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Toluene Price Trend and Forecast

UNSPC code: 12352006
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⟳ Weekly Update
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Historical Data Since 2015
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Forecast for 2026

toluene Price Trends by Country

inIndia
cnChina
sgSingapore
vnVietnam
myMalaysia
thThailand
idIndonesia
deGermany
frFrance
nlNetherlands
usUnited States
caCanada
mxMexico
krSouth Korea

Global toluene Spot Market Prices, Trend Analysis and Forecast

Price-Watch’s most active coverage of Toluene price assessment:

  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Nhava Sheva (China), India
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea), India
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Nhava Sheva (Thailand), India
  • Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla, India
  • Industrial Grade (99%) Ex- Ahmedabad, India
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Qingdao, China
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Singapore (China), Singapore
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Haiphong (China), Vietnam
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Haiphong (Thailand), Vietnam
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Port Kelang (China), Malaysia
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan, South Korea
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Laem Chabang, Thailand
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Jakarta (Thailand), Indonesia
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FD Hamburg, Germany
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FD Le Havre, France
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FD Rotterdam, Netherlands
  • Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Houston, USA
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Montreal (USA), Canada
  • Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Manzanillo (USA), Mexico

Toluene Price Trend Q3 2025

The global Toluene market showed regional disparity in Q3 2025. Major markets in the West such as the USA and Canada, saw modest price increases because of strong solvent, coatings, and adhesives demand from downstream, tight supply conditions and firm feedstock costs. Conversely, Western European markets, including Germany, France, and the Netherlands saw slight declines in toluene price trend as industrial activity and demand from the automotive, construction, and chemical-based derivatives sectors softened.

The Asia-Pacific markets were also impacted by marginal price softness due to market oversupply and soft consumption, with toluene price trend declining in China, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand, impacted by competition from imports and logistical challenges.

Despite the mixed conditions regionally, the market remained reasonably balanced, supported by steady levels of industrial activity, stable availability of feedstock, and moderate freight conditions. Regional supply chain fundamentals and differences in downstream consumption continued to play a leading role during the quarter in Toluene pricing.

India

Toluene Domestically Traded Price in India, Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex-Kandla.

According to Price-Watch, in the third quarter of 2025, the Toluene price in India showed slight firmness due to the stable demand in the downstream Paint, Coatings and Solvent industries. The buyer prices out of Kandla has averaged between USD 720-790 per metric ton. For the month of September 2025, Toluene price trend in India decreased by 3.45% month-on-month for a mild month-on-month correction.

The Toluene price trend in India has held steady due to stable domestic supply from Refineries and Aromatics complexes while some of the more significant costs of key Feedstock Reformate and Crude Oil have moved very mildly and provided very limited directional momentum. Indian buyers remained consistent in evaluations from an overall procurement standpoint which was consistent with healthy industrial activity and thus overall market sentiment remained mildly firm.

China

Toluene Export Price from China, Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Qingdao.

In Q3 2025, Toluene prices in China decreased slightly due to weakened regional demand and increased competition from additional suppliers from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. FOB Qingdao prices for Toluene ranged from USD 690-740 per metric ton, representing a quarterly decline of 1.31%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in China experienced an increase of 1.84% from the previous month, hinting at slight short-term improvement.

The Toluene price trend in China was impacted by mixed performance downstream of Benzene and Xylene co-products, while producers in China maintained stable production levels despite soft export interest. Additionally, feedstock Naphtha costs lowered slightly, limiting cost support. Sentiment in the market has remained cautious, and limited restocking was seen among key trading centers.

Singapore

Toluene Import Price in Singapore from China, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Singapore (China).

The price of Toluene in Singapore has decreased in Q3 2025, due to lower demand from the Solvent and Chemical Derivative sectors. The Price, Cost, and Freight (CIF) Singapore pricing range was USD 720 – USD 770 per metric ton, which reflected a quarterly decrease of 1.71%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend were up 2.02% from August, which indicates a slight month on month increase.

The Toluene price trend in Singapore has been influenced by fairly lower shipping prices because of improved vessel availability and reduced congestion, although supply from China continued to place pressure on pricing. Singaporean buyers have also remained disciplined with limited spot activity noted, resulting in a muted market fundamental.

Vietnam

Toluene Import Price in Vietnam from China, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Haiphong (China).

