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Propylene Carbonate Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352003
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âźł Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

propylene carbonate Price Trends by Country

cnChina
vnVietnam
trTurkey
inIndia

propylene carbonate Pricing Trends in India: 

  • Northern India propylene carbonate market price trend
  • Southern India propylene carbonate market price trend
  • Central India propylene carbonate market price trend

Global propylene carbonate Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

According to the PriceWatch, Propylene Carbonate prices declined to 737 USD per MT in China, marking a 2.12 % drop from Q1. The Propylene Carbonate Price Trend shifted slightly bearishly due to weaker sentiment in battery chemicals and coatings demand. The Propylene Carbonate Market in India softened as battery material buyers delayed procurement.

Vietnam reported reduced offtake due to seasonal slowdowns in manufacturing activity. TĂĽrkiye saw minor drops in imports as domestic inventory levels remained high. Propylene Carbonate prices faced downward pressure from sluggish inquiries. The Propylene Carbonate price index dipped slightly with fewer bulk orders seen from traditional buyers.

The Propylene Carbonate Price Chart reflected consistent price erosion through late April and May. Feedstock propylene oxide remained adequately available, offering producers flexibility. Chinese exporters adjusted quotes to maintain volume amid regional demand weakening. Overall, Q2 marked a price correction driven by seasonal demand softening and slower downstream performance in major importing countries. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, Propylene Carbonate prices declined to 737 USD per MT in China, marking a 2.12 % drop from Q1. The Propylene Carbonate Price Trend shifted slightly bearishly due to weaker sentiment in battery chemicals and coatings demand. The Propylene Carbonate Market in India softened as battery material buyers delayed procurement. Vietnam reported reduced offtake due to seasonal slowdowns in manufacturing activity.

TĂĽrkiye saw minor drops in imports as domestic inventory levels remained high. Propylene Carbonate prices faced downward pressure from sluggish inquiries. The Propylene Carbonate price index dipped slightly with fewer bulk orders seen from traditional buyers. The Propylene Carbonate Price Chart reflected consistent price erosion through late April and May.

Feedstock propylene oxide remained adequately available, offering producers flexibility. Chinese exporters adjusted quotes to maintain volume amid regional demand weakening. Overall, Q2 marked a price correction driven by seasonal demand softening and slower downstream performance in major importing countries. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

During Q1 2025, the international Propylene Carbonate market saw a significant downturn across all regions. China FOB prices dropped to $757/MT, reflecting a sharp 10.63% decrease compared to Q4 2024. The decline was driven by weaker demand from key end-use industries such as coatings and battery manufacturing, compounded by excess supply in the market.

Similarly, CIF Vietnam prices fell by 10.32%, reaching $808/MT, as regional markets faced subdued industrial activity and cautious purchasing from downstream sectors. CIF Türkiye prices also decreased by 8.02%, to $940/MT, influenced by slower demand from the automotive and electronics industries. Overall, the market sentiment remained negative, with buyers hesitating to commit to large purchases due to uncertainty in the economic outlook. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the market exhibited a modest decline, with China FOB prices falling to $847/MT, a 0.82% decrease compared to Q3 2024. CIF Vietnam prices dropped by 3.94%, to $901/MT, as regional demand weakened further, particularly in the automotive and coatings sectors.

On the other hand, CIF Turkey saw a significant drop of 5.02%, with prices reaching $1022/MT, as the Turkish market faced higher inventory levels and slower off-take, despite some resilience in other regional sectors. The market was under pressure from both weaker demand and continued logistical challenges, affecting price stability. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

During Q3 2024, China FOB prices were quoted at $854/MT, marking a 3.06% decrease from Q2 2024. CIF Vietnam prices decreased by 1.47%, to $938/MT, reflecting a slowdown in local manufacturing activity and a reduction in restocking efforts.

CIF Turkey prices rose modestly by 2.28%, reaching $1076/MT, supported by steady demand from specific industrial applications, particularly in the chemical and automotive sectors. Despite the slight improvement in Turkey, the overall market remained under pressure due to rising costs and logistical delays. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, the market saw a slight price recovery after the Q1 downturn. China FOB prices increased to $881/MT, reflecting a 2.32% rise compared to Q1 2024, as downstream demand stabilized, particularly in the electronics and coatings industries. CIF Vietnam prices rose by 2.92%, reaching $952/MT, bolstered by restocking activity in Southeast Asia and improved industrial activity. CIF Turkey prices rose by 3.75%, reaching $1052/MT, supported by strong demand from the automotive and chemical sectors. The market appeared to show signs of stabilization as demand in key industries helped offset some of the earlier downturns. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

During Q1 2024, the Propylene Carbonate market saw a relatively weaker start to the year. China FOB prices were recorded at $861/MT, reflecting a 5.18% decrease from the previous quarter. CIF Vietnam prices also declined by 0.64%, to $925/MT, influenced by slower manufacturing activity and cautious buying behavior in the region.

