In Germany, Cyclohexane prices gained ground in November 2025, growing by 1% and 2.11% respectively week on week, driven by higher benzene feedstock prices, in spite of the more general multiple challenges the chemical industry in the country was facing.
German Cyclohexane market observed a strong price trend in the whole November 2025 as its market fundamentals were influenced by the complex situation of feedstock and the industry. The prices of Cyclohexane were stable in the first week of the month, then a gain of 1% was recorded in mid-November, and then further upside of 2.11% was reported in the latter half of the month. These price rises came in the wake of ongoing pressure on the German chemicals manufacturing industry.
Benzene, the main raw material in the production of Cyclohexane, was a major pricing factor in the market in the month of November. Benzene prices showed some recovery after being volatile earlier in the quarter, as prices increased by 1% in mid-November and soared 5.7% in the final week. This rising feedstock cost trend basis supported Cyclohexane prices as the producers were faced with rising cost of inputs, which forced them to hike the product quotes.
The German chemicals industry remained under heavy pressure in November 2025, with business confidence plunging further. Production is still restrained, with utilization rates of capacity well below long term average levels. Volatile energy prices, stronger competition abroad and declining demand from downstream application industries such as automotive and textiles, formed an unfavourable business climate. These factors led Cyclohexane market players to cautiously align production with demand.
Consumption in the downstream for Cyclohexane was markedly weaker in the month. The dominant use segment for Cyclohexane is the production of caprolactam, which is a key raw material for the production of nylon 6. However, the European caprolactam market came under significant downward pressure in November, with prices falling sharply amid reduced demand and supply glut. The automotive industry stayed prudent in buying though it was a major buyer of nylon parts, while the performance of textiles was average due to weak consumer spending and high levels of inventories. These downstream challenges limited overall Cyclohexane usage despite rising feedstock costs.
The Cyclohexane supply in the German market was stable through November, though the production dynamics at the regional level were different. Export sales of the large European producers were challenged by Asian suppliers, meanwhile import flows were based on domestic demand. The market followed its traditional seasonal pattern towards the end of the year with buyers cautiously managing their stocks during a time of economic uncertainty and changing cost structures.
Looking to December 2025 and January 2026, market participants expect further fluctuations in the price of Cyclohexane amidst many factors. Benzene feedstock trends will continue to be important in light of crude oil price swings and naphtha cracker utilisation rates in Europe. Downstream Cyclohexane demand from nylon producers could weaken during the year-end, potentially recovering in early 2026.
