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Pricing History
Methodology
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Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC: 12352100

ortho nitro toluene Price Trends by Country

inIndia
jpJapan
deGermany
krSouth Korea

ortho nitro toluene Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India ortho nitro toluene market price trend
  • Southern India ortho nitro toluene market price trend
  • Central India ortho nitro toluene market price trend

Global ortho nitro toluene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Ortho Nitro Toluene prices averaged USD 1519.58 per metric ton on a CIF Hamburg basis. This marked a quarterly decline of -4.55% as demand from European dye intermediates and agrochemical manufacturers remained slow. The ONT price trend weakened under pressure from high inventory levels and cautious offtake from German importers. Ample availability from India, paired with steady production, led to increased supply in Northwest Europe.

Margins remained compressed as sellers faced stiff competition from domestic and overseas sources. Input costs were mostly stable, with upstream toluene showing minimal fluctuation during the quarter. Freight rates on India–Europe routes remained steady, contributing little to cost relief. The ONT price chart reflected a gradual softening, with no major recovery phases observed. Overall, the Ortho Nitro Toluene market in Europe stayed moderately bearish due to oversupply and thin consumption growth.

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Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Ortho Nitro Toluene prices averaged USD 1519.58 per metric ton on a CIF Hamburg basis. This marked a quarterly decline of -4.55% as demand from European dye intermediates and agrochemical manufacturers remained slow. The ONT price trend weakened under pressure from high inventory levels and cautious offtake from German importers. Ample availability from India, paired with steady production, led to increased supply in Northwest Europe.

Margins remained compressed as sellers faced stiff competition from domestic and overseas sources. Input costs were mostly stable, with upstream toluene showing minimal fluctuation during the quarter. Freight rates on India–Europe routes remained steady, contributing little to cost relief. The ONT price chart reflected a gradual softening, with no major recovery phases observed. Overall, the Ortho Nitro Toluene market in Europe stayed moderately bearish due to oversupply and thin consumption growth. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

At the onset of Q1 2025, the market experienced a more pronounced decline. Prices of ONT Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Hamburg came down to USD 1592/MT, down –8.06% from the previous quarter. Weak demand from key sectors like dyes and agrochemicals has remained a major factor.

Some buyers held back on new orders due to high inventories and uncertain market signals. At the same time, increased availability of cheaper imports in Europe put additional pressure on local prices. Despite the decline, Germany’s manufacturing capacity remained stable, ensuring uninterrupted supply to both domestic and regional markets. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the market turned downward, with prices of ONT Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Hamburg falling to USD 1732/MT, showing –4.94% decline from Q3. This was mainly due to reduced buying interest from end-users, especially as many industries slowed operations toward the year-end.

A buildup of inventories in some regions also contributed to the price drop. Additionally, a decline in global feedstock costs led to reduced production expenses. Even so, German producers kept supply in check, and exports moved steadily without facing any significant barriers. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, prices continued to rise modestly, reaching USD 1822/MT for ONT Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Hamburg up +1.58% from the previous quarter. Demand remained steady from downstream sectors, especially for fine chemicals and intermediates used in the pharmaceutical industry.

Though the pace of buying was not aggressive, consistent orders kept the market balanced. There were also occasional delays in raw material shipments, which made suppliers slightly cautious with pricing. Production across Germany remained steady, and logistics operated without major delays. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, prices saw a slight improvement, rising to USD 1793/MT for ONT Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Hamburg, a +1.41% increase from Q1 2024. Some seasonal recovery in demand was observed, especially from the agricultural chemical and pigment industries. Manufacturers increased procurement to rebuild their inventories.

Also, some maintenance shutdowns at nearby production facilities reduced the availability of Ortho Nitro Toluene in the regional market, supporting a gradual price rise. However, overall activity remained stable without any major supply disruptions. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, the Ortho Nitro Toluene market in Germany faced a mild decline. Prices of ONT Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Hamburg averaged USD 1768/MT, down –6.52% from the previous quarter. This drop happened because demand from the dye and pharmaceutical sectors softened slightly after strong activity at the end of 2023.

At the same time, a few buyers delayed their orders, waiting for better price offers. On the supply side, production levels stayed normal, but lower feedstock costs added to the downward pressure on prices. 

India ortho nitro toluene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, the ONT market experienced a drastic price fall. Prices of Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Nhava Sheva dropped to USD 1492.12 per metric ton, a precipitous –13.02% drop from Q4 2024. This was because demand from all key downstream industries, especially agrochemicals and dyes, was weak during this period when the market entered a lean phase.

