phthalic anhydride Pricing Assessment

Markets Covered:

China

Taiwan

Korea

Belgium

Italy

United States

India

Phthalic Anhydride Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2024, the global market of Phthalic Anhydride (PA) experienced a decline in prices. In South Korea prices declined by approximately 13.8% in Q1 2024 compared to Q4 2023. One major reason was weak demand from downstream industries, such as plasticizers and resins, which are critical consumers of phthalic anhydride. Additionally, the decrease in the price of key raw materials like o-xylene, a primary feedstock for phthalic anhydride, further contributed to this downward trend. There was excess inventory buildup, particularly in countries like China, Korea, leading producers to lower their prices to clear stock. The situation was compounded by producers scaling back output due to excess storage and weak consumption from sectors like paints and coatings.

In Q2 2024, PA gained prices by approximately 4.7% from Q1 2024. After the decline in Q1 2024, demand from key downstream industries, such as construction, adhesives, coatings, and plastics, increased. Particularly in Asia, infrastructure development projects, especially in India and China, drove up the consumption of PA, leading to a price recovery. The economic environment improved slightly in Q2, especially in Asia, with inflation stabilizing and industrial activity picking up pace, which contributed to the increase in demand for PA.

Looking ahead for Q3, prices are expected to remain relatively stable but subject to upward pressure, particularly in regions with increased construction activities and rising demand for plasticizers. However, the market could face downward pressure if global economic uncertainties persist or if feedstock prices soften, especially in Asia, where the market is particularly sensitive to these variables.

For Q4 2024, phthalic anhydride (PA) prices are expected to rise compared to earlier in the year, influenced by several key factors. The gradual recovery in economic activity, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and Europe, is boosting demand for PA, which is widely used in plastics, paints, and coatings. This is especially true in sectors like automotive and construction, which are beginning to regain momentum.

Why ?

is your trusted resource for tracking global benzene price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the benzene market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With , you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence benzene prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely Lactic Acid market data.

Track ‘s benzene 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.

is your trusted resource for tracking global phthalic anhydride price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the phthalic anhydride market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With , you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence phthalic anhydride prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely phthalic anhydride market data.

Track 's phthalic anhydride 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 phthalic anhydride prices

2017-2018: Supply Chain Adjustments & Environmental Regulations

In 2017, stricter environmental regulations in China led to plant shutdowns and supply shortages. This caused temporary price spikes in PA due to reduced production capacity, particularly in Asia, which impacted the global market.

The impact was also felt in 2018 as China’s environmental crackdown continued, leading to volatile pricing as supply struggled to meet demand.

2020: COVID-19 Pandemic

The global pandemic caused a significant drop in PA demand as industries such as automotive, construction, and plastics experienced production slowdowns. In the early months of the pandemic, prices dropped due to reduced economic activity and oil price collapses. However, as countries began to ease restrictions and stimulate their economies, demand slowly recovered in the second half of 2020, stabilizing prices

2021: Post-Pandemic Recovery and Supply Chain Disruptions

In 2021, as global economies began recovering from the pandemic, PA prices saw a sharp increase due to surging demand from downstream industries (plastics, coatings) and supply chain disruptions. The cost of raw materials, like Ortho Xylene, surged due to logistical challenges, higher shipping costs, and production bottlenecks.

2023-2024: Fluctuating Feedstock Prices and Market Corrections

In 2023, PA prices saw a decline due to an oversupply of feedstock materials, coupled with sluggish demand from industries like plastics and construction. This trend continued into early 2024, but prices began recovering in Q2 and Q3 2024 as demand picked up and supply tightened.

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

Methodology and Specifications

phthalic anhydride Pricing Assessment Research Methodology

Data Collection and Sources

Real-Time Market Data: 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 PA production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics.

Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire PA 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: continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact PA 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 PA 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: evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging), to predict shifts in PA demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global PA 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 PA 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: 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 PA pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

Dynamic Pricing Models: utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast PA 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: 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 delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable PA pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

148.1

CAS No

85-44-9

HS Code

29173500

Molecular Formula

C₆H₄(CO)₂O

phthalic anhydride

Phthalic Anhydride (PA) is a white, crystalline organic compound widely used as a chemical intermediate in industrial applications. Derived from the oxidation of ortho-xylene or naphthalene, it is highly valued for its versatility in producing polymers, resins, and plasticizers.

Packaging Type

25 Kg Bags

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade ( ≥ ≥ 99.5%purity)

Incoterms Used

FOB Taiwan, FOB South Korea, FOB China, FOB Belgium, FOB Italy, CIF USA (South Korea), CIF USA(Italy), CIF India (Taiwan), CIF India (South Korea)

Synonym

Isobenzofuran-1,3-dione

Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT(Global), 10-15 MT(India)

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 (%)	99.5 min
Phthalic Acid (wt.%)	<0.50
Maleic Anhydride (wt.%)	<0.05
Solidification Point ( $℃)$	$\geq 130.8$
Molten Colour (APHA)	$\leq 20$
Heat Hazen Number (APHA)	$\leq 50$

Applications

Phthalic anhydride is widely used across various industries due to its versatility as a chemical intermediate. Its primary application is in the production of plasticizers, especially for polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which is used in making flexible plastics for cables, hoses, and packaging. It is also a key raw material in the manufacture of alkyd resins, which are used in paints, coatings, and varnishes. Additionally, phthalic anhydride is essential in the synthesis of unsaturated polyester resins, which are used in fiberglass-reinforced plastics, widely applied in automotive and construction materials. Other applications include the production of dyes, pigments, and flame retardants.

Disclaimer

Phthalic Anhydride price provided by 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 phthalic anhydride. 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.

Request a Price Watch Demo

Frequently asked questions

What are the key drivers of Phthalic Anhydride pricing in today's market? +

Phthalic Anhydride (PA) pricing is influenced by several key factors, including raw material costs, where fluctuations in crude oil prices directly impact the price of feedstocks like ortho-xylene, a petroleum derivative. Demand and supply dynamics also play a critical role, as increased demand from industries such as plastics, coatings, and adhesives can drive price hikes, particularly when supply is constrained. Additionally, stricter environmental regulations may impose higher compliance costs on manufacturers, further affecting pricing. Staying informed about these dynamics is essential for procurement heads to make strategic sourcing decisions.

How do geopolitical events impact Phthalic Anhydride pricing and availability? +

Geopolitical events significantly impact Phthalic Anhydride pricing and availability due to their effects on trade routes, raw material supply, and overall market stability. For instance, conflicts in oil-producing regions can disrupt crude oil supplies, leading to increased feedstock costs. Additionally, trade tariffs and sanctions may limit access to essential materials or finished products, causing price volatility. Procurement professionals should closely monitor geopolitical developments to anticipate potential disruptions and adjust sourcing strategies accordingly.

What strategies can be adopted to manage Phthalic Anhydride price fluctuations effectively? +

To manage price fluctuations in Phthalic Anhydride, companies can adopt strategies such as establishing long-term contracts with suppliers to ensure price stability and protection against market volatility. Diversifying suppliers across different regions helps mitigate risks from supply chain disruptions or regional price spikes. Additionally, regular market monitoring and analysis enable procurement teams to make informed decisions about purchase timing and negotiate favorable terms, ensuring cost efficiency and supply security.