For the Quarter Ending June 2025
Asia-Pacific (APAC)
• Pentaerythritol Price Index in APAC sustained an upward trajectory throughout the quarter, with prices rising in April and May before stabilizing in June. The quarter registered an overall incline of 8.4%. In April, increased pre-holiday stocking activity and stable cosmetics and coatings demand buoyed prices. However, this bullishness was tempered by weak demand from construction and automotive sectors. May extended gains, supported by continued interest from pharmaceuticals and eco-friendly coatings, even as upstream feedstock support remained muted. By June, prices stabilized amid balanced demand and steady feedstock availability, despite minor fluctuations in logistics and export performance.
• Why did the price of Pentaerythritol change in July 2025 in China? In early July 2025, Pentaerythritol prices remained stable amid muted market action, following a sustained 12-week bullish trend. Supply-demand dynamics were balanced, with steady offtakes for alkyd resins and polyesters in coatings and automotive applications. Meanwhile, feedstock Formaldehyde costs dipped due to lower Methanol prices, softening cost pressures. As inventory, production, and demand signals aligned, prices exhibited a rangebound pattern.
• The Pentaerythritol Price Forecast for early Q3 suggests a firm to rangebound outlook, driven by resilient demand from the paints & coatings and pharmaceutical industries. Continued momentum in electric vehicles, low-VOC coatings, and high-performance skincare formulations will underpin consumption, while cost-side stability and stable feedstock availability may restrict further sharp gains.
• Pentaerythritol Production Cost Trend remained steady through Q2. Although upstream Methanol costs dropped, reducing feedstock Formaldehyde prices, rising freight costs and logistical disruptions in June offset these gains. Improved vessel availability mid-quarter was later challenged by container shortages and rerouting activity, keeping delivery costs elevated across Asia.
• Pentaerythritol Demand Outlook stayed firm across Q2, supported by the cosmetics, pharmaceutical, and coatings sectors. Interest in bio-based and multifunctional formulations boosted offtakes in personal care, while electric vehicle growth and sustainable construction sustained PU foam and alkyd resin demand. Despite economic headwinds, buyers continued procuring steadily, aided by innovation-led formulation demand.
• Export activity from China to regional and international markets remained moderate to strong. Increased bookings to Southeast Asia, India, and the Americas in June were facilitated by improved shipping schedules. However, congestion at key ports and freight volatility challenged exporters, limiting large-scale dispatches despite strong order flows.
• Domestic procurement in China held steady, especially from the coatings and personal care industries in the coastal and central regions. Robust demand from downstream industries and continued regulatory push for sustainable materials ensured stable inland movement. Strategic inventory planning ahead of trade policy shifts added to local buying resilience.
North America
• Pentaerythritol Price Index in North America rose by 0.8% quarter-on-quarter. The quarter began with a bullish uptick in April as producers raised quotations amid firm demand from polyurethane (PU) foam applications and rising feedstock Formaldehyde costs. Despite broader stagnation in construction and housing, steady automotive and appliance manufacturing supported PU output. May saw a slight correction as demand from paints and coatings softened, and cost pressures eased. By June, the market stabilized with balanced production and consistent usage in coatings and personal care, despite external challenges including tariff headwinds and logistical disruptions.
• Why did the price of Pentaerythritol change in July 2025 in the U.S.? In early July 2025, the Price Index remained largely stable, continuing a 12-week sideways pattern. Feedstock Formaldehyde costs held steady amid softer upstream Methanol prices, while supply-demand dynamics were balanced across PU foam and coatings segments. Despite new trade restrictions, logistics bottlenecks, and cost volatility, demand for high-performance, low-VOC formulations in construction and automotive coatings helped maintain pricing equilibrium through late July.
• According to the Pentaerythritol Price Forecast, prices are expected to remain rangebound through mid-Q3. While feedstock cost trends and tariff policies pose upside risk, muted export activity and balanced domestic procurement from PU and coatings sectors suggest limited price movement. The interplay of inflationary cost pressures and cautious downstream offtake will likely keep spot values stable in the near term.
• The Pentaerythritol Production Cost Trend remained steady throughout Q2. Feedstock Formaldehyde availability was consistent, though impacted by weaker Methanol flows and supply chain disruptions tied to tariff policies. June saw higher logistics costs due to port congestion and geopolitical tensions, but regional warehousing strategies and digital supply chain solutions helped offset some inflationary pressures.