Import volume rose, and some domestic producers discounted to dispose of old stocks, putting additional pressure. Market sentiment remained subdued, with ongoing production leading to a supply-demand mismatch that significantly impacted prices. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Ortho Nitro Toluene prices in India averaged USD 1437.30 per metric ton FOB Nhava Sheva. This represented a decline of -4.48% compared to the previous quarter. The ONT market faced slower offtake from downstream dyes, pigments, and pharmaceutical applications, especially during the early part of the quarter.

Despite reduced demand, plant operating rates remained steady, leading to oversupply in the domestic market. The ONT price trend slipped as buying interest stayed subdued, especially from bulk end-users. Input material Toluene remained rangebound, providing little room for upward cost pressure.

Seasonal slowdown and pre-monsoon stock adjustments further dampened sentiment. The ONT price chart for Q2 depicted a stable but downward-sloping trajectory. Overall, the Indian ONT market in Q2 remained under pressure from abundant supply and cautious buying. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, India’s Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) market witnessed a definite price fall. Prices of Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Nhava Sheva settled at USD 1647.11 per metric ton, registering a –10.95% fall from the last quarter. The primary cause of this decline was lower demand from the agrochemical and dye industries.

Most downstream plants held inventory from the close of 2023, which reduced fresh buying. Besides, the supply of lower-priced imported ONT and consistent feedstock supply kept the local market in tension, driving the prices down. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

During Q2 2024, India ONT prices for Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Nhava Sheva staged a slight comeback and rose to USD 1658.95 per metric ton, a paltry increase of +0.72% compared to Q1 2024. The growth was primarily on account of better demand from the textile dyeing and pigment industries as summer season fabric production picked up.

Agrochemical firms also started stock replenishment ahead of the monsoon crop season. On the supply side, production leveled off, while the modest tightness in inventories and purchasing activity assisted the market to come up slightly. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

By Q3 2024, prices of Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Nhava Sheva fell again to USD 1632.06 per metric ton, -1.62% on Q2. This was largely because of a tapering in agrochemical consumption following the end of the high application period.

Export activity was also subdued with weakening global demand. While local production held at regular levels, the market grappled with larger inventory levels and weaker offtake. As a result, prices continued to face moderate downward pressure throughout the quarter. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, ONT prices for Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Nhava Sheva recovered at USD 1715.48 per metric ton, a +5.11% increase over Q3. This was driven by a resurgence in the dye and chemical sectors as they prepared for year-end orders and exports. The pharmacy sector also improved in consumption, contributing to the demand base.

Raw materials such as toluene and nitric acid slightly improved, pushing production costs higher. This, in addition to greater offtake and programmed plant turnarounds, backed increased ONT prices. 

Global ortho nitro toluene Supply Chain

Upstream
Downstream
  • Dyes and Pigments
  • Agrochemicals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Rubber Chemicals
  • Explosives
  • Chemical synthesis
Major supplying countries
  •  India 
Major importing countries
  • Japan
  • Germany
  • South Korea

India ortho nitro toluene Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Toluene
  • Nitric Acid
  • Sulfuric Acid
Downstream
  • Dyes and Pigments
  • Agrochemicals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Rubber Chemicals
  • Explosives
  • Chemical synthesis
Major supplying countries
  •  India 
Major importing countries
  • Japan
  • Germany
  • South Korea

Technical Specifications of Ortho Nitro Toluene Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

137.14 g/mol

CAS No

88-72-2

HS Code

29042090

Molecular Formula

C₇H₇NO₂
ortho nitro toluene

Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) is a pale yellow, oily liquid with an aromatic odor, primarily used as an industrial chemical intermediate. It is an important raw material in the production of dyes, pigments, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. ONT is produced by the nitration of toluene, using a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids. It plays a vital role in the manufacture of azo dyes, pesticide intermediates, and rubber chemicals, making it essential in the textile, agriculture, and specialty chemical industries.

Packaging Type

Tanker (Export-Import)

Ortho Nitro Toluene Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (99%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Nhava Sheva, CIF Hamburg, CIF Busan, CIF Niigata.

