Paraxylene Pricing Assessment

  • Commodity Pricing

paraxylene Markets Covered: 

beBelgium
brBrazil
cnChina
frFrance
deGermany
inIndia
idIndonesia
jpJapan
mxMexico
nlNetherlands
ptPortugal
saSaudi Arabia
sgSingapore
krKorea
esSpain
thThailand
usUnited States

paraxylene Markets Covered: 

Global paraxylene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

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. 

India paraxylene Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

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. 

paraxylene Parameters Covered: 

  • Crude Oil
  • Naphtha
  • Mixed Xylenes
  • South Korea
  • Singapore
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Netherlands
  • USA
  • Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA)
  • Polyester Products (Polyester Films (BOPET), PET Resins (Polyethylene Terephthalate))

paraxylene Parameters Covered: 

  • Crude Oil
  • Naphtha
  • Mixed Xylenes
  • South Korea
  • Singapore
  • Saudi Arabia
  • Netherlands
  • USA
  • Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA)
  • Polyester Products (Polyester Films (BOPET), PET Resins (Polyethylene Terephthalate))
  • India
  • China
  • Brazil
  • Portugal
  • Spain
  • Indonesia
  • Thailand
  • Mexico
  • Belgium
  • France
  • Germany

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's paraxylene 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 Paraxylene prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The ongoing conflict has disrupted supply chains and energy supplies, leading to increased production costs and global price volatility for paraxylene, particularly in Europe. 
  • Global Supply Chain Disruptions (2021): Following the COVID-19 pandemic, various logistical challenges, including shipping delays and port congestion, affected the availability of paraxylene, causing price spikes. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): Initially, demand for paraxylene dropped due to economic slowdowns. However, as the economy began to recover, demand surged, particularly for packaging materials, leading to price increases. 
  • Geopolitical Tensions (2018-2019): Trade disputes, particularly between the U.S. and China, created uncertainty and instability in the paraxylene market, impacting prices due to disrupted supply chains and changes in trade policies. 
  • Asian Demand Surge (2015-2017): Rapid growth in Asia, especially in countries like China and India, drove increased demand for paraxylene, particularly for polyester production, contributing to price rises during this period. 

 

These events underscore the paraxylene market’s sensitivity to global disruptions and highlight the importance of 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 for paraxylene. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major paraxylene production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire paraxylene supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., reformate, toluene) 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 paraxylene 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 earthquakes, on paraxylene production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the 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., textiles, plastics), to predict shifts in paraxylene demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global paraxylene 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 paraxylene 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 textiles, automotive, and packaging. 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 paraxylene 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 paraxylene 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 paraxylene pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

106.16 g/mol

CAS No

106-42-3

HS Code

29024300

Molecular Formula

C8H10
paraxylene

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

Drum (180 Kg) (Domestic), Tanker (Import-Export)

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (>99%)

Incoterms Used

FOB Port Of Singapore, FOB Jeddah, FOB Busan, FOB Houston, FD Antwerp, FD Rotterdam, FD Le Havre, FD Hamburg, Ex-Mumbai, CIF Sines (Saudi Arabia), CIF Shanghai (South Korea), CIF Santos (USA, South Korea), CIF Nhava Sheva (Singapore, Saudi Arabia), CIF Manzanillo (USA), CIF Laem Chabang (Singapore), CIF Jakarta (Singapore), CIF Houston (South Korea, Saudi Arabia), CIF Barcelona (Saudi Arabia)

Synonym

P-METHYLTOLUENE, BENZENE, P-DIMETHYL

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

15-20 MT (Domestic), 25-30 (Import-Export)

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): 

  • The primary application of paraxylene is in the production of PTA, which is a key raw material for manufacturing polyethylene terephthalate (PET). PET is used in making plastic bottles, packaging materials, and polyester fibers. 

Polyester Fibers and Fabrics: 

  • Paraxylene, via PTA, is essential in the production of polyester fibers and fabrics. Polyester is widely used in the textile industry to manufacture clothing, home furnishings (such as curtains and upholstery), and industrial fabrics. 

Polyester Resin Production: 

  • PET resins, derived from paraxylene, are extensively used in the production of plastic films, containers, and packaging materials due to their durability, flexibility, and recyclability. 

Plastic Packaging: 

  • PET, made from paraxylene, is commonly used for food and beverage containers, particularly plastic bottles for soft drinks, water, and other beverages. The clear, strong, and lightweight properties of PET make it ideal for packaging. 

Engineering Plastics: 

  • Paraxylene derivatives are also used in the production of high-performance plastics that are used in various engineering applications, such as automotive components, electronics, and other industrial equipment. 
Paraxylene 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 paraxylene. 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 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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