Paraformaldehyde Pricing Assessment
UNSPC: 12352100

  • Commodity Pricing

paraformaldehyde Markets Covered: 

cnChina
twTaiwan
esSpain
deGermany
inIndia
krKorea
ngNigeria
usUnited States

paraformaldehyde Markets Covered: 

Global paraformaldehyde Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

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. 

India paraformaldehyde Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

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. 

paraformaldehyde Parameters Covered: 

  • Formaldehyde
  • Methanol
  •  China
  •  Taiwan
  •  Spain
  • Adhesives and Coatings
  • Agrochemicals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Textiles
  • Oil and Gas
  • Germany
  • India
  • USA
  •  South Korea
  •  Nigeria

paraformaldehyde Parameters Covered: 

  • Formaldehyde
  • Methanol
  •  China
  •  Taiwan
  •  Spain
  • Adhesives and Coatings
  • Agrochemicals
  • Pharmaceuticals
  • Textiles
  • Oil and Gas
  • Germany
  • India
  • USA
  •  South Korea
  •  Nigeria

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's paraformaldehyde 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.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Paraformaldehyde prices

  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020-2021): The COVID-19 pandemic led to a massive global economic slowdown, resulting in supply chain disruptions, factory closures, and reduced industrial production. The reduced demand, combined with logistical challenges, caused Paraformaldehyde prices to plummet initially in 2020. However, as the economy began recovering in 2021, the increased demand caused a sharp rebound in prices
  • Geopolitical Instabilities (2019-2020): The instability in the Middle East, particularly affecting oil production and logistics, has caused disruptions in global supply chains, leading to price hikes. Tensions like the Iran sanctions and conflicts in the region during 2019-2020 played a critical role in increasing costs for feedstocks and downstream products, including Paraformaldehyde​.
  • Environmental Regulations and Plant Shutdowns (2017-2020): Stricter environmental policies, particularly in China, caused significant supply constraints in the Paraformaldehyde market. During 2017 and 2018, numerous Paraformaldehyde plants were shut down due to non-compliance with environmental laws, creating supply shortages and pushing prices up. This trend of tightening regulations continued into the early 2020s. 
  • Fluctuations in Methanol Prices (2018): As the primary feedstock for Paraformaldehyde, methanol price changes heavily influenced Paraformaldehyde costs. Sharp increases in methanol prices, such as during the 2018 oil price surge, led to corresponding hikes in Paraformaldehyde prices. Methanol prices also experienced volatility due to changes in oil prices, natural gas supply, and global demand.

 

These events underscore the Paraformaldehyde market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics. 

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major Paraformaldehyde production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Paraformaldehyde supply chain, from raw material availability to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact Paraformaldehyde prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on Paraformaldehyde production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging), to predict shifts in Paraformaldehyde demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global Paraformaldehyde production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming Paraformaldehyde production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global Paraformaldehyde pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast Paraformaldehyde prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Paraformaldehyde pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

30.03 

CAS No

30525-89-4

HS Code

29126000

Molecular Formula

OH(CH2O)nH(n=8-100)
paraformaldehyde

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

Bags

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (96%, 92% purity)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB Spain, FOB Germany, FOB Taiwan, CIF Houston (Origin-Spain), CIF Busan (Origin-China, Taiwan, Spain), CIF Apapa (Origin-China), CIF JNPT (Origin-Spain)

Synonym

Polyoxymethylene

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT (Global)

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. 

Paraformaldehyde price 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 paraformaldehyde. 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 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.

PriceWatch Login