India
United Arab Emirates
Vietnam
ChinaIn Q1 2025, prices dropped by 6.37%, as post-holiday demand slumped and buyers refrained from aggressive restocking. Downstream sectors, especially in rubber and glass manufacturing, adopted a wait-and-see approach amid macroeconomic uncertainty. Meanwhile, healthy output from key smelters and steady raw material availability ensured a well-supplied market. Although energy and freight rates remained largely stable, soft consumption kept pricing on a clearly corrective path.Â
In Q2 2025, according to PriceWatch, Zinc Oxide prices in China declined by 3.91%, marking another quarter of softness amid persistent demand-side challenges. Rubber, ceramics, and electronics sectors showed no significant recovery, while inventories remained sufficient to meet ongoing needs. Zinc metal prices were stable but not strong enough to offset weak downstream activity. Improved logistics and steady domestic supply conditions further weighed on sentiment, keeping the market muted and buyer-driven through the quarter.Â
In Q1 2024, China’s Zinc Oxide prices declined by 3.82%, as weak demand from the rubber and ceramic sectors weighed on offtake, with buyers delaying fresh purchases amid inventory carryovers from late 2023. While feedstock zinc metal prices showed signs of stability, domestic output from key producers remained healthy, resulting in adequate availability and limited upward pricing traction. Overall, the market tone stayed subdued throughout the quarter, with spot negotiations favoring buyers.Â
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In Q2 2024, prices fell a further 3.18%, as sluggish demand persisted in traditional consumption sectors like tires, glass, and varistors. Producers operated steadily, and a lack of major maintenance shutdowns ensured uninterrupted supply. Despite seasonal construction activity, downstream consumption failed to gain momentum, while steady raw material input costs prevented any cost-led support. The market remained under mild downward pressure as balanced supply and lukewarm demand shaped trading sentiment.Â
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In Q3 2024, prices rebounded by 2.33%, supported by modest restocking from the rubber and electronics sectors ahead of the holiday manufacturing cycle. A slight uptick in zinc metal values, alongside tighter freight capacity and higher inland transport rates, added some cost-side pressure. While domestic production continued uninterrupted, export demand from Southeast Asia and the Middle East showed signs of life, lending a mildly constructive tone to the market, though gains remained measured.Â
In Q4 2024, China’s Zinc Oxide prices rose by 6.47%, driven by festive-season restocking and improved demand from ceramics and battery manufacturers. Stronger offtake, combined with higher zinc metal costs and rising energy prices, tightened producer margins and lifted spot offers. Freight conditions remained constrained, further inflating delivered costs. Despite stable plant operations, the quarter closed with a firmer and somewhat volatile pricing environment as traders positioned ahead of the year-end.Â
In Q1 2025, Zinc Oxide prices in India followed a mixed pattern, rising in January, dipping in February, and then increasing again in March. The initial price increase in January was fueled by higher demand from the rubber and coatings industries, which saw strong production and industrial activity. In February, prices softened slightly as supply conditions improved and demand temporarily eased.
However, by March, as the market regained momentum and restocking efforts intensified, Zinc Oxide prices climbed back up. After the conclusion of March 2025, Zinc Oxide 99.5% prices were assessed at USD 2608 per MT Ex-Kolkata.Â
During Q2 2025, Zinc Oxide 99.5% prices in India edged down slightly by 0.62% on a quarter-on-quarter basis, reflecting a largely stable but mildly bearish market tone. April opened with steady pricing as demand from the rubber and coatings sectors held firm, supported by ongoing manufacturing activity. However, as the quarter progressed, downstream procurement softened slightly, with buyers adopting a wait-and-see approach amid adequate inventory levels.
Feedstock Zinc Ingot prices remained stable to slightly soft, easing cost pressures on producers. Domestic supply conditions remained balanced, with no major disruptions. By the end of June 2025, Zinc Oxide prices at Ex-Kolkata were assessed marginally lower, signaling a subdued yet orderly market adjustment.Â
During the first quarter of 2024, Zinc Oxide 99.5% prices in India began on a strong note, with notable increases observed in January and February, followed by a moderation in March. The initial price surge was primarily driven by robust demand from downstream sectors such as rubber and coatings, bolstered by active manufacturing and inventory replenishment.
Limited domestic supply conditions further contributed to the bullish trend. The cost of Feedstock: Zinc Ingot, the primary raw material, remained elevated through the first two months, adding upward pressure on production expenses.
