News Release: July 30, 2025
Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Price, Production, Latest News and Developments in 2025
Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether price trend and production News
Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Price Trend in the Past Five Years and Factors Impacting Price Movements
Over the last five years, the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether price trend has shown considerable variability, with significant influences from global energy prices, raw material availability, and shifting demand in downstream industries such as coatings, cleaners, and inks. This glycol ether, commonly used as a solvent in various industrial and household applications, is heavily dependent on propylene oxide and butanol, both of which have experienced notable fluctuations in price due to feedstock volatility and transportation costs.
In 2020, the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether price averaged around $1270/MT globally. The COVID-19 pandemic impacted both production and logistics, tightening supply chains and pushing the average price up to nearly $1345/MT by the end of Q4 2020. However, demand remained suppressed during early lockdown periods, preventing prices from spiking further.
In 2021, with economies reopening and construction and cleaning industries regaining momentum, the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether sales volume rose steadily. Supply disruptions in Asia and increased freight charges further contributed to price surges. Prices peaked in Q3 2021 at around $1480/MT. Increased demand from China and Southeast Asia for coating applications, coupled with restricted supply, led to one of the sharpest year-on-year price increases in recent history.
2022 began with moderate stabilization. The Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether price hovered near $1420/MT in Q1. However, surging crude oil prices in mid-2022 caused upward pressure. Feedstock prices for butanol remained high, contributing to a temporary hike. By Q3 2022, prices reached approximately $1525/MT. However, the last quarter saw a mild correction due to declining demand in Europe and better inventory levels, pulling prices back to around $1450/MT.
In 2023, market fluctuations were relatively subdued compared to prior years. With improved raw material availability and lower shipping costs, prices settled between $1380/MT and $1430/MT. The Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether production in North America and the Middle East increased significantly, helping to balance out market pressure from Asia.
By 2024, prices exhibited slight downward movement due to reduced demand from the paints and coatings segment, which faced a slowdown. Prices averaged $1360/MT in Q1 and remained consistent throughout the year, ending near $1345/MT in Q4. The Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Price Trend in 2024 was defined by supply chain stabilization and energy cost normalization.
In 2025, the market entered with prices close to $1320/MT, indicating a mild decline year-over-year. The first half of the year saw moderate demand and stable production levels across Asia and North America. Emerging economies like India, Brazil, and Vietnam started ramping up local Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether production, further easing global dependency on traditional export markets.
The key factors influencing price shifts included crude oil fluctuations, regional production capacities, freight charges, and demand cycles from core industries. Market players continue to monitor feedstock pricing closely, as any disruption in propylene or butanol availability has the potential to significantly impact short-term pricing trends.
Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Price Trend Quarterly Update in $/MT (2024-2025)
Estimated Quarterly Prices for 2024
- Q1 2024: $1360/MT
- Q2 2024: $1350/MT
- Q3 2024: $1340/MT
- Q4 2024: $1345/MT
Estimated Quarterly Prices for 2025 (Projections)
- Q1 2025: $1320/MT
- Q2 2025: $1310/MT
- Q3 2025: $1300/MT
- Q4 2025 (Forecast): $1295/MT
These estimates suggest a consistent, albeit slight, downward movement in the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether price trend, largely influenced by stable raw material supply, increased global production, and relatively flat demand projections.
Global Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Import-Export Business Overview
The global Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether import-export market is defined by strong inter-regional flows, with Asia-Pacific serving as both a major producer and consumer. The trade dynamics of this solvent chemical have evolved considerably since 2020, largely due to geopolitical tensions, energy market shifts, and logistical challenges.
China continues to be the world’s largest producer and exporter of Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether. Its mature production infrastructure and high domestic consumption rates have placed it at the center of global supply networks. In 2023, China exported over 250,000 MT of Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether to markets such as South Korea, India, and the Middle East. The average export price from China during that year was between $1380/MT and $1420/MT.
India, on the other hand, has emerged as a growing importer and is on the verge of transitioning into a key producer. The Indian government has invested in local chemical manufacturing hubs under its “Make in India” initiative, aiming to reduce dependency on imports. In 2024, India imported approximately 80,000 MT, mostly from China and Malaysia. Local production capacities are expected to reach 50,000 MT annually by 2026, reducing future import volumes.
