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Phenol Price Trend and Forecast

⟳ Weekly Update
|
Historical Data Since 2015
|
Forecast for 2026

phenol Markets Covered:

auAustralia
beBelgium
brBrazil
caCanada
cnChina
fiFinland
deGermany
inIndia
idIndonesia
jpJapan
myMalaysia
mxMexico
nlNetherlands
sgSingapore
krKorea
thThailand
usUnited States

Global phenol Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, the Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) market recorded a mild reduction in prices with South Korea FOB Busan at $1015/MT, a drop of -2.40% compared to the previous quarter. The drop came due to a marginal fall in demand after the holiday season, mostly from the Packaging and Construction segments. Though tight supply did exist, the high cost of production as well as overall global economic instability saw a drop in price. Also, logistical issues in major production areas kept impacting the supply chain, causing inefficiencies in distribution and production, which prevented prices from increasing any further. Nevertheless, the market was quite stable as demand from necessary industries such as Medical and Consumer Goods kept offering some support. 

In Q1 2025, India Ex-Kandla Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices dipped again to $960/MT, a –11.93% drop from Q4 2024. The market remained subdued with low demand from major sectors since most industries tend to move slowly in the first quarter of the year. Elevated inventory levels and nervous buyer sentiment because of recent price volatilities also led to the price decline. Most buyers waited and watched, further suppressing prices. 

PhenolTrend Analysis: Q2 2025

In Q1 2025, the Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) market recorded a mild reduction in prices with South Korea FOB Busan at $1015/MT, a drop of -2.40% compared to the previous quarter. The drop came due to a marginal fall in demand after the holiday season, mostly from the Packaging and Construction segments. Though tight supply did exist, the high cost of production as well as overall global economic instability saw a drop in price. Also, logistical issues in major production areas kept impacting the supply chain, causing inefficiencies in distribution and production, which prevented prices from increasing any further. Nevertheless, the market was quite stable as demand from necessary industries such as Medical and Consumer Goods kept offering some support. 

In Q1 2025, India Ex-Kandla Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices dipped again to $960/MT, a –11.93% drop from Q4 2024. The market remained subdued with low demand from major sectors since most industries tend to move slowly in the first quarter of the year. Elevated inventory levels and nervous buyer sentiment because of recent price volatilities also led to the price decline. Most buyers waited and watched, further suppressing prices. 

Phenol Trend Analysis: Q4 2024

South Korea FOB Busan Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices were still appreciated in Q4 2024 to reach $1040/MT, an increase of 2.71% over Q3. Demand from Packaging and Construction grew even stronger during the period as consumers prepared to purchase more just ahead of festive holidays. An appreciation in the costs of feedstock, and particularly benzene, which is key for Phenol manufacture, only exacerbated supply tightening. Stricter environmental regulations in major countries such as the USA and South Korea also contributed to increased costs of production and lower output. These, coupled with increasing energy prices, are factors that contributed to the ongoing upward pressure on prices. 

By Q4 2024, Ex-Kandla Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices fell to $1090/MT, down –7.63% from Q3. Even though there were high hopes of high demand during the festive season, actual buying failed to live up to earlier estimates. Most downstream participants had already stocked up in Q3, resulting in a surplus situation. Coupled with year-end slowdowns and less industrial activity, this resulted in a weakening in the market. 

By Q3 2024 early, South Korea FOB Busan Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices started to recover, hitting $1013/MT in July, up by 6.14% from the month before. This increase in price was mainly attributed to a recovery in demand from the Automotive and Electronics industries as economic conditions improved globally, and consumer demand picked up. Moreover, global tightness in supply was caused by maintenance shutdowns in principle producing areas, which, together with increasing crude oil prices, placed pressure on Phenol production costs in the upward direction. APAC freight rates were also high and contributed to overall price increases. 