However, as feedstock prices declined in March and supply conditions stabilized, market dynamics shifted, resulting in a price correction by quarter-end. After the conclusion of March 2024, Zinc Oxide prices were assessed at USD 2191 per MT Ex-Kolkata.Â
In Q2 2024, Zinc Oxide prices in India remained relatively stable in April before experiencing an upward shift in the subsequent months. The price increase was primarily driven by strong demand from the rubber and industrial coatings industries, which stayed active due to higher production levels and favorable weather conditions that supported operations.
Moreover, limited availability of imports and slight delays in domestic deliveries created moderate supply constraints. The cost of Feedstock: Zinc Ingot also rose during the quarter, contributing to increased production costs for Zinc Oxide.
These combined factors led to a gradual price hike throughout the quarter. After the conclusion of Jun 2024, Zinc Oxide 99.5% prices were assessed at USD 2441 per MT Ex-Kolkata.Â
In Q3 2024, Zinc Oxide prices in India experienced some fluctuation, starting with an increase in July, followed by a dip in August, before rising again in September. The initial price hike in July was driven by consistent demand from the rubber and coatings industries, alongside tight supply chains.
However, in August, prices softened slightly as supply conditions improved and some demand factors stabilized. Feedstock Zinc prices remained volatile throughout the quarter, impacting production costs. After the conclusion of Sep 2024, Zinc Oxide prices were assessed at USD 2515 per MT Ex-Kolkata.Â
In Q4 2024, Zinc Oxide prices in India showed a mixed trend where prices displayed a downward trend in October and November, before rebounding in December 2024. The early decline was largely attributed to weaker demand from the rubber and coatings industries, as some manufacturers scaled back production due to year-end factors.
Supply was more balanced during these months, and Feedstock Zinc prices also softened, easing production costs. After the conclusion of Dec 2024, Zinc Oxide prices were assessed at USD 2551 per MT Ex-Kolkata.Â
Molecular Weight[g/mol]
CAS No
HS Code
Molecular Formula
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) is a versatile, white inorganic compound commonly used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and manufacturing. It is known for its excellent UV-blocking properties, making it a key ingredient in sunscreens, offering broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. In the medical field, Zinc Oxide is used in topical ointments and creams for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It also plays a crucial role in the rubber and ceramics industries, enhancing durability and providing corrosion resistance. As an essential element in numerous applications, Zinc Oxide offers both functional and protective benefits, combining safety with efficacy. Its non-toxic, stable nature further contributes to its widespread use in consumer and industrial products.
Packaging Type
Zinc Oxide 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.
| Test Parameters | Specifications |
| Zinc Oxide Content as ZnO (dry basis) | 99.5% Min. |
| Colour & Appearance | White Powder |
| Volatile Matters on dry basis | 0.10% Max. |
| LOI @850 ºC | 0.20% Max. |
| Insoluble in Dil HCI acid | 0.040% Max. |
| Lead Content as Pb | 0.05% Max. |
| Iron Content as Fe | 0.005% Max. |
| Cadmium Content as Cd | 0.001% Max. |
| Total Sulphur Content | Nil |
| Specific Gravity | 5.6 |
| Bulk Density (tapped) | 0.75 gm/cc |
| Surface Area (BET) | 4 – 6 m2/gm |
| Residue on 350 mesh (wet Sieving)Â | 0.10%Â |
Zinc Oxide Applications
Zinc oxide stands out as a multifunctional material with critical roles across diverse sectors. In ceramics, it boosts durability and thermal resistance; in chemicals, it enhances the performance of rubber and plastics. Its pharmaceutical value lies in healing and antibacterial properties, while in agriculture, it acts as a vital micronutrient. Personal care products use it for UV protection and skin relief, and in construction, it strengthens concrete and coatings. These varied uses highlight zinc oxide’s adaptability and essential role in driving innovation and quality across both industrial and consumer markets.Â
Persistent Supply Chain Issues (2022): Supply chain disruptions continued to impact the availability of raw materials and the transportation of finished products. Geopolitical tensions and trade disputes further exacerbated supply chain challenges and increased uncertainty in the market. Rising inflation rates globally added to the cost pressures faced by manufacturers, leading to higher production costs and, consequently, higher Zinc Oxide prices.Â
Supply Chain Disruptions (2021): Continued supply chain bottlenecks, including logistical challenges and port congestion, impacted the availability of raw materials and finished products. Increased energy costs, particularly for electricity and natural gas, added to production costs, putting upward pressure on prices. As global economies recovered, demand for Zinc Oxide from various industries, such as automotive and construction, surged, further contributing to price increases.Â
COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic led to significant disruptions in global supply chains, impacting raw material availability and production. As industries slowed down due to lockdowns and economic uncertainty, demand for Zinc Oxide decreased, leading to a decline in prices. Towards the end of the year, as economies started to reopen, demand for Zinc Oxide began to recover, stabilizing prices.Â
These events underscore the Zinc Oxide market’s vulnerability to global disruptions and highlight the need for continuous monitoring of supply-demand dynamics.Â
PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global zinc oxide price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the zinc oxide 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 zinc oxide prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely zinc oxide market data.