The United States remains one of the largest consumers of Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether, particularly for cleaning products, industrial solvents, and coatings. In 2022, the US imported around 120,000 MT, primarily from Canada and South Korea. However, by 2024, increased domestic production capacity in the Gulf Coast region allowed the US to reduce its imports by nearly 20%, reshaping the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether sales volume distribution in North America.
Europe’s market has undergone a rebalancing. Environmental regulations have affected production rates, with countries like Germany and France reducing output due to emissions caps and rising energy costs. As a result, European imports surged in 2023 and 2024, particularly from Asia. Import prices to the EU in 2024 averaged $1445/MT, making it one of the highest-priced import destinations due to carbon levies and shipping costs.
Latin America, including Brazil and Argentina, has traditionally been a net importer. However, Brazil has taken steps to enhance its Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether production capacity with new mid-scale units expected to come online in 2026. In 2025, Brazilian imports are projected to exceed 60,000 MT, primarily sourced from the United States and China.
Middle Eastern countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have become vital players on the supply side. Leveraging low energy and feedstock costs, these countries have expanded capacity. Saudi Arabia exported nearly 70,000 MT in 2024, mainly to Europe and North Africa. The competitiveness of their pricing—averaging just $1310/MT—makes them attractive trade partners, especially for cost-sensitive regions.
Africa, while still an emerging player, is increasing consumption in industrial and household applications. Egypt and South Africa accounted for the majority of imports in the region in 2024, collectively reaching nearly 30,000 MT. The Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether news in 2025 suggests that African demand is expected to grow at 6% CAGR through 2030, prompting new logistics and distribution investments by Asian exporters.
As of mid-2025, global trade is shaped by improving logistic channels, continued container availability, and digital customs clearance reforms. Countries are also re-negotiating trade agreements to reduce duties on solvent chemicals like Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether. These developments support smoother movement and more competitive pricing across borders.
With shifting trade alliances and increased regional capacities, the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Price Trend in the international market is now more responsive to regional supply-demand dynamics than ever before. Exporters are adjusting pricing strategies quarterly, depending on global freight rates, energy costs, and geopolitical risks.
Furthermore, sustainability initiatives are also influencing export-import balances. Nations with greener manufacturing capabilities are finding favor in markets where end-use consumers are increasingly prioritizing sustainable sourcing. Exporters offering products with lower carbon footprints may benefit from premium pricing or preferred status in tenders.
Looking ahead, 2025 will continue to see strategic investments in production hubs, trade corridor expansion, and possibly, the entry of new producers from regions like Eastern Europe and Southeast Asia.
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Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Production Trends by Geography
The global production landscape for Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether has evolved substantially over the past decade, with several key regions emerging as dominant contributors. These shifts are largely due to changes in raw material access, downstream demand, cost advantages, regulatory environments, and industrial investments.
Asia-Pacific (APAC): The Production Powerhouse
Asia-Pacific is the largest producer of Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether globally, with China, South Korea, and Japan leading the regional output. China stands out as the single largest production hub, supported by its vertically integrated chemical manufacturing ecosystem. With ample access to feedstocks such as propylene oxide and butanol, the Chinese industry benefits from economies of scale and well-established supply chains.
The region’s growth is driven by strong demand from paints, coatings, and cleaning chemicals. Investments in new facilities across Jiangsu, Zhejiang, and Shandong provinces have significantly increased production capacity over the last five years. South Korea and Japan also maintain significant production levels, often exporting high-purity grades to North America and Europe.
India has begun ramping up its domestic manufacturing in response to rising internal demand and to reduce dependency on imports. New plants being commissioned in Gujarat and Maharashtra are expected to bring in a sizable addition to local capacity by 2026.
North America: Mature and Expanding
The United States has long held a steady presence in the global Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether production space. Gulf Coast chemical hubs in Texas and Louisiana have large-scale facilities that not only cater to domestic requirements but also serve international markets. With access to low-cost shale-based feedstock, the US continues to produce competitively priced material.
Over the last two years, U.S.-based producers have expanded capacity to meet increasing demand from the cleaning and industrial solvent sectors. Several mid-size expansions and plant modernization projects are also underway to improve operational efficiency and environmental compliance.
Canada has moderate production capacity focused on specialty chemical applications. Most of its domestic production is consumed locally or exported to the United States.
Europe: Regulation-Driven Realignment
Europe’s role in global Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether production is significant, but shrinking relative to Asia-Pacific. Countries such as Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium host major chemical production clusters. However, environmental regulations, high energy costs, and carbon taxation policies have started to affect competitiveness.
