During November 2025, Glyoxal prices in China decreased on account of inventory pressure and inconsistent downstream demand, while prices in the U.S. increasing on the back of tighter import availability and stronger demand from construction and textile industries.
In China, glyoxal prices were on a declining path in November under the pressure of robust supply and stagnant demand. A 4.2% slump in monoethylene glycol (MEG) prices cut input costs, allowing smooth production and stable output. But China’s national PMI dropped to 49.9, indicating a contraction in the broader industrial sector and led to pileup of Glyoxal inventories.
Demand conditions were mixed: The paper and packaging segment recovered in anticipation of the e-commerce festival and year-end promotions, prompting replenishment of Glyoxal-based coating materials. But the demand from textile sector was still weak and purchasers among weaving and texturing mills were cautious as they still went for just-in-time purchasing which glyoxal consumption.
There was also only limited further growth in adhesives and coatings as end users again held back from buying more than they needed. As the sourcing season came to an end, the overall Glyoxal market became dull with prices in retreat amid sporadic pockets of demand from the downstream industry.
By contrast, U.S. glyoxal value increased in November due to tight import availability and stronger downstream demand. Domestic production was supported by lower MEG prices which reduced production costs and enabled stable production.
This stability was however counterbalanced by limited imports, as suppliers from Asia and Europe raised their offers on the back of high local costs. A 7% rise in Drewry’s World Container Index contributed to rising freight costs as port congestion caused by severe weather in Asia and disruptions in logistics in Europe led to delayed shipments, supply channels outside became tighter.
On the demand front, infrastructure spending also provided a little support, especially in data center and healthcare construction, which supported demand for adhesives and coatings. Holiday shopping momentum also supported fabric demand as better clothes sales resulted in greater glyoxal use in fabric finishing. Together, these factors reinforced upward price movement in the U.S. market.
Looking ahead, glyoxal prices are expected to remain regionally divergent. In China, the strong integration of feedstock economics and production discipline will continue to be the mainstay of supply, but the weak demand of textiles and the cautious procurement mentality may cap the recovery of supply and price.
On the other hand, in the U.S., limited imports and strong demand from the construction and textile sectors are expected to keep Glyoxal prices firm, although high freight rates and logistical issues may limit further increases. Overall, the global glyoxal market is anticipated to portray a tale of two speeds: China struggling with oversupply and subdued demand, and the U.S. facing constrained supply and robust consumption in peculiar sector.
