Jebel Ali prices were reported at USD 611.65/MT, reflecting a decline of 0.59% from the previous quarter. The downturn in Naphtha prices was influenced by factors such as lower demand in the petrochemical sector and reduced activity in refining processes. Additionally, fluctuations in crude oil prices and seasonal variations in demand contributed to this stabilization. Despite these challenges, the overall market was characterized by a cautious optimism as producers adjusted their strategies in response to changing economic conditions.
In Q1 2025, the Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) market in CIF Nhava Sheva witnessed a slight stabilization, with average prices easing to $691/MT, marking a 1.44% decline from Q4 2024. The softening trend came as the post-festival demand moderated, and consumption in packaging and fuel blending sectors normalized. However, steady operations in core downstream industries like petrochemicals and fertilizers prevented any major correction. Improved port activity, smoother import arrivals, and controlled refinery output helped maintain balance in the market. Overall, Q1 2025 opened with a relatively stable tone, reflecting seasonal adjustments and consistent domestic supply.
In Q4 2024, Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) prices in CIF Nhava Sheva rose further to $701/MT, showing a 6.11% increase from Q3. This was mainly due to strong festive season demand, particularly from packaging, consumer goods, and petrochemical sectors. The surge in industrial output during Diwali and year-end manufacturing cycles boosted consumption across multiple downstream industries. At the same time, global shipping challenges and firming crude prices added pressure on import costs. Indian refiners also adjusted output strategies to prioritize other fuel streams, slightly lowering domestic (Paraffin Grade) availability, which tightened the market and supported higher price levels.
In Q3 2024, the Indian Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) market maintained its upward momentum, with prices of CIF Nhava Sheva rising to $661/MT, reflecting a 4.52% increase over the previous quarter. This growth was largely driven by higher consumption in fertilizer and chemical manufacturing units, which ramped up production during the monsoon season. Though rainfall disrupted logistics in some regions, it also resulted in tightened local supply, causing a mild build-up in regional prices. Additionally, delays in overseas shipments and higher global freight charges impacted the availability of imported cargoes, prompting domestic buyers to rely more on locally sourced Naphtha (Paraffin Grade), further supporting the Naphtha price hike.
In Q2 2024, Naphtha prices in CIF Nhava Sheva increased slightly to $627/MT, showing a 2.12% rise from Q1. The improvement was supported by a pickup in petrochemical production, as steam crackers resumed higher run rates following routine maintenance. Demand for Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) also rose in the fuel blending sector due to pre-monsoon stocking, especially by coastal refineries. On the global front, moderate recovery in crude oil prices and stable imports played a role in the upward movement. Domestic factors such as increased packaging demand ahead of seasonal festivals and a more active industrial cycle added to the positive sentiment in the Naphtha market.
In Q1 2024, the Naphtha (Paraffin Grade) market in India observed a slight stabilization, with average Naphtha prices of CIF Nhava Sheva settling at $614/MT, reflecting a 3.46% drop compared to the previous quarter. This downward trend was primarily driven by reduced buying activity from domestic petrochemical plants and a slight dip in demand from the refining and blending sectors. The post-winter slowdown in industrial operations, especially in sectors like fertilizers and plastics, contributed to lower consumption levels. Additionally, the market experienced an abundant supply, as domestic refineries operated at consistent levels and import volumes remained steady, keeping pressure on prices during the early months of the year.
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These events highlight Naphtha’s sensitivity to global disruptions, underscoring the need for close monitoring of market trends and geopolitical influences.
This includes shifts in manufacturing bases, trade regulations, and environmental policies impacting consumption.
This methodology ensures that Price-Watch delivers accurate, timely, and actionable Naphtha pricing assessments, empowering our clients to stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions.
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Naphtha is a versatile, liquid hydrocarbon product derived from crude oil and is widely used in the petrochemical industry. Known for its high flammability and ease of conversion, Naphtha is essential as a feedstock in producing ethylene, propylene, and other critical petrochemicals. These derivatives are the building blocks for a wide range of products, including plastics, synthetic Fibers, and resins. Additionally, Naphtha is used in the refining industry for gasoline blending, enhancing fuel performance. Its adaptability and role in producing essential materials make Naphtha a key component in various industrial applications.
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 | Solvent Grade (Light) | Paraffin Grade |
Boiling Point (°C) | 40-80 | 40-80 |
Physical State | Liquid | Liquid |
Appearance | Dark straw color to colorless liquid. | Saybolt |
VAPOUR PRESSURE at 35 °C mm/Hg | 758 – 896 h Pa at 20 °C (68 °F) | – |
VAPOUR DENSITY (AIR= 1) | 2.5 | – |
SOLUBILITY IN H2O at 30 °C | Negligible | – |
SPECIFIC GRAVITY (H2O=1) | 0.97 | – |
Density @ 15 deg. C, kg / m3, Max | – | 700 |
Total Paraffins, % by Vol, Max | – | 60-65 |
Sulphur Total, ppm w, Max | – | 650 |
Olefins, % by Volume, Max | – | 1 |
Aromatics, % by Volume | – | 10 to 12 |
Naphthenes, % by Vol, Max | – | By Balance |
Applications
Naphtha is primarily used as a feedstock in the petrochemical industry to produce key chemicals, including Ethylene, Propylene, and Butadiene. These chemicals are essential for manufacturing a wide range of products, such as plastics, synthetic Fibers, and resins. Additionally, Naphtha plays a crucial role in gasoline blending, improving fuel quality and performance. Its versatility and usefulness as an intermediate make Naphtha vital for multiple industrial applications.
Naphtha prices are influenced by several key factors, including crude oil price fluctuations, demand from the petrochemical industry, and seasonal changes. Additionally, geopolitical events, supply chain disruptions, and feedstock availability can impact Naphtha pricing. Monitoring these variables closely is essential for procurement teams aiming to anticipate price trends and optimize costs.
As Naphtha is a petroleum-based product, its pricing is heavily tied to crude oil costs. When crude oil prices rise due to production cuts or supply issues, Naphtha prices tend to increase. Conversely, a drop in crude oil prices can lead to more affordable Naphtha. Procurement heads should keep a close watch on crude oil market developments to manage Naphtha sourcing effectively.
Naphtha prices can vary by region due to factors like refining capacities, regional demand, and transportation costs. For instance, regions with significant petrochemical production may have more competitive Naphtha prices due to higher local demand. Procurement teams can leverage these differences by diversifying sourcing locations and exploring cost-effective options in markets with favorable pricing.
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