• The Pentaerythritol Demand Outlook was stable but cautious across Q2. In cosmetics and personal care, affordability-driven buying supported steady usage despite restrained consumer spending. In coatings, demand was underpinned by increased activity in infrastructure and auto sectors, where alkyd and polyester resin formulations remained critical. Broader economic uncertainty tempered aggressive restocking, but essential applications ensured sustained baseline offtake.
• Imports into the U.S. remained steady through Q2, though trade activity was challenged by new tariffs and shipping delays. The “Liberation Day” policy and suspension of the de minimis exemption impacted inbound flows and payment terms, particularly for Asian suppliers. Port congestion, freight rate volatility, and extended lead times led many buyers to favor domestic sourcing and diversify inventory management strategies.
• U.S. production and supply levels held stable through the quarter. Output remained consistent amid firm Formaldehyde supply and steady demand from key segments like PU foam and alkyd resins. Automotive production gains and coatings usage in industrial applications supported local drawdown, even as trade uncertainty and external shocks complicated broader supply dynamics. Heading into Q3, balanced fundamentals and moderate restocking behavior continue to support a rangebound outlook.
Europe
• Pentaerythritol Price Index in Europe rose by 8.1% quarter-on-quarter. The quarter opened with a sharp uptick in April, driven by firm demand from PU foam producers and strong offtake in automotive and construction sectors. Balanced market fundamentals and steady Formaldehyde costs supported bullish momentum. In May, the market saw a brief pause amid post-holiday slowdowns, subdued construction activity, and buyer caution. June stabilized, as consistent demand from the paints, coatings, and cosmetics sectors, alongside steady production and logistics resilience, maintained a flat pricing trend.
• Why did the price of Pentaerythritol change in July 2025 in Europe? In early July 2025, the Price Index remained rangebound, reflecting a continuation of the mixed 12-week sideways pattern. Demand for alkyd resins and polyester formulations remained steady, supported by sustained usage in eco-friendly coatings and automotive interiors. Although feedstock Formaldehyde costs softened slightly amid easing Methanol prices, logistical friction—driven by labor shortages and fuel cost increases—contributed to marginal cost tension. Overall, stable production, balanced stocks, and modest procurement kept spot values steady.
• The Pentaerythritol Price Forecast for early Q3 suggests a rangebound to slightly firm trajectory. Continued downstream demand from PU foam, personal care, and coatings sectors is expected to support pricing, particularly as infrastructure projects and EV production persist. However, rising logistics costs, regulatory constraints, and uneven consumer sentiment across Western Europe may limit upside, maintaining narrow trading bands.
• The Pentaerythritol Production Cost Trend remained broadly stable throughout Q2. While upstream Methanol weakness in May provided temporary relief, rising freight expenses and regulatory-driven toll adjustments in June offset gains. Despite production continuity and feedstock availability, inland waterway disruptions and rail bottlenecks elevated operational costs, with producers selectively passing increases to downstream buyers.
• The Pentaerythritol Demand Outlook in Europe stayed firm across Q2. In the cosmetics sector, resilient demand for high-performance skincare and sustainable formulations supported steady drawdowns, particularly amid reformulation initiatives to meet EU ingredient regulations. Paints and coatings consumption was sustained by infrastructure work, automotive manufacturing, and growing preference for low-VOC, high-durability products. Together, these dynamics underpinned consistent industrial offtake despite macroeconomic volatility.
• European imports and internal trade flows remained constrained by logistical bottlenecks throughout Q2. Congestion at key ports—especially Antwerp, Hamburg, and Bremerhaven—was exacerbated by labor shortages and strikes. Regulatory toll changes in Denmark and the Netherlands, coupled with persistent Rhine River shipping limitations, further delayed movement. These issues impacted delivery timelines and increased landed costs, though strategic warehousing and alternative routing helped mitigate disruptions.
• Demand from Western Europe remained stable through late June, supported by automotive sector restocking and coatings demand tied to summer construction activity. The push for sustainable coatings and digital-led personalization in cosmetics sustained Pentaerythritol usage in advanced formulations. Meanwhile, broader adoption of electric vehicles and weight-reduction initiatives in auto interiors continued to support its role in flame-retardant PU foams and polyester resins, reinforcing steady demand across the region.