In Quarter 3 of 2025, the Toluene price in Vietnam experienced a modest drop, attributed to a downturn in demand from the downstream Paint, Adhesive and Polymer Industries. The CIF Haiphong price fluctuated between USD 720–770 per metric ton, representing a quarterly decline of 1.18%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in Vietnam increased by 2.02% compared to the previous month, suggesting some short-lived month-on-month growth.

The toluene price trend in Vietnam was driven by slightly higher freight cost due to tighter vessel availability, albeit Chinese suppliers continued to offer regular product supply. Vietnamese buyers continued to adopt a cautious approach to procurement, thus aligning their offtake opportunities with soft domestic consumption. The quantity of market activity has remained nominal, and generally the import situation remains moderately competitive in comparison to other markets.

Malaysia

Toluene Import Price in Malaysia from China, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Port Kelang (China).

In Q3 2025, Toluene prices in Malaysia have declined because of a lackluster outlook from the downstream sectors of Solvent, Paint, and Adhesives, which carry a weak demand. The CIF Port Klang price range was USD 720–830 per metric ton; indicating a decrease of 1.19% from the last quarter. In September 2025, the price for Toluene increased by 2.01% over August 2025, giving an indication of some short-term recovery.

The toluene price trend in Malaysia has been affected by stable supply from Chinese suppliers and modest fluctuations in shipping costs. Malaysian buyers continued to procure selectively to align with a soft market for domestic consumption. Overall market fundamentals have remained balanced, with price pressure held in check by stable supply and moderate activity in buyer procurement.

South Korea

Toluene Export Price from South Korea, Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan.

In South Korea during Q3 2025, the Toluene price showed slight firmness as the usual demand from Northeast Asian buyers remained stable, while domestic supply was balanced. The toluene price trend on a FOB Busan basis has ranged from USD 650–700 per metric ton, showing a mild quarterly increase. In September 2025, South Korea saw a month-on-month increase of 2.01% in Toluene prices that reflected steady demand for exports.

The toluene price trend in South Korea has been supported by stable Cracker operations (taking Toluene and Benzene as co-products) and relative stability in Feedstock Naphtha prices, which tempered rapid price swings. Korean producers have shown competitiveness in pricing for established contracts, while the market activity remains moderate amidst careful demand for downstream converting products.

Thailand

Toluene Export Price from Thailand, Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Laem Chabang.

In the third quarter of 2025, the Toluene price in Thailand fell considerably, a reflection of weak regional demand and increased competition from Chinese and Middle Eastern sources. FOB Laem Chabang prices have followed USD 710-780 per metric ton, yielding a quarterly decline of 3.43%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in Thailand ticked upwards by only 0.03% from August prices, suggesting a slight month-on-month improvement.

The Toluene price trend in Thailand has been impacted by reduced demand from the downstream solvent and chemical sector, while refinery runs remained steady, resulting in higher inventories. Feedstock costs have eased, providing limited support. Market sentiment has remained cautious, with low spot activity, while export competitiveness has been sustained with Thai suppliers maintaining pricing.

Indonesia

Toluene Import Price in Indonesia from Thailand, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Jakarta (Thailand).

In Q3 2025, Toluene prices in Indonesia have experienced slight decreases, reflecting weak demand from downstream sectors such as Paint, Adhesives, and Polymers. CIF Jakarta prices were reported in the USD 770–850 per metric ton range, which declined slightly by 3.17% quarter on quarter. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in Indonesia remained essentially flat, with a barely noticeable change of 0.03% higher than the previous month, also indicating a steady trend.

Toluene price trend in Indonesia has been influenced by steady supply from Thai exporters combined with stable freight costs, providing price predictability upon destination. Indonesian buyers continued with their selective buying, aligning their offtake with muted local consumption levels. Overall, the market situation hasn’t improved, and pricing still remained under pressure, as buying intentions from downstream markets are still muted.

Germany

Toluene Domestically Traded Price in Germany; Industrial Grade (99%) FD Hamburg

In the third quarter of 2025, Toluene prices in Germany have declined due to disappointing demand from the European Coatings, Adhesives, and Chemical Derivatives sectors. FD prices in Hamburg for Toluene were observed in a wide price range of USD 800–850 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly price decline of 1.45%. As of September 2025, Toluene price trend in Germany fell 1.94% month-on-month from August 2025, continuing this trend of softness.

The price decline for Toluene in Germany has continued to be led by ample supply from domestic producers and the neighbouring region, while Feedstock Reformate and Crude Oil costs provided some limited support on the margin side. Downstream converters persisted with low operational rates given the demand visibility afforded by moderated industrial activity. While market discreteness has continued, general pricing pressure has remained consistent with the overall price trend within the European aromatics market.