During Q3 2024, Ex-Kandla Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices went up to $1180/MT, demonstrating a +0.85% growth compared to the last quarter. Healthy domestic consumption, particularly in the laminate and real estate-related industries, continued to pick up after the monsoons. Despite the moderate growth in demand, limited vessel arrival and minor delay at Kandla port caused a contained supply scenario. This supported the market and did not allow prices to plummet drastically. 

During Q2 2024, the downward price trend in South Korea FOB Busan persisted, with Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices dropping to $954/MT, a marginal decline of -1.14% compared to Q1. The continued weakness in demand from the Automotive and Electronics sectors, coupled with ongoing supply chain disruptions, was the reason for this price drop. Rising production capacities in Thailand and Singapore also contributed to the competitive market environment, exerting downward pressure on prices. Conversely, in North America, the Medical and Consumer Goods sectors had very strong demand that kept any significant price falls from occurring. Moderate fluctuations in Europe were mostly a result of domestic supply constraints and issues related to new regulations. 

In Q2 2024, Ex-Kandla Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices went up to $1170/MT, representing a +7.34% increase from Q1. The price rise was underpinned by robust seasonal demand in the manufacturing and construction industries, especially in commodities such as plywood, coatings, and industrial resins. Increase in infrastructure activity, coupled with imbalanced vessel schedules and increasing port congestion, drove up the cost. Overall domestic demand was robust, and it helped support the bullish trend. 

During Q1 2024, the Phenol market across the world experienced mixed trends in different regions. In South Korea FOB Busan, Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) prices were $965/MT, registering a sharp fall of -11.55% compared to the last quarter. The fall was primarily influenced by softening demand from major industry sectors such as Automotive and Electronics, which usually consume Phenol in huge quantities to manufacture Plastics and Resins. Furthermore, supply chain problems and decreased feedstock prices were also responsible for the price decline. Nevertheless, in the USA, Thailand, and Singapore, the market was quite stable, thanks to moderate demand from the Construction and Packaging industries, which stabilized prices in these areas. 

 

In Q1 2024, the Indian Phenol (Industrial Grade Purity: >99.5%) market (Ex-Kandla) registered a minor decline with prices at $1090/MT, registering a –0.46% decrease compared to the last quarter. The fall was primarily caused by demand stabilization from downstream industries such as laminates, resins, and pharmaceuticals. Most producers were running with adequate inventory inherited from the fourth quarter of 2023, lowering the urgency of immediate buying. Moreover, demand normally dips in the post-festival season, which supports the moderate market activity. 

phenol Parameters Covered: 

  • Propylene 
  • Benzene 
  • Cumene 
  • Belgium 
  • Germany 
  • Finland
  • South Korea
  • Thailand
  • USA
  • Singapore
  • Household cleaners, Industrial detergents, Emulsifiers in agriculture 
  • Aspirin, Antiseptics, Dyes, Herbicides, insecticides 
  • Polycarbonate Plastics, Epoxy Resins 
  • Australia
  • Brazil
  • Canada
  • India
  • Indonesia
  • Malaysia
  • Mexico
  • Netherlands
  • Japan
  • China

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Phenol prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The conflict led to disruptions in energy supplies and feedstock availability, particularly in Europe, resulting in increased Phenol production costs and global price volatility. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): Initially, the pandemic caused a steep drop in demand for Phenol as industries like automotive and construction slowed. However, demand rebounded as the need for packaging materials, disinfectants, and medical equipment surged. 
  • US-China Trade Wars (2018-2019): Geopolitical tensions disrupted global supply chains, increasing uncertainty in the Phenol market and causing price fluctuations due to tariffs and reduced exports. 
  • Global Crude Oil Price Volatility (2015-2022): Fluctuating oil prices during this period had a direct impact on Phenol production costs, causing price variations due to the dependency on petroleum-based feedstocks. 

 

These events highlight the Phenol market’s sensitivity to global disruptions, especially related to energy and supply chain dynamics. Constant monitoring of these factors is crucial for anticipating price movements. 