Middle East
• Pentaerythritol Price Index in the Middle East rose by 1.5% quarter-on-quarter. The quarter commenced steadily in April, with FOB Al Jubail prices assessed at USD 1420/MT, supported by firm demand from polyurethane foam manufacturers in the construction and automotive sectors. Balanced demand-supply fundamentals and softened cost support from feedstock Formaldehyde due to sluggish MDI demand kept pricing stable through the month. May saw marginal improvement, with quotations ticking up to USD 1422/MT amid limited feedstock availability and moderate trade activity. By June-end, the market firmed up further, with prices rising to USD 1433/MT, backed by sustained demand in cosmetics and paints sectors, strong exports, and logistical efficiency, pushing the quarterly index higher.
• Why did the price of Pentaerythritol change in July 2025 in the Middle East?
In early July 2025, the Price Index remained stable, with FOB Al Jubail prices holding at USD 1440/MT. Despite rising demand from alkyd resin and polyester manufacturers for eco-friendly coatings and packaging applications, the market-maintained equilibrium. Adequate feedstock availability, firm yet balanced inventories, and continued offtakes from construction and personal care segments supported price stability through mid-July.
• According to the Pentaerythritol Price Forecast, prices are expected to stay rangebound through Q3, with limited upside potential. While stronger global demand for low-VOC coatings and energy-efficient PU foams may support consumption, the presence of balanced inventories and moderate feedstock cost pressure could cap sharp gains. Stable demand from packaging, infrastructure, and automotive industries is likely to preserve market balance in the coming months.
• The Pentaerythritol Production Cost Trend showed mixed movement during Q2. Early-quarter relief came from declining upstream Methanol prices and easing logistics costs. However, June witnessed upward cost pressure due to firm Formaldehyde prices amid feedstock supply tightening. By July, input cost volatility remained moderate, with efficient port operations and steady domestic production cushioning overall cost increases.
• The Pentaerythritol Demand Outlook was muted in early Q2 but improved by June. Initial weakness in construction and automotive sectors dampened procurement. However, demand rebounded as cosmetics and paints sectors gained momentum, driven by consumer interest in halal-certified and AI-personalized beauty products, and sustainable coatings technologies. Steady growth in EV production and public infrastructure further supported consistent PU foam offtakes.
• Imports into Saudi Arabia remained consistent throughout Q2, with stable inflows sustaining market balance. Early-quarter oversupply and buyer conservatism capped price movement. However, robust downstream demand and increased container volumes in June supported recovery. By July, trade momentum and infrastructure efficiency ensured steady import rhythms, buffering against regional cost shocks.
• Domestic supply in Saudi Arabia was primarily import-driven, with over 75% sourced from global suppliers. April and May faced surplus conditions due to early inventory buildup, but offtakes gained strength by June. As July began, balanced supply-demand fundamentals and steady offtakes kept prices stable. Continued monitoring of global Formaldehyde trends and downstream expansion will remain crucial for assessing Q3 market shifts.
For the Quarter Ending March 2025
North America
The Pentaerythritol (PENT) market in North America experienced a moderate to bullish price trend in Q1 2025. Early in the quarter, prices increased due to stressed supply availability, driven by reduced production rates and higher input costs during winter. Additionally, support from upstream Methanol costs further pushed prices upward. Demand from the automotive sector remained steady, driven by the consistent use of Polyurethane foams in vehicle manufacturing, although automotive sales showed mixed performance.
The price trend remained stable through mid-quarter, despite disruptions such as the Arctic Blast, which caused production setbacks and port congestion, leading to supply challenges. This, combined with concerns over potential future shortages, supported price stability. Demand from downstream industries like cosmetics and paints remained moderate, with the U.S. cosmetics sector showing growth, especially in eco-friendly fragrances, while the paints sector continued to demand Pentaerythritol for eco-friendly coatings.
The quarter concluded with a stable price trend as demand dynamics remained balanced, despite tariff-related uncertainties and logistical issues. The demand for Pentaerythritol from downstream sectors continued at a moderate pace, supported by growth in the cosmetics and paints industries, particularly driven by sustainability trends. Overall, the quarter ended with a stable to slightly bullish price trend.
