toluene diisocyanate Pricing Assessment

  • Commodity Pricing

Markets Covered: 

cnChina
saSaudi Arabia
usUnited States
deGermany
itItaly
krKorea
inIndia

Toluene Diisocyanate Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2024, Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) prices saw an increase of approximately 18.5% compared to Q4 2023. This surge was driven by a recovery in demand from industries such as furniture, bedding, and automotive manufacturing. The polyurethane sector experienced a revival after slower market conditions in the previous quarter. 

In Q2 2024, Toluene Diisocyanate prices rose by an additional 8%, largely due to escalating crude oil costs. Crude oil, a key feedstock for TDI production, faced significant price volatility during the first half of the year, peaking in Q2. The increase in oil prices, spurred by geopolitical tensions and OPEC+ production cuts, led to higher production costs for TDI, contributing to the price rise. 

As for Q3 2024, Toluene Diisocyanate prices are expected to stabilize or see modest increases. This projection is based on supply disruptions caused by planned maintenance at key facilities and occasional weather-related interruptions. These factors, coupled with a moderate recovery in demand, particularly from international markets, are likely to support pricing. 

Looking ahead to Q4 2024, the outlook suggests that supply chains will remain stable, with steady shipping rates. Furthermore, lower upstream costs for crude oil and petrochemicals may help to manage production expenses, which could limit any significant upward pressure on TDI prices. 

Why ?

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

Track ‘s liquified natural gas 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 toluene diisocyanate price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the toluene diisocyanate 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 toluene diisocyanate prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with ’s reliable, accurate, and timely toluene diisocyanate market data.

Track 's toluene diisocyanate 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 toluene diisocyanate prices

  • 2015-2018 (Supply Tightness and Plant Disruptions): From 2015 to 2018, supply shortages due to plant maintenance in China and Europe, as well as production issues at BASF’s German facility, tightened global supplies. TDI prices surged to record highs due to shutdowns at key plants, including Covestro’s facility in Germany, and stricter environmental regulations in China, which affected local production. 
  • 2019-2021 (Trade Tensions, Pandemic, and Supply Chain Disruptions): The U.S.-China trade war affected global chemical supply chains, contributing to fluctuating prices. In Asia, particularly in China, prices remained volatile due to uncertainty around tariffs and trade policies. The COVID-19 pandemic led to a sharp decrease in demand for TDI, especially in the automotive and construction sectors, driving prices lower. However, as countries recovered and industries began ramping up production later in the year, prices saw an uptick due to supply chain disruptions and plant shutdowns. Despite ongoing supply chain challenges, demand from recovering sectors like automotive, construction, and appliances drove prices up. Several manufacturers struggled with logistics issues, and a global shortage of raw materials like benzene caused further price increases. 
  • 2022 (Energy Crisis and Supply Disruptions): The Russia-Ukraine conflict resulted in a global energy crisis, particularly affecting natural gas prices in Europe, a critical input for TDI production. Energy shortages and rising production costs led to significant price spikes in the second half of the year. At the same time, production disruptions and rising freight costs added to the volatility. 

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

Methodology and Specifications

toluene diisocyanate 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 TDI production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire TDI 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 TDI 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 typhoon and floods, on TDI production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions. 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 TDI demand and corresponding price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

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

Specifications

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

174.2

CAS No

26471-62-5

HS Code

29291020

Molecular Formula

C9H6N2O2

toluene diisocyanate

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI), derived from petroleum-based toluene, is a key chemical intermediate for polyurethane foam production. It exists as two isomers: 2,4-TDI and 2,6-TDI, which can be used individually or as a mixture.

Packaging Type

Drum

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade (99.5% purity)

Incoterms Used

FOB China, FOB Saudi Arabia, FOB USA, FOB South Korea, FOB Germany, FD Italy (Germany), CIF India, Ex India

Synonym

2,4-Tolylene diisocyanate

Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT(Global), 10-15 MT (For 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 
Viscosity 25 °C (m Pa∙s)   
Colour (APHA)  15 max. 
Acidity, as HCL  40 ppm 
Isomer Content: 

 

2,6 isomers (wt.%) 
2,4 isomers (wt.%) 

 

19 to 21 
79 to 81 

 

Applications

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) is a versatile chemical widely used in the production of flexible polyurethane foams, which are essential for the furniture and automotive industries, providing comfort in cushions and seats. It is also important in manufacturing coatings, adhesives, and sealants for durability and strong bonding. In construction, TDI is used for rigid foam insulation and casting materials, while the textile industry utilizes it for water-resistant finishes.

Disclaimer

Toluene Diisocyanate 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 toluene diisocyanate. 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 factors influence TDI prices in the global market? +

Toluene diisocyanate (TDI) prices are influenced by several key factors, including raw material costs, production capacity, demand from end-user industries, and geopolitical events. Fluctuations in the prices of feedstocks such as toluene and phosgene significantly affect TDI pricing. Additionally, supply disruptions due to maintenance shutdowns or regulatory changes can tighten supply, leading to price increases. Economic conditions, such as growth in the automotive, furniture, and construction sectors, also play a crucial role in shaping demand and influencing TDI prices globally.

How do environmental regulations influence TDI pricing and procurement strategies? +

Environmental regulations significantly influence Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) pricing and procurement strategies by imposing additional costs on manufacturers for compliance and sustainability practices. Stricter regulations may lead to increased production costs, which can be passed on to customers in the form of higher TDI prices. Procurement heads should consider sourcing from suppliers with a strong compliance record and sustainable practices, as they may offer competitive pricing and mitigate risks associated with regulatory penalties and market access.

What role do international trade policies play in TDI pricing fluctuations? +

International trade policies, including tariffs, trade agreements, and import/export restrictions, play a crucial role in Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI) pricing fluctuations. For instance, tariffs on raw materials or finished products can lead to increased costs for manufacturers, which may be reflected in TDI prices. Additionally, trade agreements can facilitate smoother supply chains and potentially lower costs. Procurement heads should stay informed about trade policy changes in key producing countries to adjust their sourcing strategies and manage pricing effectively.

Price Watch Login