France

Toluene Domestically Traded Price in France, Industrial Grade (99%) FD Le Havre.

In the third quarter of 2025, the price of Toluene in France has seen a modest drop as a result of weak demand from the automotive, construction, and industrial chemicals sectors. The prices at FD Le Havre have been in the range of USD 850-900 per metric ton, representing a decrease of 1.56% in the third quarter compared with the previous quarter. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in France fell 2.85% from August 2025, indicating that the price has softened further.

Toluene price trend in France has been shaped by converter operating rates reducing, stable supply from European producers, and Feedstock and energy costs being supportive of pricing with limited impact on margins. Domestic market activity has not improved significantly, and the overall demand has remained soft with careful consumption in the industrial market contributing to continued pricing pressure.

Netherlands

Toluene Domestically Traded Price in Netherlands, Industrial Grade (99%) FD Rotterdam.

In the third quarter of 2025, Toluene prices in the Netherlands have experienced a slight decline, aligning with trends across the European markets. FD Rotterdam prices have fluctuated between USD 840–890 per metric ton, conveying a quarterly fall of 1.56%. Toluene Prices fell slower due to effectively increases in demand at the end of coater, while still finishing the quarter lower. The Netherlands Toluene price trend in September 2025 have averaged a 2.54% decline compared to the previous month of August, driving the ongoing downward trend we discussed.

Toluene prices have been impacted by a well supplied market due to integrated petrochemical complexes and moderately ranged Feedstock factor costs. Demand from downstream polymer, resin, and solvent markets across the supply chain are still weak. Market activity has been low, with price pressure continuing even while procurement activity was as careful as it could be with minimal other industrial consumption, and overall minimal activity in the Toluene market.

USA

Toluene Export Price from USA, Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Houston.

In Q3 2025, Toluene price in USA has risen moderately, driven by strong domestic demand from octane boosters, solvents, and chemical intermediates. FOB Houston prices have ranged between USD 700–750 per metric ton, marking a quarterly increase of 2.81%. In September 2025, Toluene prices in USA have declined by 2.52% from the previous month, reflecting short-term volatility.

The Toluene price trend in USA has been supported by tight supply due to robust offtake from refineries and petrochemical plants, while Feedstock Crude and Reformate costs provided strong cost support. Spot market activity has remained active, with healthy export interest from Latin America and Europe. U.S. suppliers have maintained competitive pricing to secure overseas contracts, while domestic industrial demand continued at steady levels.

Canada

Toluene Import Price in Canada from USA, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Montreal (USA).

During Q3 2025, Toluene price in Canada has increased moderately, supported by strong domestic demand from paint, coatings, and industrial solvent sectors. CIF Montreal prices have ranged between USD 840–890 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly gain of 3.15%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in Canada have edged down by 2.12% from the previous month, indicating minor month-on-month easing.

The Toluene price trend in Canada has been influenced by reliable supply from U.S. Gulf Coast exporters amid minor logistical challenges, while domestic converters maintained healthy operating rates. Overall market activity has remained robust, with pricing sustained by continued offtake from industrial end users and steady import flows.

Mexico

Toluene Import Price in Mexico from USA, Industrial Grade (99%) CIF Manzanillo (USA).

According to Price-Watch, During Q3 2025, Toluene price in Mexico has risen moderately, reflecting firm demand from downstream solvents, adhesives, and automotive sectors. CIF Manzanillo prices have ranged between USD 760–810 per metric ton, reflecting a quarterly increase of 2.66%. In September 2025, Toluene price trend in Mexico have increased slightly by 2.33% from the previous month, maintaining upward momentum.

The Toluene price trend in Mexico has been supported by stable supply from U.S. Gulf Coast exporters and consistent domestic procurement, with freight costs rising marginally. Mexican converters have maintained competitive purchasing, aligning with industrial production trends, while market sentiment has remained positive amid steady demand and tight regional supply.

Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q2 2025

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Toluene prices averaged USD 670 per metric ton on FOB Busan basis. This reflected a sharp quarterly decline of -11.77% driven by weak regional and export demand. The Toluene price trend remained under pressure across Asia due to lower downstream activity in solvents, gasoline blending, and chemical intermediates. Major buyers in Southeast Asia slowed purchases as inventories remained sufficient.

