During Q1 2025, South Korea’s Paraxylene prices registered a favorable trend, reaching USD 835/MT, reflecting an increase of +2.71%. This expansion was prompted by a consistent demand from main industries, like the textile, automotive, and chemical industries, which employ Paraxylene to produce different goods, including polyester fibres and films. The upward trend in the first quarter indicated the ongoing strength in these industries and the relatively stable availability of Paraxylene. Notwithstanding some of the challenges, like volatility in feedstock prices, the market as a whole was well balanced with supply meeting the ongoing demand from end-user industries.
By Q4 2024, Paraxylene prices in South Korea decreased to USD 813/MT, with a drop of -7.61% from Q3 2024. This drop was due to the worldwide market’s correction, with ample supply of Paraxylene and a slight moderation in demand from major industries such as textiles and packaging. Although the chemical and automotive sectors continued to register stable demand, general consumption of Paraxylene softened as a result of the seasonal lull and a worldwide reduction in polyester manufacturing. The decline in price indicated the industry’s reaction to such trends, combined with stabilization in feedstock costs.
In Q3 2024, the Paraxylene market saw a sharp drop in Paraxylene prices, with levels recorded at USD 880/MT, decreasing by -10.20% from Q2 2024. This was mainly because of the high availability in the market, which overshadowed demand from major sectors like the textile and automotive industries. While demand from these industries was pretty much constant, the oversupply of Paraxylene caused the price to go down slightly. The worldwide move towards cleaner and more efficient manufacturing processes also fueled the price decrease, as most manufacturers concentrated on streamlining their processes, lessening their consumption of some petrochemicals such as Paraxylene.
In Q2 2024, South Korea Paraxylene prices recorded a negative trend with a drop to $1010/MT, down -0.33% from Q1. This peripheral decrease was aided by a cyclical oversupply in the marketplace, as numerous manufacturers increased their capacity to produce to satisfy expected downstream polyester market demand. This weakened demand for Paraxylene in the Chinese and Indian textile sectors, on the other hand, caused a slackening in prices. World-wide, oil prices experienced a tempering within this timeframe that added to Paraxylene prices stabilization. In India and Japan, the same trends were noted, with minor variations based on regional demand and refining operations.
During Q1 2024, the world Paraxylene market experienced an increase-stabilized trend, with South Korea, being a key player in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, witnessing significant growth. South Korean prices stood at $1015/MT, registering a modest +0.66% growth from the last quarter. This mild rise was largely caused by increased demand for polyester production, as Paraxylene is a principal raw material employed in the production of purified terephthalic acid (PTA), which is used to produce polyester fibers. The recovery of the textile and packaging industries also boosted the demand. Furthermore, supply chain disruption from geopolitical tensions and unstable crude oil prices imposed upward pressure on production cost, hence causing the price stability at this time.
By Q1 2025, Indian Paraxylene prices fell to $1632.08/MT, down by 6.49% from Q4. This was a correction due to reduced downstream activity following the festive season, combined with over-supply in local and regional markets. Export demand for Indian polyester goods also experienced a short-term decline due to off-season purchases in overseas markets. Also, declining crude oil prices and relaxing freight levels helped soften raw material costs, affecting a bearish tone in the Indian PX market.
In Q4 2024, Paraxylene prices kept their upward journey, though modestly, with prices averaging $1745.36/MT, up 0.28% sequentially in Q3. Demand continued to be healthy from the polyester segment as Diwali and year-end celebrations boosted greater consumption of textiles and packaging materials. Nonetheless, massive inventory accumulation during the last quarter and consistent supply prevented any steep price acceleration. Input cost pressures were minimal since crude oil prices stabilized worldwide, resulting in stable cost conditions for the aromatics chain.
During Q3 2024, the market made a recovery by increasing the prices to $1740.42/MT from the earlier quarter, marking an increase of 1.01%. The improvement was mostly triggered by better downstream PTA production in India, with the textile mills pre-pumping capacities during the run-up to the festival season. There was enhanced demand within the domestic market for polyester film and fibers, as manufacturers ordered packaging and apparel at an increased scale. In addition, some production slowdowns in Southeast Asia on maintenance shutdowns slightly tightened regional supply, backing this modest price increase in the Indian market.
Entering Q2 2024, Indian Paraxylene prices were flat at approximately $1722.96/MT and displayed negligible variation from Q1. This was underpinned by even supply and demand conditions in the local market. Although downstream polyester yarns and textiles exports recorded a slight increase in anticipation of summer demand in the US and Europe, the local consumption rate was modest. Paraxylene supply continued to be sufficient, and upstream Naphtha and Mixed Xylene price action was stable, having no significant cost push or pull factor on PX pricing.
During Q1 2024, the Indian Paraxylene market experienced a stable trend with prices at an average level of $1723.02/MT, which was slightly down by 0.39% from the last quarter. The decline was primarily driven by weaker demand from the downstream Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA) industry, which recorded weaker offtake from the polyester producers due to mild season demand. Also, inventory levels were comfortable at major ports such as Mumbai, preventing price hikes. This notwithstanding, global sentiment remained confused with some support for prices from solid crude oil values and aromatic complex directions, though this did not feature prominently in Indian domestic pricing.
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These events underscore the paraxylene market’s sensitivity to global disruptions and highlight the importance of continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.
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Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Paraxylene is also known as PX or P-Xylene. Para xylene is a colourless, flammable liquid that has a sweet odour. Paraxylene is primarily used as a basic raw material in the manufacture of purified terephthalic acid (PTA). PTA and MEG produce polyethylene terephthalate (PET) saturated polyester polymers.
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.
Properties | Specification |
Appearance (Clarity) | Clear |
Appearance (Colour) | Colourless |
Appearance (Form) | Liquid |
Assay (GC) | Min. 99% |
Refractive Index (20°C) | 1.495-1.497 |
Density (g/ml) @ 20°C | 0.859-0.861 |
Boiling Range | 137-139 °C |
Applications
Paraxylene (PX) is an aromatic hydrocarbon widely used in the petrochemical industry due to its key role in producing various important materials. The major applications of paraxylene include:
Production of Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA):
Polyester Fibers and Fabrics:
Polyester Resin Production:
Plastic Packaging:
Engineering Plastics:
The price of Paraxylene is influenced by several key factors, including crude oil prices, supply and demand dynamics, production costs, and geopolitical tensions. Fluctuations in feedstock prices, particularly for naphtha and toluene, also play a significant role. Additionally, market demand from end-use industries such as textiles, plastics, and automotive can create upward or downward pressure on prices. Staying informed about these factors can help procurement heads make better purchasing decisions.
To predict future Paraxylene price trends, it’s essential to monitor market reports and analyses from reputable sources. Factors such as global economic conditions, changes in oil prices, and shifts in manufacturing demand must be considered. Utilizing pricing models that account for historical data, current market dynamics, and future supply forecasts can also aid in making informed predictions. Collaborating with market experts and subscribing to analytics services can provide valuable insights for procurement strategies.
To manage paraxylene price volatility, procurement heads can adopt several strategies. First, consider establishing long-term contracts with suppliers to lock in prices and ensure stable supply. Diversifying sourcing options can also mitigate risks associated with single suppliers. Additionally, keeping an eye on market trends and adjusting procurement schedules based on price forecasts can help optimize purchasing decisions. Finally, engaging in strategic stockpiling during lower price periods can provide a buffer against future price increases.
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