China
India
Taiwan
Vietnam
Turkey
Brazil
PhilippinesIn Q1 2025, the propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PM) market in the Asia-Pacific region saw a 1% price increase, driven by economic recovery and improved supply chain stability. The availability of feedstock materials continued to shape market trends, alongside evolving demand patterns across industries.Â
According to the PriceWatch, PM prices in China declined to 1140 USD per MT, reflecting a 1.81 % decrease from Q1. The PM price Trend shifted downward as demand from the paints and coatings segment slowed post-peak season. The PM Market in Vietnam and India softened, driven by reduced industrial output and sufficient stockpiles. The PM prices in Turkey and Brazil weakened due to currency pressure and seasonal demand dip.
Philippines saw cautious buying amid high inventory from Q1. Feedstock propylene oxide remained sufficiently available, allowing producers to maintain operating rates. Exporters in China responded by offering competitive quotes to maintain volumes. Overall, Q2 showed signs of slowing momentum and price correction, shaped by regional consumption patterns and a shift in seasonal demand cycles.Â
In Q1, 2024, the propylene glycol monomethyl ether market in Asia Pacific saw a slight decrease in prices, with a fall of 6%. This is driven by the key factors driving influence increased demand from downstream sectors, especially within the paints and coating industries.Â
In Q2 ,2024, the propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) market in the Asia-Pacific region saw a 1% price fluctuation, driven by economic shifts and supply chain dynamics. The availability of feedstock materials significantly impacted market trends, alongside evolving demand patterns across various industries.Â
In Q3 2024, the propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) market in the Asia-Pacific region experienced a 2% price increase, driven by economic shifts and supply chain dynamics. The availability of feedstock materials continued to play a crucial role in shaping market trends, alongside evolving demand patterns across various industries.Â
In Q4 2024, the propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) market in the Asia-Pacific region saw a 5% price decline, influenced by economic adjustments and supply chain disruptions. The availability of feedstock materials remained a key factor in market trends, alongside shifting demand patterns across industries.Â
A strong recovery occurred in early 2025, with prices rising 4% to 107,578. Increased investment in sustainable solvent solutions, along with a resurgence in manufacturing and construction activities, played a key role in boosting market sentiment. Additionally, stabilized feedstock supplies provided further price support.Â
In Q2 2025, Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PGME) prices in India dropped to 1207 USD per MT on a CIF basis, registering a 4.46 % quarter-on-quarter decline. The price correction was mainly attributed to reduced downstream demand during the monsoon season. Consumption from the paints and coatings sector slowed in regions affected by rain, especially in Western India. Importers from China faced softer inquiries as domestic buyers relied more on existing stock.
Chinese FOB prices also saw a marginal decline, offering more competitive quotes to retain export volumes. Feedstock propylene oxide prices remained mostly unchanged, helping Chinese suppliers maintain operational stability. Weak buying sentiment in early May contributed to a more bearish tone in the Indian market.
Logistic constraints due to seasonal port congestion further discouraged aggressive import activity. Overall, Q2 marked a clear shift toward cautious procurement behaviour in India, with softer industrial consumption and seasonality driving the downward price adjustment from Chinese suppliers.Â
The market started the year on a weaker note, witnessing a 3% decline in prices, settling at 103,836. This decrease was driven by sluggish demand, especially in the coatings and electronics industries, coupled with high feedstock costs. Additionally, global economic uncertainties led to cautious procurement, affecting price stability.Â
Prices rebounded slightly by 1%, reaching 104,429, supported by moderate recovery in industrial activities and steady demand from the automotive and construction sectors. Despite persistent feedstock supply concerns, improved trade flows with China and India helped stabilize pricing.Â
This quarter saw a significant surge of 4%, with prices climbing to 108,196. The rise was attributed to strong demand in the electronics and coatings sectors, coupled with higher export volumes. Improved supply chain dynamics and rising infrastructure projects further supported this upward trend.Â
Prices dropped again by 4%, settling at 103,661, due to seasonal slowdowns in industrial consumption and tightening environmental regulations. Reduced manufacturing activity in key sectors, alongside fluctuations in crude oil and feedstock prices, contributed to the decline.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PGME) is a versatile solvent used in paints, coatings, cleaners, and pharmaceuticals. It is produced from propylene oxide, derived from petroleum or natural gas, and methanol. PGME offers excellent solvency, low evaporation rate, and compatibility with various formulations, making it ideal for industrial and consumer applications.