Supply from South Korea stayed stable, with most refiners maintaining run rates despite thin margins. Crude oil prices showed a declining pattern, which led to softer upstream cost support. Limited arbitrage opportunities to the US and Europe kept export flows restricted. The Toluene price chart showed consistent downward movement through April to June, without any major rebounds. Meanwhile, freight costs on regional routes stayed mostly unchanged. Overall, the Toluene market remained sluggish with few demand triggers. 

According to the PriceWatch, In Q2 2025, Toluene prices in India averaged USD 759.9 per metric ton on Ex-Kandla basis. This marked a quarterly drop of -11.82% as buying slowed across key downstream industries. The domestic Toluene market witnessed steady inflow of imported cargoes despite lower consumption from paints, resins, and adhesives segments. Domestic producers held price offers under pressure, facing resistance from end-users. Inventory levels stayed on the higher side, limiting fresh demand.

The Toluene price trend showed persistent softness across all three months, supported by weak cost dynamics and stable refinery operations. Seasonal delays during pre-monsoon transport had minimal impact on overall logistics. According to the Toluene price chart, prices trended downward in a narrow band, echoing subdued sentiment across the Indian Toluene market. 

In the first quarter of 2025, South Korea’s Toluene market started to bounce back. Prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan edged up to USD 759/MT, marking a +2.85% increase from the last quarter. This slight rise came as industries like solvents and blending resumed regular operations after the year-end lull. Many buyers were restocking inventories, which helped support demand. Output levels within the country remained steady, ensuring that the supply landscape stayed balanced. 

During Q1 2025, prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla inched up slightly to USD 853 per metric ton, recording a +1.29% rise over the previous quarter. This minor increase was due to renewed buying interest from the solvent and chemical sectors, which started restocking after the year-end lull. Supportive crude prices and steady port operations ensured regular supply movement, while stable demand helped the market maintain a balanced tone. The quarter closed on a steady note with no major price disruptions. 

Toluene Price Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

In the fourth quarter of 2024, Toluene prices in South Korea fell further. Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan was assessed at USD 738/MT, registering a notable –10.98% drop from the previous quarter. This was mainly due to reduced demand from end-use sectors like paints and resins, which typically slow down toward year-end. Many plants scaled back operations during the holiday season, and buying remained sluggish. On top of that, there were no major supply issues, and imports flowed steadily, which led to an oversupplied market and further price drops. 

In Q4 2024, prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla continued their downward trend, reaching USD 864 per metric ton, showing a –7.34% decrease from Q3. The decline was mainly driven by weak year-end demand, as industries slowed down operations for maintenance and inventory checks. In addition, rising import volumes, along with better availability from domestic refineries, led to oversupply in the market. This kept buyers cautious and led to softer pricing across the country. 

The July–September 2024 period brought another setback to the market. Prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan dipped to USD 829/MT, down by –9.40% compared to Q2 2024. Demand weakened as downstream industries faced softer export orders and stiff competition. Consumption within the country slowed, and stock levels started building up. Even though crude oil prices held steady, the lack of strong pull from the market dragged Toluene prices lower. Some producers tried cutting output, but high availability kept the pressure on. 

By Q3 2024, Prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla dropped sharply to USD 940 per metric ton, a –10.15% fall from Q2. This decline came as a result of reduced industrial activity during the monsoon months, with several downstream plants running at lower capacities. Global toluene supplies also improved due to smoother refinery operations, allowing Indian importers to procure at better rates. The drop in demand from paint and thinner producers also played a key role in this price correction. 

During Q2 2024, a modest recovery was seen in Toluene prices FOB Busan, which reached USD 915/MT, indicating a slight +0.77% uptick from the preceding quarter. Seasonal buying picked up, especially from the construction and solvent segments. Export movement was a bit more active, and refineries handled production more carefully after the earlier dip. With crude oil prices staying steady and logistics running smoothly, the market found a bit of balance—though demand overall remained on the cautious side. 

In Q2 2024, prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla rebounded to USD 1050 per metric ton, reflecting a +6.41% increase over the previous quarter. The rise came after higher seasonal demand from the construction and automobile sectors, which use toluene-based products like solvents and sealants. Festive season production and bulk buying from downstream users contributed to the upward trend. Additionally, some supply delays from the Middle East and Southeast Asia affected availability, pushing prices higher. 

At the beginning of 2024, the Toluene market in South Korea experienced a clear downward shift. Prices of Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) FOB Busan settled at USD 908/MT, which was –11.84% lower than the previous quarter. The decline happened mainly because demand from sectors like paints, adhesives, and construction was quite slow. The market stayed quiet, and supply was not disrupted, as most producers-maintained output. With few buyers and stable production levels, prices naturally trended downward. 