Synonym

o-Nitrotoluene, 2-Nitrotoluene

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Physical Properties 
Density  1.163 g/cm³ @ 20 °C 
Flash point  88 °C (Closed Cup) 
Boiling point  222 °C 
Vapor pressure  0.03 kPa @ 25 °C 
Appearance  Yellow oily liquid with an aromatic odor 

Ortho Nitro Toluene Industrial Applications

Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) is mainly used as an essential chemical intermediate in the production of dyes, pigments, and agrochemicals. It serves as a key raw material for manufacturing azo dyes, which are widely used in the textile and printing industries. ONT is also important in the synthesis of pesticides and herbicides, playing a critical role in crop protection formulations. Additionally, it is used in the production of pharmaceuticals, especially for creating intermediates in drug manufacturing. Its strong nitrating and electron-withdrawing properties make it valuable in specialty chemical production, including rubber accelerators and photographic chemicals. 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Ortho Nitro Toluene prices

  • India–China Chemical Import Restrictions (March 2024): In March 2024, India introduced stricter regulations and customs checks on chemical imports from China, including key intermediates like Ortho Nitro Toluene. This move came as part of efforts to support domestic manufacturing and reduce dependency on foreign suppliers. The restrictions led to a drop in import volumes, causing supply tightness in the Indian market. As demand from dyes and agrochemical sectors stayed strong, ONT prices surged due to limited availability. 
  • Monsoon Disruption & Flooding in Maharashtra (July 2022): Heavy monsoon rains and severe flooding in major industrial regions of Maharashtra in mid-2022 led to temporary shutdowns of several chemical manufacturing units. Many ONT producers had to halt operations due to waterlogging and disrupted logistics. This supply interruption came during the high-demand season for agrochemical applications, pushing ONT prices sharply upward across the western and central regions of India. 
  • Global Nitric Acid Shortage (2021): A global shortage of nitric acid in 2021—driven by plant maintenance turnarounds and rising demand in fertilizers and explosives—affected the production of ONT, which relies on nitric acid as a key feedstock. Many ONT manufacturers struggled to maintain output, resulting in tighter supply. Prices increased globally, especially in Asia, as buyers scrambled for limited availability amidst growing downstream demand from dye and pharma sectors. 
  • COVID-19 Outbreak & Nationwide Lockdowns (2020): In 2020, the outbreak of COVID-19 and the resulting nationwide lockdowns across India led to major disruptions in ONT production and logistics. Several manufacturing units remained shut for months, and transportation restrictions delayed raw material movement. At the same time, downstream industries like dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals operated at reduced capacity. Prices initially dropped due to weak demand but later surged sharply as supply lagged behind recovery in demand post-lockdown. 
  • Environmental Compliance Crackdown in China (2019): China enforced stricter environmental norms in 2019, forcing many nitro compound and intermediate producers to reduce or suspend operations. Since India and other countries relied on Chinese exports for several ONT-related chemicals, the resulting supply disruption affected the global ONT chain. Prices rose sharply in Asian markets due to reduced imports and supply bottlenecks. 
  • Explosion at Gujarat Chemical Plant (2017): A major fire incident at a large chemical complex in Gujarat in late 2017 led to the shutdown of a key ONT production unit. The disruption significantly affected local supply, as the plant was one of the main producers for the western region. With downstream demand from agrochemicals and dyes remaining active, the sudden supply gap caused a notable price increase in the domestic market. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's ortho nitro toluene 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 gathers real-time pricing data from a wide range of reliable sources, including global chemical trading platforms, regional industry bulletins, and proprietary market databases. This helps ensure that our ONT price assessments reflect the most current and accurate market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our experts regularly collect direct insights from key market participants—such as ONT producers, chemical distributors, traders, and end-users in sectors like dyes, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. This local intelligence allows us to understand regional pricing behavior and market sentiment. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We monitor the entire ONT supply chain, covering upstream inputs like toluene and nitric acid, production activity, storage trends, and distribution logistics. By tracking feedstock availability and transportation updates, we provide a full picture of ONT supply dynamics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch closely tracks international trade developments, sanctions, and diplomatic shifts that impact ONT and its feedstocks. For example, import restrictions or trade frictions with key chemical-exporting nations like China have caused significant price changes in the past. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of regional climate disruptions—such as floods, monsoons, and heatwaves—on ONT production hubs. Events like factory shutdowns in Maharashtra due to heavy rains have historically disrupted supply and influenced market pricing. 
  • Economic Shifts: Our analysis includes macroeconomic indicators like industrial output, inflation, and changes in consumer demand. These factors affect ONT consumption in downstream industries such as dyes and agrochemicals, influencing market prices accordingly. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: PriceWatch maintains a comprehensive database of ONT manufacturing units across India and other key regions, tracking plant operations, maintenance schedules, and capacity utilization. This helps us evaluate the current ONT supply situation in real time. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes upcoming ONT facility expansions and technology upgrades that may enhance output. By monitoring announcements and construction timelines, we anticipate future supply trends and their effect on market balance. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: We examine ONT usage trends across its main application sectors—especially dyes, pesticides, and pharmaceutical intermediates. Yearly growth patterns and seasonal demand spikes are studied to provide a detailed picture of consumption dynamics. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: PriceWatch tracks regional demand differences and how shifts in global chemical consumption influence ONT pricing. This includes policy shifts, regulatory developments, and shifts in end-user industries across major markets like South Asia and Southeast Asia. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: We use robust pricing models that factor in real-time market data, historical price behavior, and expected industry movements to generate reliable ONT price assessments. These models are routinely optimized for higher precision. 
  • Scenario Analysis: Our analysts run simulations to explore different market outcomes under various situations. By studying best-case, worst-case, and expected-case scenarios, clients can prepare for uncertainties and plan ahead with confidence. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Clients receive detailed ONT market reports that include current price trends, historical comparisons, forward-looking insights, and key market developments. These reports are crafted to support strategic and procurement decisions. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch provides continuous updates and expert assistance to help clients stay informed. Our team is available for personalized guidance, trend analysis, and interpretation of key market movements to support client goals. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers accurate, timely, and actionable Ortho Nitro Toluene pricing assessments—helping you stay ahead of market shifts and make confident, informed decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