In contrast, CIF Turkey prices increased by 5.30%, reaching $1014/MT, due to continued demand from the automotive and coatings sectors, which helped cushion the overall decline. The market remained relatively stable in Turkey, while other regions faced challenges stemming from softer industrial demand and logistical constraints. 

India propylene carbonate Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2025

In Q1 2025, the Indian Propylene Carbonate market faced a clear downward trend. CIF India prices dropped sharply to INR 72,360/MT, registering a -7.46% decrease from the previous quarter. The decline was mainly due to weak post-festive industrial demand and oversupply in the market, especially from China, where export availability remained strong.

Indian buyers were conservative with procurement, relying on previously built-up inventories. Ex-Mumbai prices also declined, settling at INR 90,521/MT, down -2.71%, as distributors lowered prices to clear stock amidst low offtakes. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q2 2025, according to PriceWatch, Propylene Carbonate prices in India fell to 68,110 INR per MT on a CIF basis, reflecting a 5.87 % decline from Q1. Ex-Mumbai prices also dropped to 86,175 INR per MT, showing a 4.80 % quarter-on-quarter dip. The decline was largely attributed to seasonally weaker demand during monsoon, particularly from the coating and battery electrolyte sectors. Chinese suppliers reduced FOB offers to maintain competitiveness, reflecting lower regional offtake.

Inventory levels in India remained sufficient due to earlier stockpiling, which softened new imports. Mumbai-based distributors reported slower movement due to logistical delays caused by heavy rainfall. Feedstock prices in China stayed relatively flat, but a dip in procurement from Vietnam and TĂĽrkiye added bearish pressure to the export market.

Indian buyers adopted a cautious approach, aligning purchases with actual consumption rather than forecasts. Overall, Q2 showed a price correction phase shaped by monsoon-related seasonality and lower industrial activity.

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q1 2024

In Q1 2024, the market started off slightly bearish. CIF India prices dropped to INR 76,105/MT, showing a -1.55% decline from Q4 2023. Demand remained slow across industrial sectors following the New Year break, and Chinese suppliers maintained steady export flows despite minor port disruptions during Lunar New Year.

As a result, the Indian market remained well-stocked. Ex-Mumbai prices mirrored this softness, falling to INR 92,333/MT, down -4.11%, as local players avoided aggressive purchasing in a subdued demand environment. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2024

In Q2 2024, Propylene Carbonate prices saw a modest rise. CIF prices increased to INR 78,701/MT, showing a 3.41% gain from Q1. This was driven by restocking across key end-user industries, including electronics, automotive chemicals, and cleaning formulations.

Some firmness in Chinese domestic demand also reduced export supply, supporting higher prices. On the domestic front, Ex-Mumbai prices rose to INR 95,333/MT, up 3.25%, as traders passed on higher import costs and responded to slightly stronger buyer interest. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q3 2024

In Q3 2024, the market stabilized with minimal fluctuation. CIF India prices dipped to INR 77,931/MT, a -0.98% decrease over Q2. The monsoon season led to slower activity in the construction and coatings industries, which softened demand.

Meanwhile, there were no major constraints in supply from China, keeping availability steady. Ex-Mumbai prices remained nearly flat at INR 96,166/MT, reflecting a 0.87% increase, likely supported by steady local distribution and some delayed demand from earlier quarters. 

Propylene Carbonate Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In Q4 2024, the market saw limited price movement but began to soften. CIF prices edged up slightly to INR 78,191/MT, reflecting a 0.33% increase from Q3. While the Indian festive season boosted demand in sectors like coatings and packaging, overall purchase volumes were cautious due to comfortable inventory levels.

Freight rates remained stable, and imports from China continued without disruption. Meanwhile, Ex-Mumbai prices fell to INR 93,041/MT, marking a -3.25% dip, as sellers adjusted to match muted end-user demand despite the festive backdrop. 