APAC
During the first quarter of 2025, the Pentaerythritol (PENT) market in Asia exhibited a moderate to bullish price trend, influenced by steady demand and fluctuating feedstock costs. Early in the quarter, prices rose due to strong demand from alkyd resin manufacturers, particularly in the automotive and coatings sectors. China's automotive exports fueled demand for Pentaerythritol in paints and coatings, leading to a positive price movement. However, towards the end of January, prices stabilized as feedstock costs from Formaldehyde remained steady, and demand from downstream sectors like FMCG and PU foam manufacturers showed only modest growth. In mid-Q1, Pentaerythritol prices remained stable, despite some weakening in the manufacturing sector due to China's economic slowdown and geopolitical tensions, including new U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods. These factors affected export growth yet demand from key sectors like cosmetics and paints remained stable. Towards the end of Q1, Pentaerythritol prices continued to follow a moderate to bullish trend as feedstock costs increased, particularly for Formaldehyde and Methanol. While the property sector slowdown in China slightly dampened demand for architectural coatings, robust growth in electric vehicle production supported high-performance coatings, sustaining Pentaerythritol demand. Overall, the quarter concluded with a moderate to bullish price trend, driven by consistent demand from key industries.
Europe
In the first quarter of 2025, the Pentaerythritol (PENT) price trend in Europe showed stability with minor fluctuations influenced by varying demand and supply chain disruptions. The quarter began with a slight decline in the prices, driven by moderate demand from sectors like alkyd resins and automotive, alongside increased production costs from rising feedstock prices, particularly Formaldehyde. However, by the end of the month, prices stabilized despite a sluggish economic recovery in the Eurozone and subdued demand. In the mid-quarter, the price trend remained steady, supported by signs of stabilization in the Eurozone's manufacturing sector and consistent demand from industries like cosmetics, paints & coatings, and automotive. Supply disruptions due to severe weather and port delays had some impact, but they were balanced by steady demand and moderate export growth. The quarter concluded with stable prices, with production levels affected by limited availability of Formaldehyde and higher input costs. Demand was steady, though softness in the premium cosmetics sector due to weak consumer sentiment and geopolitical tensions was noted. Despite challenges in supply chains, particularly port congestion and labor strikes, the inks and coatings industry showed resilience, bolstering overall demand. By the quarter's end, prices remained steady, reflecting the balance of supply and demand in a disrupted market.
Middle East
For the first quarter of 2025, the price trend of Pentaerythritol (PENT) in the Middle East demonstrated a steady but slightly bearish to stable movement. At the beginning of the quarter, prices remained stagnant, with stable demand from the automotive sector and moderate orders from alkyd resin manufacturers. However, a decline in upstream Methanol prices and eased cost support from feedstock Formaldehyde led to downward pressure on production costs, limiting any significant price increase. The trend continued into the mid-quarter, where prices saw a minor decline, driven by sluggish demand in key sectors such as cosmetics, personal care, and automotive. Despite the growing beauty market in the region and ongoing automotive developments in Saudi Arabia, Pentaerythritol demand in PU foam remained moderate, contributing to price softening. Towards the end of Q1, Pentaerythritol prices stabilized again, rolling over from previous weeks. The demand from key sectors, such as paints and coatings (driven by Vision 2030 projects) and the growing cosmetics market, remained moderate but steady. The surge in export container traffic and stable feedstock supply helped maintain a balanced market. While cost support from Formaldehyde remained stable, the decline in upstream Methanol prices continued to exert a limiting effect on price movements.
For the Quarter Ending December 2024
North America
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Pentaerythritol (PENT) market showed a bullish trend, with a 12% increase from the previous quarter. Production rates remained stable, supported by moderate feedstock availability, though limited formaldehyde supply and rising energy costs contributed to upward pressure on prices. Despite these challenges, the market maintained steady demand, particularly from the U.S. construction sector, which drove consistent consumption for adhesives and sealants.
The paints and coatings sector also saw increased demand, bolstered by a strategic shift toward environmentally friendly coatings and a surge in e-commerce sales. The U.S. cosmetics sector contributed to growth, fueled by consumer preference for premium products during the holiday season, with mobile-driven shopping experiences boosting sales.