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Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in Phenol prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022-Present): The conflict led to disruptions in energy supplies and feedstock availability, particularly in Europe, resulting in increased Phenol production costs and global price volatility. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020): Initially, the pandemic caused a steep drop in demand for Phenol as industries like automotive and construction slowed. However, demand rebounded as the need for packaging materials, disinfectants, and medical equipment surged. 
  • US-China Trade Wars (2018-2019): Geopolitical tensions disrupted global supply chains, increasing uncertainty in the Phenol market and causing price fluctuations due to tariffs and reduced exports. 
  • Global Crude Oil Price Volatility (2015-2022): Fluctuating oil prices during this period had a direct impact on Phenol production costs, causing price variations due to the dependency on petroleum-based feedstocks. 

 

These events highlight the Phenol market’s sensitivity to global disruptions, especially related to energy and supply chain dynamics. Constant monitoring of these factors is crucial for anticipating price movements. 

Why PriceWatch?

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

Track PriceWatch's phenol 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: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a wide range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This approach ensures that our Phenol pricing assessments reflect the most up-to-date market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including Phenol producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users across major production hubs. This localized intelligence is essential for understanding specific market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire Phenol supply chain, from the availability of raw materials such as benzene and propylene, to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch closely monitors global geopolitical events, such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and trade disputes, which have the potential to disrupt Phenol production and supply chains. Our analysis evaluates both immediate and long-term effects on Phenol prices. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes, storms, and industrial accidents, particularly in regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast, where Phenol production is concentrated. These events are factored into our pricing forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch analyzes macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand from industries like automotive, construction, and consumer goods, to predict shifts in Phenol demand and price movements.

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

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

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides comprehensive analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including automotive, construction, and chemical manufacturing. We track year-over-year demand growth and forecast future consumption patterns using economic indicators and industry trends. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and their impact on global Phenol pricing. This includes understanding shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations affecting supply and demand.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch uses advanced econometric models to forecast Phenol prices. These models incorporate real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions, and are continuously refined for accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based evaluations to assess potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for various market outcomes. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to provide actionable insights and clear recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support, ensuring that clients have access to the most current information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable Phenol pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make well-informed business decisions. 

Phenol price 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 phenol. 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.

The pricing of phenol is influenced by several key factors, including the cost of feedstocks such as benzene and propylene, fluctuations in crude oil prices, and demand from downstream industries like plastics, resins, and pharmaceuticals. Environmental regulations and production capacity constraints can also impact availability and pricing. Additionally, geopolitical events and supply chain disruptions may lead to price volatility, making it crucial for procurement heads to stay informed about market trends and developments.

Raw material costs, particularly for benzene, play a significant role in determining phenol prices. When the prices of benzene and propylene rise due to increased demand or supply chain issues, phenol prices typically follow suit. Conversely, if raw material costs decrease or if there is an oversupply, phenol prices may decline. Procurement teams should closely monitor raw material markets and establish strong supplier relationships to negotiate better pricing and ensure stable supply.

Phenol prices can vary by region due to differences in raw material availability, production capabilities, and local demand conditions. For example, regions with robust petrochemical industries, like North America and Asia, may have different pricing structures compared to Europe, where regulations can increase production costs. Understanding these regional variations enables procurement heads to optimize sourcing strategies by identifying cost-effective suppliers and potentially leveraging lower-priced markets to improve overall procurement efficiency.

The future pricing of phenol is likely to be influenced by ongoing trends in raw material costs, regulatory changes, and global economic conditions. Procurement heads should anticipate fluctuations caused by changes in crude oil prices, shifts in demand from key industries, and sustainability initiatives affecting production methods. To prepare, procurement teams should actively monitor market reports, consider securing long-term contracts with suppliers, and diversify their sourcing strategies to mitigate risks associated with sudden price increases.

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