In Q1 2025, prices saw a further marginal rise of 0.82%, reaching USD 614/MT. This increase came despite seasonal production slowdowns around the Lunar New Year, as downstream buyers resumed activity in the second half of the quarter. Feedstock methanol prices remained relatively firm, contributing to steady cost support. Additionally, modest recovery in demand from the agrochemical sector and anticipation of tighter supply in the upcoming months prompted slight upward revisions in pricing. The market sentiment was cautiously optimistic heading into Q2 2025.
Paraformaldehyde prices increased modestly by 2.01% in Q4 2024, closing at USD 609/MT. The rise was attributed to restocking activity by downstream sectors ahead of year-end holidays and marginal improvements in export demand. There was also a slight rebound in methanol feedstock prices, which nudged up production costs. Although domestic demand remained conservative, especially from the coatings and adhesives sectors, the combination of tightened plant operations and limited imports provided some upward momentum in pricing.
Prices dipped by 2.45% in Q3 2024, dropping to USD 597/MT, amid sluggish downstream consumption and persistent supply-side pressure. While the third quarter is typically a stronger period for industrial activity, demand from formaldehyde-based resin producers remained weak due to slower growth in construction and wood panel industries. Additionally, stable-to-soft methanol prices helped lower production costs, giving suppliers more flexibility to reduce offers in an attempt to clear inventory and maintain market share.
In Q2 2024, Paraformaldehyde prices edged up slightly by 1.49%, reaching USD 612/MT, as industrial operations normalized post-holiday. The uptick in prices was supported by moderate recovery in demand from the construction and agrochemical industries, particularly with the onset of planting season boosting fertilizer and pesticide production. However, gains were limited as methanol prices remained stable and supply in the domestic market was sufficient. Sellers maintained competitive pricing to stimulate demand amid cautious buying sentiment.
Prices fell by 6.22% in Q1 2024, settling at USD 603/MT, mainly due to reduced industrial activity following the Lunar New Year holidays. Downstream demand from the resin and adhesives sectors remained subdued during most of the quarter, while falling methanol feedstock costs further dragged down production costs. Additionally, high inventories from Q4 2023, coupled with weak export inquiries, contributed to downward pricing pressure. Overall, the quarter reflected a bearish trend driven by seasonal and market-specific slowdowns.
Prices continued their upward trajectory in Q1 2025, rising by 5.22% to USD 806/MT. The sharpest increase in the observed period was driven by a combination of tightening supply from Spain due to energy-related production constraints and increased Indian demand post-Holi and fiscal year-end restocking. Additionally, higher methanol feedstock costs and rising freight charges on European routes added further upward pressure. Importers faced limited room to negotiate, as consistent demand from resin and coatings industries kept the market firm throughout the quarter.
Indian import prices for Paraformaldehyde from Spain rose further by 2.41%, settling at USD 766/MT in Q4 2024. This increase was supported by sustained demand from the wood panel and agrochemical industries, particularly as buyers aimed to secure inventories before the year-end holidays. Limited availability from European suppliers, coupled with seasonal freight rate adjustments, contributed to firm pricing. Despite a typical year-end slowdown in industrial activity, suppliers remained firm on offers amid balanced demand and stable production costs.
Prices recovered by 1.77%, reaching USD 748/MT in Q3 2024, supported by improved demand from resin producers and the adhesives industry. Construction activity in India picked up pace with the end of the monsoon season, leading to greater offtake from allied sectors. On the supply side, minor disruptions in Europe due to plant maintenance in certain regions caused a slight tightening in export availability, which helped push prices upward. Despite stable feedstock costs, sellers leveraged tighter supply to hold firmer offers.
In Q2 2024, prices corrected downward by 2.78%, falling to USD 735/MT, as demand from the Indian downstream sector weakened slightly amid rising local competition and stable domestic production. Imports were further pressured by a drop in methanol prices, which softened cost structures for European manufacturers. Additionally, ample inventory levels in Indian ports and muted buying from the agrochemical sector, due to erratic monsoon forecasts, contributed to restrained procurement activity, leading to a mild bearish outlook during this quarter.
Prices edged up by 2.16%, reaching USD 756/MT in Q1 2024. This modest increase was mainly attributed to improved procurement activity in India following the holiday season and restocking needs across sectors like construction chemicals and plywood resins. Although demand remained moderate, rising methanol costs in Europe and slight logistical delays due to port congestion impacted pricing on the supply side. The Indian market also saw some seasonal firming in industrial output, which translated to cautious but steady demand for imported Paraformaldehyde.
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These events underscore the Paraformaldehyde market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
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Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Paraformaldehyde is a white, powdery polymer formed by the polymerization of formaldehyde. It possesses a pungent odour and serves as a convenient and stable source of formaldehyde for various applications. This solid form of formaldehyde is readily available and easily handled, making it a preferred choice in many industrial settings.
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 |
Purity (%) | 96, 92 |
Acidity (%) | <0.03 |
Melting Point | 120-175 |
Water Content | 9%±1%, 4%±1% |
Iron (%) | 0.001 |
pH | 5-8 |
Applications
Paraformaldehyde is primarily used as a fixative in biological laboratories to preserve tissue samples for microscopy. It cross-links proteins, maintaining cellular structure. Additionally, it plays a role in producing polymers, plastics, and adhesives, and serves as a disinfectant in healthcare settings. Its versatility also extends to synthesizing formaldehyde-based chemicals for various industrial applications.
The pricing of paraformaldehyde is influenced by several key factors, including raw material costs, production methods, and market demand. Fluctuations in the price of formaldehyde, from which paraformaldehyde is derived, can directly impact costs. Additionally, regional supply chain dynamics, regulatory changes, and competition among suppliers also play significant roles. It is essential for procurement heads to stay informed about these factors to make cost-effective purchasing decisions.
To identify the best suppliers for paraformaldehyde, procurement heads should consider several criteria: supplier reputation, pricing, quality control measures, and delivery reliability. Conducting market research and requesting quotes from multiple suppliers can provide valuable insights. Additionally, checking reviews and testimonials, and assessing compliance with industry standards can help in selecting suppliers who offer competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
Paraformaldehyde is commonly used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, textiles, and resins. Its applications in disinfectants production, formaldehyde solutions, and as a laboratory reagent contribute to its demand, influencing pricing. Understanding these applications can help procurement heads forecast demand trends and negotiate better prices based on their specific usage needs. Engaging with suppliers who specialize in these applications can also provide more competitive pricing options.
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