While global export demand softened, particularly in Europe and Australia, U.S. domestic consumption remained firm, helping to sustain the upward trend in the market. The combination of steady demand from key sectors such as construction, paints, and cosmetics, along with rising production costs, contributed to the overall 12% growth in the Pentaerythritol market.
APAC
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Pentaerythritol market saw a 4% decrease from the previous quarter. The decline was influenced by mixed demand dynamics and supply-side challenges. Production remained moderate, hindered by limited feedstock availability, particularly formaldehyde, and rising energy costs. Logistics were further disrupted by Typhoon Kong-Rey and the approaching Chinese New Year, causing delays in shipments and production. Demand for Pentaerythritol was steady in the cosmetics sector, with increased consumption driven by winter skincare needs. However, demand in the construction sector softened due to weak market activity and stagnant new orders, reducing the use of Pentaerythritol in adhesives and sealants. In the paints and coatings sector, automotive OEM and marine coatings showed growth, but the decorative segment struggled, impacted by the real estate downturn. While China’s export volumes increased, the overall growth was slower than in previous months due to weaker global demand. As a result, Pentaerythritol prices declined by 4% in the fourth quarter, with supply chain disruptions and rising production costs weighing on the market. The combination of softer demand in key sectors and logistical challenges contributed to the price decrease.
Europe
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Pentaerythritol (PENT) market saw a 2% price increase compared to the previous quarter, driven by mixed demand and supply chain disruptions. Production remained stable despite challenges such as fluctuating feedstock availability, particularly formaldehyde, and rising energy costs. A storm in northern Germany caused significant disruptions in supply chains, affecting key seaport access, and limiting formaldehyde supplies, resulting in temporary production constraints. Demand showed mixed trends. The construction sector remained weak, with lower demand for Pentaerythritol in adhesives and sealants due to economic uncertainties and high borrowing costs. On the other hand, the automotive sector saw growth, especially for coatings used in electric vehicles, which boosted demand for PENT. The cosmetics sector also remained a steady driver, as Pentaerythritol was used in premium products as a humectant and stabilizer. While the paints and coatings sector faced some challenges, strategic shifts by major players like AkzoNobel and BASF helped moderate demand. Despite ongoing supply chain disruptions and logistical issues in Europe, Pentaerythritol prices experienced a slight increase, supported by steady demand in the automotive and cosmetics sectors, along with constrained supply availability.
Middle East
In the fourth quarter of 2024, the Pentaerythritol (PENT) market displayed a bullish trend, with a marginal 2% increase compared to the previous quarter. The market remained relatively stable, supported by balanced demand-supply dynamics. Production rates were intermediate, with feedstock availability being moderate. However, supply chain disruptions, particularly in key ports, and rising energy costs contributed to an increase in production costs. Demand for Pentaerythritol remained steady, with moderate orders from various sectors. The paints and coatings sector in the Middle East saw strong demand, driven by large-scale infrastructure projects, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Additionally, the automotive sector continued to contribute to demand, particularly in coatings for electric vehicles. On the other hand, demand in the agrochemical sector remained stable, though slower due to seasonal shifts in crop cultivation. The export market saw a slight decline, but supplies remained firm for importers, with some disruptions in the supply chain due to weather-related issues and logistical constraints. Despite these challenges, the market showed resilience, with demand from key sectors, particularly paints and coatings, propelling the overall price increase. The Pentaerythritol market remained optimistic heading into the next quarter, with the expectation of sustained demand from infrastructure development and industrial applications.
For the Quarter Ending September 2024
North America
In Q3 2024, Pentaerythritol (PENT) pricing in North America experienced a notable increase, influenced by several key factors shaping market dynamics. Stability in demand from various industries, including coatings, plastics, pharmaceuticals, and specialty chemicals, significantly supported the upward price trend. Additionally, improved production capacity and effective supply chain management helped maintain a balanced market, even in the face of rising energy costs and inflationary pressures. The quarter saw a 6% increase from the previous quarter, reflecting positive momentum and resilience despite fluctuating production costs and demand patterns.
In the USA specifically, the market experienced the most significant price fluctuations, with a 9% difference between the first and second halves of the quarter. This trend highlights how responsive prices are to changes in demand-supply dynamics and variations in production costs.