As a result, some European producers are shifting operations or partnering with companies in the Middle East and Asia. Nevertheless, Europe continues to be a leader in high-grade and environmentally friendly variants, catering to industrial applications with stringent quality requirements.
Middle East & Africa: Emerging Export Centers
In recent years, countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE have emerged as growing players in the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether market. These nations leverage low raw material costs and supportive industrial policies to develop export-oriented production bases. Production facilities in the Middle East primarily target customers in Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Africa, while not yet a producer on a significant scale, is seeing increased feasibility assessments for local production in Egypt, South Africa, and Nigeria. These countries may soon attract foreign direct investment for chemical manufacturing due to rising local demand.
Latin America: Moderate but Growing
Brazil is leading production in Latin America, with investments in domestic capacity in response to high import reliance. While current volumes are moderate, Brazil is expected to grow its Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether output over the next five years to cater to domestic markets and nearby countries such as Argentina and Chile.
Mexico, as a part of the North American free trade zone, collaborates closely with U.S.-based chemical producers and has modest local capacity that serves regional demand.
Conclusion
Global production of Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether is increasingly shifting toward Asia-Pacific, driven by cost efficiency and rising demand. North America maintains strong domestic output backed by shale-based feedstocks, while Europe’s regulatory burden may impact its future role. The Middle East is rapidly growing as an export hub, and emerging geographies are preparing to enter the production landscape. These dynamics continue to shape the balance between supply, cost, and market accessibility worldwide.
Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether Market Segmentation
Market Segmentation:
- By Application
- By End-Use Industry
- By Purity/Grade
- By Region
1. By Application
- Solvents
- Cleaners & Degreasers
- Paints & Coatings
- Inks
- Chemical Intermediates
- Others (adhesives, agricultural chemicals)
Explanation:
The solvent segment accounts for the largest share in the global Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether market. It is widely used due to its excellent solvency and low volatility properties. In paints and coatings, it enhances pigment dispersion and helps in smooth film formation, making it indispensable in decorative and industrial coating formulations.
Cleaners and degreasers form another major application segment, especially in household, institutional, and industrial cleaning products. Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether is preferred for its balance between solvency and low odor, making it suitable for glass cleaners, all-purpose sprays, and hard surface cleaners.
Its use as a coalescing agent in waterborne inks is also growing, especially with the global shift toward eco-friendly printing materials. Smaller segments like adhesives and agricultural chemicals are also expanding slowly due to new formulation demands.
2. By End-Use Industry
- Paints & Coatings
- Household & Industrial Cleaning
- Printing & Packaging
- Automotive
- Construction
- Agriculture
- Others
Explanation:
The paints and coatings industry is the dominant end-use sector. With the rise in construction activities, infrastructure development, and automotive production, demand for advanced coating systems has surged. Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether plays a critical role in ensuring durability, uniform finish, and moisture resistance.
The household and industrial cleaning sector has seen remarkable growth, especially since 2020. Heightened hygiene awareness and increased consumption of disinfectants and cleaners have significantly increased the usage of glycol ethers in formulation bases.
The automotive industry uses Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether in surface coatings and cleaning fluids. Demand in this segment is driven by increasing vehicle production, especially electric vehicles that require specialized coatings and maintenance solutions.
In agriculture, the chemical is used in some pesticide formulations, where solubility and mildness are important factors.
3. By Purity/Grade
- Technical Grade
- Industrial Grade
- High Purity/Specialty Grade
Explanation:
Technical and industrial grades dominate the market due to their cost-effectiveness and suitability for general applications. These are widely used in formulations for coatings, cleaners, and intermediates.
High purity grades are limited to sectors with stringent requirements, such as electronics, pharmaceuticals, or specialty coatings. These grades are typically more expensive and produced under tighter controls to ensure consistent performance and minimal impurities.
4. By Region
- Asia-Pacific
- North America
- Europe
- Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
Explanation:
Asia-Pacific is the largest and fastest-growing regional market. High local demand, low production costs, and an expanding end-user base make it a central growth engine for the Propylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether market.
North America follows, supported by robust manufacturing and regulatory compliance. The region also benefits from high awareness regarding sustainable chemical formulations.
Europe maintains a significant market share, especially in high-end applications and specialty grades. However, market growth is limited by stringent environmental policies and high operating costs.
Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are smaller in terms of consumption but are showing promising growth due to industrialization, urbanization, and increasing adoption of advanced chemical products.