Packaging Type
Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether 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.
| Property | Specification | Test Method |
| Acidity, wt. % as Acetic Acid, max | 0.01 | ASTM E-202; USP XXI |
| Water Wt.%, max | 0.10 | ASTM E-202; E-203 |
| Color, APHA, max | 10 | ASTM E-202; D-1209 |
| GC Purity wt.%, min | 99.5 | ACC 8314 |
| Appearance | Clear |  |
| PM -2 Isomer wt. % max. | 0.49Â
0.29 in EUÂ |
 |
Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether Applications
Propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) is widely utilized as a solvent in various industries. In the realm of paints and coatings, it plays a crucial role in water-based formulations, effectively dissolving a broad range of substances while enhancing flow and leveling properties. Additionally, PGME serves as a key solvent in many cleaning products, where it effectively dissolves oils, greases, and other residues.Â
In personal care items such as shampoos and lotions, PGME functions both as a solvent and a humectant, helping to retain moisture. The pharmaceutical industry also benefits from PGME, using it as a solvent for active ingredients in various drug delivery formulations. In the formulation of adhesives and sealants, it enhances performance and application characteristics.Â
Furthermore, PGME is essential in ink production, contributing to improved pigment dispersion and overall print quality. In the textile industry, it aids in dyeing and finishing processes, facilitating better color uptake and handling of fabrics. Lastly, PGME finds applications in electronics, where it is used both in the manufacturing of certain components and in cleaning processes.Â
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global propylene glycol monomethyl ether price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the propylene glycol monomethyl ether 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 glycol monomethyl ether prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely propylene glycol monomethyl ether market data.
Track PriceWatch's propylene glycol monomethyl ether 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.
This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable PGME pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Propylene Glycol Monomethyl Ether (PGME) is a versatile solvent used in paints, coatings, cleaners, and pharmaceuticals. It is produced from propylene oxide, derived from petroleum or natural gas, and methanol. PGME offers excellent solvency, low evaporation rate, and compatibility with various formulations, making it ideal for industrial and consumer applications.
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.
| Property | Specification | Test Method |
| Acidity, wt. % as Acetic Acid, max | 0.01 | ASTM E-202; USP XXI |
| Water Wt.%, max | 0.10 | ASTM E-202; E-203 |
| Color, APHA, max | 10 | ASTM E-202; D-1209 |
| GC Purity wt.%, min | 99.5 | ACC 8314 |
| Appearance | Clear |  |
| PM -2 Isomer wt. % max. | 0.49Â
0.29 in EUÂ |
 |
Applications
Propylene glycol monomethyl ether (PGME) is widely utilized as a solvent in various industries. In the realm of paints and coatings, it plays a crucial role in water-based formulations, effectively dissolving a broad range of substances while enhancing flow and leveling properties. Additionally, PGME serves as a key solvent in many cleaning products, where it effectively dissolves oils, greases, and other residues.Â
In personal care items such as shampoos and lotions, PGME functions both as a solvent and a humectant, helping to retain moisture. The pharmaceutical industry also benefits from PGME, using it as a solvent for active ingredients in various drug delivery formulations. In the formulation of adhesives and sealants, it enhances performance and application characteristics.Â
Furthermore, PGME is essential in ink production, contributing to improved pigment dispersion and overall print quality. In the textile industry, it aids in dyeing and finishing processes, facilitating better color uptake and handling of fabrics. Lastly, PGME finds applications in electronics, where it is used both in the manufacturing of certain components and in cleaning processes.Â
The cost of PGME is influenced by the price of its key raw materials, such as propylene glycol, which can fluctuate based on market demand and supply disruptions. Additionally, changes in energy prices and regulatory conditions can also impact production costs, leading to price variations in PGME.
Ensuring a stable supply involves partnering with reputable suppliers who have robust logistics networks. It is wise to diversify your supplier base to mitigate risks associated with potential shortages or disruptions. Building strong relationships with suppliers can also help secure consistent availability.
The market for PGME is subject to variability due to increasing demand in various sectors like coatings and personal care. While it is difficult to predict exact price movements, staying informed about market trends and maintaining open communication with suppliers can help you anticipate changes and adjust your purchasing strategies accordingly.