Global propylene carbonate Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Propylene Oxide (PO)
  • Carbon Dioxide (COâ‚‚)
  • Catalysts
Downstream
  • Solvent in Coatings and Paints (Propylene carbonate is used as a solvent in paint, coatings, and varnish formulations due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances and its low toxicity.)
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care (In the cosmetic industry, it is used as a solvent for active ingredients in products such as creams, lotions, and perfumes, as well as in the formulation of nail polish removers.)
  • Cleaning and Degreasing (It serves as an effective cleaning agent in industrial degreasing, especially for removing oils and grease from metal surfaces.)
Major supplying countries
  • China 
Major importing countries
  • Vietnam
  • Turkey
  • India

India propylene carbonate Supply Chain

Upstream
  • Propylene Oxide (PO)
  • Carbon Dioxide (COâ‚‚)
  • Catalysts
Downstream
  • Solvent in Coatings and Paints (Propylene carbonate is used as a solvent in paint, coatings, and varnish formulations due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of substances and its low toxicity.)
  • Cosmetics and Personal Care (In the cosmetic industry, it is used as a solvent for active ingredients in products such as creams, lotions, and perfumes, as well as in the formulation of nail polish removers.)
  • Cleaning and Degreasing (It serves as an effective cleaning agent in industrial degreasing, especially for removing oils and grease from metal surfaces.)
Major supplying countries
  • China 
Major importing countries
  • Vietnam
  • Turkey
  • India

Technical Specifications of Propylene Carbonate Price Trends

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

102.09

CAS No

108-32-7

HS Code

29329900

Molecular Formula

C4H6O3
propylene carbonate

Propylene Carbonate is a versatile, colourless, and odourless liquid with a high polarity, making it an effective solvent in a wide range of industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and adhesives due to its ability to dissolve both organic and inorganic compounds. In the electronics and automotive industries, Propylene Carbonate is used in the production of lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors as a key component of electrolyte solutions. Additionally, it serves as a solvent in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and in cleaning agents. Propylene Carbonate is an eco-friendly alternative to more hazardous solvents, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious formulations.

Packaging Type

Drum (250 kg)

Propylene Carbonate Grades Covered

Industrial Grade Purity:>99.5%

Incoterms Used

FOB China, CIF India, CIF Vietnam, CIF Turkey.

Synonym

1,2-Propylene Carbonate

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT

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 

 
Appearance  

 

 Clear to pale yellow liquid 

 
Purity 

 

 ≥99.7% 

 
Water 

 

 ≤0.02% 

 
Specific Gravity @20/20°C  

 

 1.203-1.210 

 
Viscosity (CPS) @ 25°C (77°F)  

 

 2.4 

 
Distillation @ 760mm, Hg    IBP, min 

 

 195°C 

 
Density (pounds per gallon) at 20°C (68°F) 

 

 10.0 

 
Flash Point GT (SETA) °F  

 

 275° 

 

Propylene Carbonate Industrial Applications

Propylene Carbonate is primarily used as a solvent in various applications, including in the manufacture of paints, coatings, adhesives, and cleaning agents. It is also utilized in the production of lithium-ion batteries, where it acts as a solvent in electrolyte solutions. Additionally, Propylene Carbonate is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for drugs, in the cosmetics industry for formulations, and in industrial cleaning processes. Its high dielectric constant makes it useful in electrochemical applications, and it is also a key ingredient in some chemical synthesis processes. 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Propylene Carbonate prices

  • Geopolitical Tensions (2021–Present): The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea and the U.S.-China trade relations have occasionally disrupted production and shipment, driving up transportation and raw material costs. 
  • Surge in EV Production (2020–Present): With the rise in electric vehicle production, demand for propylene carbonate has increased due to its use in battery production, pushing prices higher in APAC. 
  • China’s Environmental Regulations (2019–Present): Stricter environmental policies in China have led to temporary shutdowns and capacity reductions, particularly in the chemical manufacturing sector. 
  • Typhoon Disruptions (2020–2021): Severe weather events in Southeast Asia disrupted chemical production, leading to short-term price fluctuations. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): While demand for industrial solvents initially dropped, a surge in the production of disinfectants and personal protective equipment (PPE) led to a temporary price spike. 
  • China-U.S. Trade War (2018–2019): Tariffs on chemicals and raw materials caused price volatility and disrupted supply chains for propylene carbonate in the APAC region. 

 

These events highlight the volatility of the propylene carbonate market and emphasize the need for constant monitoring of regional demand, geopolitical factors, and raw material prices to anticipate future price trends. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's propylene carbonate 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.

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: Price-Watch aggregates real-time pricing data from a wide range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures our assessments reflect the most current market conditions for propylene carbonate. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team collects insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major propylene carbonate production hubs. This on-the-ground intelligence is essential for understanding localized market dynamics and identifying emerging trends. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire propylene carbonate supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g., propylene oxide) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics to provide a comprehensive picture of the market. 