During Q1 2024, Toluene Industrial Grade (99%) (Bulk) Ex- Kandla prices in India dropped to USD 992 per metric ton, marking a +5.43% decrease compared to the previous quarter. This fall was mainly due to sluggish demand from the paint, coatings, and adhesive industries, which had reduced buying activity. At the same time, international crude oil prices remained somewhat stable, leading to better availability of feedstock. Increased local inventories and steady import volumes also helped ease the price pressure. 

Technical Specifications of Toluene Price Trends

Product Description

Toluene is a clear, water-insoluble liquid with a distinctive sweet, pungent odor, and is highly flammable. It is primarily used as an industrial solvent and chemical intermediate. Toluene serves as a key feedstock in the production of Benzene, Toluene diisocyanate (TDI), and other petrochemical derivatives. It is commonly derived from the catalytic reforming of petroleum or as a byproduct of coke oven processes. Toluene plays a critical role in industries such as paints and coatings, adhesives, pharmaceuticals, and chemical manufacturing.

Identifiers and Classification:

  • CAS No – 108-88-3
  • HS Code – 29023000
  • Molecular Formula – C₇H₈
  • Molecular Weight[g/mol] – 92.14 g/mol


Toluene Synonyms:

  • MethylBenzene
  • Phenyl methane
  • Toluol


Toluene Grades Specific Price Assessment:

  • Industrial Grade (99%)


Toluene Global Trade and Shipment Terms

  • Quotation Terms (Product & Country Specific): 25-30 MT
  • Packaging Type (Product & Country Specific): Drum (170 Kg), Tanker


Incoterms Referenced in Toluene Price Reporting

Shipping Term  Location  Definition 
FOB Qingdao  Qingdao, China  Toluene export price from China 
FOB Busan  Busan, South Korea  Toluene export price from South Korea 
FOB Laem Chabang  Laem Chabang, Thailand  Toluene export price from Thailand 
FOB Houston  Houston, USA  Toluene export price from USA 
CIF Nhava Sheva (China)  Nhava Sheva, India  Toluene import price in India from China 
CIF Nhava Sheva (South Korea)  Nhava Sheva, India  Toluene import price in India from South Korea 
CIF Nhava Sheva (Thailand)  Nhava Sheva, India  Toluene import price in India from Thailand 
CIF Singapore (China)  Singapore  Toluene import price in Singapore from China 
CIF Haiphong (China)  Haiphong, Vietnam  Toluene import price in Vietnam from China 
CIF Haiphong (Thailand)  Haiphong, Vietnam  Toluene import price in Vietnam from Thailand 
CIF Port Kelang (China)  Port Kelang, Malaysia  Toluene import price in Malaysia from China 
CIF Jakarta (Thailand)  Jakarta, Indonesia  Toluene import price in Indonesia from Thailand 
CIF Montreal (USA)  Montreal, Canada  Toluene import price in Canada from USA 
CIF Manzanillo (USA)  Manzanillo, Mexico  Toluene import price in Mexico from USA 
FD Hamburg  Hamburg, Germany  Domestically traded Toluene price in Germany 
FD Le Havre  Le Havre, France  Domestically traded Toluene price in France 
FD Rotterdam  Rotterdam, Netherlands  Domestically traded Toluene price in Netherlands 
Ex-Kandla  Kandla, India  Domestically traded Toluene price in Kandla 
Ex-Ahmedabad  Ahmedabad, India  Domestically traded Toluene price in Ahmedabad 

*Quotation Terms refers to the quantity range specified for the Toluene being quoted or offered in a commercial transaction.

**Packaging Type refers to standard packaging size commonly used for Toluene packing, ease of handling, transportation, and storage in industrial and commercial applications.

Key Toluene Manufacturers

Manufacturer 
Exxon Mobil Corporation 
Sinopec 
LyondellBasell 
BASF 
Reliance 
Chevron Phillips Chemical 
Huntsman 
Dow 
Indian Oil
Ineos 
Mitsui Chemicals 

Toluene Industrial Applications

toluene market share end use

 

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Toluene prices

Global Petrochemical Oversupply and Tariff Pressures (2025): In 2025, the global petrochemical sector faced challenges due to oversupply, particularly from new capacities in China. This led to reduced profit margins and plant closures in Europe and Asia. Additionally, new U.S. import tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump exacerbated the situation by raising costs for goods, thereby reducing consumer demand and downstream petrochemical usage. These factors combined to create a complex market environment, influencing Toluene prices worldwide. 