137.14 g/mol

CAS No

88-72-2

HS Code

29042090

Molecular Formula

C₇H₇NO₂
ortho nitro toluene

Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) is a pale yellow, oily liquid with an aromatic odor, primarily used as an industrial chemical intermediate. It is an important raw material in the production of dyes, pigments, agrochemicals, and pharmaceuticals. ONT is produced by the nitration of toluene, using a mixture of nitric and sulfuric acids. It plays a vital role in the manufacture of azo dyes, pesticide intermediates, and rubber chemicals, making it essential in the textile, agriculture, and specialty chemical industries.

Packaging Type

Tanker (Export-Import)

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (99%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Nhava Sheva, CIF Hamburg, CIF Busan, CIF Niigata.

Synonym

o-Nitrotoluene, 2-Nitrotoluene

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-30 MT

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.

Physical Properties 
Density  1.163 g/cm³ @ 20 °C 
Flash point  88 °C (Closed Cup) 
Boiling point  222 °C 
Vapor pressure  0.03 kPa @ 25 °C 
Appearance  Yellow oily liquid with an aromatic odor 

Applications

Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) is mainly used as an essential chemical intermediate in the production of dyes, pigments, and agrochemicals. It serves as a key raw material for manufacturing azo dyes, which are widely used in the textile and printing industries. ONT is also important in the synthesis of pesticides and herbicides, playing a critical role in crop protection formulations. Additionally, it is used in the production of pharmaceuticals, especially for creating intermediates in drug manufacturing. Its strong nitrating and electron-withdrawing properties make it valuable in specialty chemical production, including rubber accelerators and photographic chemicals. 

Ortho Nitro Toluene 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 ortho nitro toluene. 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 Ortho Nitro Toluene (ONT) is primarily influenced by the costs of key feedstocks, such as toluene and nitric acid, which are essential in its production. Supply-demand dynamics, plant operating rates, and production disruptions also significantly impact pricing. In addition, geopolitical factors, regulatory changes, and transportation costs can create market fluctuations. As ONT is a critical raw material in the production of dyes, pharmaceuticals, and agrochemicals, changes in demand from downstream industries, including the chemical and agricultural sectors, can further drive pricing trends.

Global shifts in supply and demand have a direct influence on ONT prices. Increased demand from industries such as dye manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, or agrochemicals can drive prices higher, especially during times of tight supply. Conversely, excess supply from new production capacities or decreased demand from downstream sectors—such as during economic recessions—can lead to price reductions. Procurement professionals must closely track global production levels, plant maintenance schedules, and demand forecasts to predict price movements and adjust purchasing strategies accordingly.

ONT pricing varies across regions due to differences in feedstock availability, production capacity, local demand patterns, and logistics costs. For example, regions with robust chemical manufacturing infrastructure, such as North America and Europe, may experience more stable pricing, whereas markets in Asia may see more volatility due to fluctuating demand from key industries like textiles and pharmaceuticals. Procurement teams should carefully analyze regional price trends, trade flows, and supplier networks to identify strategic sourcing opportunities, diversify suppliers, and minimize risks associated with regional price volatility or supply disruptions.

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