Track PriceWatch's zinc oxide 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.
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This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Zinc Oxide 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
Zinc Oxide (ZnO) is a versatile, white inorganic compound commonly used in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and manufacturing. It is known for its excellent UV-blocking properties, making it a key ingredient in sunscreens, offering broad-spectrum protection against both UVA and UVB radiation. In the medical field, Zinc Oxide is used in topical ointments and creams for its skin-healing and anti-inflammatory benefits. It also plays a crucial role in the rubber and ceramics industries, enhancing durability and providing corrosion resistance. As an essential element in numerous applications, Zinc Oxide offers both functional and protective benefits, combining safety with efficacy. Its non-toxic, stable nature further contributes to its widespread use in consumer and industrial products.
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.
| Test Parameters | Specifications |
| Zinc Oxide Content as ZnO (dry basis) | 99.5% Min. |
| Colour & Appearance | White Powder |
| Volatile Matters on dry basis | 0.10% Max. |
| LOI @850 ºC | 0.20% Max. |
| Insoluble in Dil HCI acid | 0.040% Max. |
| Lead Content as Pb | 0.05% Max. |
| Iron Content as Fe | 0.005% Max. |
| Cadmium Content as Cd | 0.001% Max. |
| Total Sulphur Content | Nil |
| Specific Gravity | 5.6 |
| Bulk Density (tapped) | 0.75 gm/cc |
| Surface Area (BET) | 4 – 6 m2/gm |
| Residue on 350 mesh (wet Sieving)Â | 0.10%Â |
Applications
Zinc oxide stands out as a multifunctional material with critical roles across diverse sectors. In ceramics, it boosts durability and thermal resistance; in chemicals, it enhances the performance of rubber and plastics. Its pharmaceutical value lies in healing and antibacterial properties, while in agriculture, it acts as a vital micronutrient. Personal care products use it for UV protection and skin relief, and in construction, it strengthens concrete and coatings. These varied uses highlight zinc oxide’s adaptability and essential role in driving innovation and quality across both industrial and consumer markets.Â
Zinc oxide pricing is shaped by a blend of technical, geographic, and economic factors. Grade and purity play a key role—higher-grade material with minimal impurities typically commands a premium, especially for high-spec applications. Particle size also matters; finer, more uniform particles are often preferred in specialized industries like pharmaceuticals and electronics, influencing price upward. Supply dynamics are geographically dependent—regions rich in zinc resources or with efficient production infrastructure tend to offer more competitive pricing. Market demand shifts with industrial activity, particularly in sectors like construction, chemicals, and energy. Finally, broader economic conditions—including inflation, currency fluctuations, and trade policies—add another layer of volatility, making zinc oxide a commodity sensitive to both micro- and macro-level forces.
Effective negotiation is key to securing favorable zinc oxide prices, and a strategic approach can make a significant difference. Start by researching current market prices to establish a solid baseline—this knowledge gives you a stronger position at the negotiating table. If you’re purchasing in large volumes, use that scale as leverage to request better rates. It’s also wise to explore alternative suppliers; having multiple options increases your bargaining power. Long-term contracts can offer pricing stability and potential discounts, while negotiating favorable payment terms—such as early payment discounts or extended credit—can improve your financial flexibility. Lastly, always assess supplier reliability, including their quality control and delivery performance, to ensure overall value beyond just price.
The zinc oxide market is undergoing dynamic changes, with several emerging trends poised to shape future pricing. Construction activity remains a key driver—expanding infrastructure and residential development are expected to boost demand, potentially pushing prices upward. Similarly, increased oil and gas exploration could heighten the use of zinc oxide in drilling fluids, adding further pressure on supply. Industrial diversification, with new applications in rubber, plastics, and coatings, is also expanding the demand base. On the supply side, technological advancements in extraction and processing could enhance efficiency and potentially stabilize or reduce costs. However, stricter environmental regulations may increase production expenses, contributing to upward price pressure. Meanwhile, market competition plays a balancing role—greater competition could temper price increases, while consolidation may tighten supply and elevate prices. Together, these trends underscore a market in transition, where both demand-side and supply-side forces will dictate the pricing trajectory.
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