By the end of the quarter, the price for Pentaerythritol (PENT) FOB Texas in the USA was recorded at USD 2,110/MT. This figure underscores the overall positive pricing environment, emphasizing the market's stability and potential for continued growth.
APAC
In Q3 2024, Pentaerythritol (PENT) pricing in the APAC region saw a significant decline, driven by several key factors. The market was affected by stable supply levels, moderate demand, and fluctuations in production costs. Sluggish demand from downstream industries, reduced consumption in key sectors, and stable feedstock prices all contributed to the overall downward trend in prices. Notably, China experienced the most significant price changes, with a consistent decline throughout the quarter. The correlation between price changes and seasonality became evident as the market faced various challenges. When comparing this quarter to the same period last year, prices dropped by 11%, highlighting the ongoing downward trend. Additionally, the quarter-on-quarter change of 5% further emphasized the declining pricing sentiment. In the second half of the quarter, prices experienced a notable decrease of 5%, culminating in a quarter-ending price of USD 1,410/MT for Pentaerythritol FOB-Tianjin in China. This figure reflects a negative pricing environment characterized by continued price reductions.
Europe
Throughout Q3 2024, the pricing environment for Pentaerythritol (PENT) in the European region has been marked by a steady upward trend, driven by several key factors. Stable demand from major industries, such as alkyd resin and plasticizer manufacturers, along with seasonal fluctuations that affected supply dynamics, played significant roles. Additionally, support from feedstock Formaldehyde costs contributed to the overall rise in market prices, reflecting a positive pricing environment. In Germany, the market witnessed the most pronounced price changes, with a 9% increase compared to the same quarter last year and a 5% rise from the previous quarter in 2024. There was also a 4% price difference observed between the first and second halves of the quarter, further illustrating the upward momentum. By the end of the quarter, the price for Pentaerythritol (PENT) FOB Hamburg in Germany reached USD 1,900/MT. This figure underscores the overall positive pricing sentiment prevalent in the region, highlighting the consistent upward trajectory of prices throughout Q3.
MEA
Throughout Q3 2024, Pentaerythritol (PENT) prices in the MEA region exhibited a steady upward trend, indicating a positive pricing environment. Several factors contributed to this increase in market prices during the quarter. Demand from key sectors, including pharmaceuticals, specialty chemicals, and construction, played a significant role in driving prices higher. Additionally, stable supply levels and enhanced logistical infrastructure supported this price growth. The market saw a 4% increase compared to the same quarter last year, reflecting sustained growth, while an 8% rise from the previous quarter in 2024 highlighted the escalating price trend. Furthermore, the 3% price variance between the first and second halves of the quarter demonstrated a consistent increase in prices. In Saudi Arabia, the market experienced the most significant price changes, ending the quarter at USD 1,400/MT for Pentaerythritol FOB Al Jubail. This ongoing price appreciation in the region signifies a robust and stable pricing environment for Pentaerythritol.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. What is the current price of Pentaerythritol (PENT) in APAC?
In early July 2025, Pentaerythritol prices in China stood at USD 1625/MT FOB-Tianjin.
2. What is the current price of Pentaerythritol (PENT) in North America?
In early July 2025, Pentaerythritol prices in the USA stood at approximately USD 2530/MT FOB Texas.
3. What is the current price of Pentaerythritol (PENT) in Europe?
In early July 2025, Pentaerythritol prices in Germany stood at approximately USD 1922/MT FOB Hamburg.
4. What is the current price of Pentaerythritol (PENT) in the Middle East?
In early July 2025, Pentaerythritol prices in Saudi Arabia stood at approximately USD 1440/MT FOB Al Jubail.
5. Why did Fatty Alcohol prices change in July 2025?
o APAC: Prices remained stable amid sustained demand from PU foam and coatings industries. Balanced supply and steady feedstock trends helped maintain equilibrium.
o North America: Market steadiness continued, with firm offtakes from resin and personal care sectors. Adequate inventories and stable production rates countered feedstock cost shifts.
o Europe: Prices held firm as downstream demand from architectural coatings and industrial applications remained consistent. Balanced supply-demand dynamics supported stability.
o Middle East: PENT prices remained rangebound. Robust demand from alkyd resin and PU foam producers, along with consistent Formaldehyde availability, sustained market balance.