Russia–Ukraine Conflict Impact on Energy Prices (2022–2023): The outbreak of the Russia–Ukraine war led to major disruptions in global energy markets. Crude oil and natural gas prices spiked sharply, directly affecting the cost of petrochemicals, including Toluene, which is derived from crude oil. Refinery operations in Europe were disrupted due to supply issues and sanctions, tightening availability. The high feedstock costs and uncertain energy supply caused Toluene prices to rise globally, especially in Europe and Asia.​ 

COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdowns (2020): During early 2020, global demand for solvents and industrial chemicals, including Toluene, plummeted as manufacturing, construction, and transportation came to a halt. Prices fell sharply due to low consumption. However, as lockdowns eased in the second half of the year, restocking and resumed industrial activity led to a sudden jump in demand. This mismatch, coupled with slow supply recovery, caused noticeable price volatility.​ 

U.S.–China Trade Tariff Conflict (2018–2019): During the trade dispute between the U.S. and China, heavy tariffs were placed on many petrochemical products. Toluene, along with its derivatives like benzene and toluene diisocyanate (TDI), faced restricted trade flows. This disrupted traditional supply chains and led to stockpiling and price swings. While some regions saw oversupply, others faced shortages, creating a patchy and unstable pricing trend across markets.​ 

China’s Environmental Inspections & Production Cuts (2017–2018): China launched aggressive environmental inspections across its chemical industry to reduce pollution. Numerous plants producing aromatics, including Toluene, were shut down or operated at reduced capacity. With China being a key global player in petrochemical production, this caused a ripple effect on global supply, pushing prices upward, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.​ 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's toluene 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: Our methodology aggregates real-time pricing data for toluene from a range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions for toluene. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: We gather insights directly from key market participants, such as producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users in major toluene production regions like the U.S., China, and Europe. This direct intelligence is vital for understanding localized market dynamics and trends. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire toluene supply chain, from the availability of raw materials like crude oil and naphtha to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring fluctuations in feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics, all of which impact toluene pricing.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: We monitor global geopolitical developments that can affect toluene production and trade. Issues such as conflicts or trade disputes, especially those impacting major oil-producing regions, can disrupt supply chains and influence toluene prices. 
  • Climate and Weather Events: We assess the impact of significant weather events, such as hurricanes or extreme temperatures, which can affect oil refineries and toluene production facilities. These events may cause temporary disruptions in supply and impact prices. 
  • Economic Shifts: We analyze macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand, particularly from industries like automotive and construction. These factors influence toluene demand and pricing, as well as potential shifts in market conditions. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a detailed database of global toluene production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to accurately assess current supply availability. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes forecasts of upcoming toluene production capacities, accounting for new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps predict future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: We provide in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive, paints, coatings, and chemicals. 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 their influence on global toluene pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations on toluene demand. 

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: We use advanced econometric models to forecast toluene 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, including best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios. This helps our clients prepare for various market outcomes.

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports with current price assessments, future forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: We offer continuous updates and personalized support, ensuring our clients have the latest information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This methodology ensures that we deliver accurate, timely, and actionable toluene pricing assessments, helping clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions.

Toluene 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 toluene. 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.

Toluene prices are affected by several key factors, including the cost of feedstocks like crude oil and natural gas. Other significant influences include fluctuations in crude oil prices, refinery production levels, transportation costs, and environmental regulations. Additionally, supply-demand imbalances, particularly in major production regions like Asia and North America, and disruptions due to geopolitical issues or natural disasters, can impact toluene pricing trends.

Supply chain disruptions, such as plant shutdowns, port delays, or shortages of raw materials, can lead to sharp increases in toluene prices. For example, when crude oil supplies tighten due to refinery outages or production cuts, toluene production costs rise, leading to higher market prices. Conversely, improved supply chain efficiency or reduced transportation costs can help stabilize or lower toluene prices. Procurement teams should stay informed on supply chain developments to optimize their purchasing strategies.

Toluene prices vary significantly across different regions due to factors like production capacity, local demand, and logistics. For instance, Asia, a leading producer of toluene, often has more competitive prices compared to Europe or the US, where higher production costs and stricter environmental regulations may drive up prices. Procurement heads should consider these regional variations by exploring opportunities to source toluene from cost-competitive regions or leveraging long-term contracts in regions with favourable pricing to reduce exposure to price volatility.

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