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: Price-Watch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts, trade disputes, or regional instability, which can directly influence propylene carbonate prices. Our analysis assesses the potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We evaluate the impact of natural disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, or severe weather events, on propylene carbonate production facilities, particularly in regions with high production capacity. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: Price-Watch tracks global economic trends, including economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, electronics, coatings). These factors help us predict shifts in propylene carbonate demand and the corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

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

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: Price-Watch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors such as automotive, electronics, personal care, and coatings. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on global economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and their impact on global propylene carbonate pricing. We monitor how shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations influence pricing and demand. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: Price-Watch employs advanced econometric models to forecast propylene carbonate prices, integrating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. These models are continuously refined to improve predictive accuracy and pricing foresight. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios. This helps our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes, from supply shortages to sudden price spikes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth market driver analysis. These reports are designed to be actionable, offering clear insights and recommendations tailored to your business needs. 
  • Ongoing Support: Price-Watch provides continuous updates and personalized support to clients, ensuring access to the most up-to-date information for informed decision-making. Our experts are always available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice based on evolving trends. 

This research methodology ensures that Price-Watch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable propylene carbonate pricing assessments, enabling our clients to stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

102.09

CAS No

108-32-7

HS Code

29329900

Molecular Formula

C4H6O3
propylene carbonate

Propylene Carbonate is a versatile, colourless, and odourless liquid with a high polarity, making it an effective solvent in a wide range of industrial applications. It is commonly used as a solvent in paints, coatings, and adhesives due to its ability to dissolve both organic and inorganic compounds. In the electronics and automotive industries, Propylene Carbonate is used in the production of lithium-ion batteries and supercapacitors as a key component of electrolyte solutions. Additionally, it serves as a solvent in the production of pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and in cleaning agents. Propylene Carbonate is an eco-friendly alternative to more hazardous solvents, making it a preferred choice for environmentally conscious formulations.

Packaging Type

Drum (250 kg)

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade Purity:>99.5%

Incoterms Used

FOB China, CIF India, CIF Vietnam, CIF Turkey.

Synonym

1,2-Propylene Carbonate

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT

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 

 
Appearance  

 

 Clear to pale yellow liquid 

 
Purity 

 

 ≥99.7% 

 
Water 

 

 ≤0.02% 

 
Specific Gravity @20/20°C  

 

 1.203-1.210 

 
Viscosity (CPS) @ 25°C (77°F)  

 

 2.4 

 
Distillation @ 760mm, Hg    IBP, min 

 

 195°C 

 
Density (pounds per gallon) at 20°C (68°F) 

 

 10.0 

 
Flash Point GT (SETA) °F  

 

 275° 

 

Applications

Propylene Carbonate is primarily used as a solvent in various applications, including in the manufacture of paints, coatings, adhesives, and cleaning agents. It is also utilized in the production of lithium-ion batteries, where it acts as a solvent in electrolyte solutions. Additionally, Propylene Carbonate is used in the pharmaceutical industry as a solvent for drugs, in the cosmetics industry for formulations, and in industrial cleaning processes. Its high dielectric constant makes it useful in electrochemical applications, and it is also a key ingredient in some chemical synthesis processes. 

Propylene Carbonate Market Price Trend 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 propylene carbonate. 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 Propylene Carbonate is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of propylene oxide, which is a primary raw material in its production. Additionally, fluctuations in global supply and demand for industries such as batteries (especially lithium-ion batteries), solvents, coatings, and personal care products play a significant role. Changes in crude oil prices and energy costs can also impact production expenses. Moreover, trade tariffs, regulatory changes, environmental standards, and logistical costs are external elements that contribute to variability in Propylene Carbonate pricing.

Regional production can have a substantial effect on Propylene Carbonate pricing. Regions with strong local production capabilities, such as Asia-Pacific, often have more competitive pricing due to proximity to raw material sources and lower transportation costs. In contrast, regions that rely heavily on imports, such as North America or Europe, may experience higher costs due to shipping fees, import duties, and potential supply chain disruptions. Local demand, especially from industries like battery manufacturing and cleaning products, can also impact pricing trends regionally.

The latest trend in Propylene Carbonate pricing has been influenced by the increasing demand in sectors like energy storage (for lithium-ion batteries) and the expansion of the green energy market. As raw material costs fluctuate, along with global supply chain disruptions, prices have seen upward pressure. To secure better rates, buyers can consider entering into long-term contracts with suppliers, monitoring fluctuations in propylene oxide prices, and exploring bulk purchasing options. Staying informed about industry-specific demand trends, particularly in battery technology and sustainable energy, can also help in securing competitive pricing.

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