Ethylene Oxide Price Trend Analysis 2026: Price Drivers, Historical Prices, Supply Demand Analysis, Latest News & Market Insights
Ethylene Oxide Price Trend Q1 2026
| Product | Region | Incoterm Basis | Price | Last Updated Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethylene Oxide | China | FOB | USD 1,305.65/MT | April 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | USA | CIF | USD 1,392.65/MT | April 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | Germany | CIF | USD 1,431.93/MT | April 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | India | CIF | USD 1,355.53/MT | April 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | Japan | CIF | USD 1,347.60/MT | April 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | China | FOB | USD 1,059.23/MT | March 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | China | FOB | USD 815.00/MT | February 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | USA | CIF | USD 910.00/MT | February 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | Germany | CIF | USD 930.00/MT | February 2026 |
| Ethylene Oxide | India | CIF | USD 935.00/MT | February 2026 |
Stay updated with the latest Ethylene Oxide prices, historical data, and tailored regional analysis
- Global ethylene oxide prices increased sharply through the quarter, with March seeing the strongest gains due to tight supply and rising upstream costs.
- Feedstock pressure intensified as crude oil and ethylene prices surged, supported by disruptions in key shipping routes and higher import costs.
- Downstream demand remained strong from construction and new energy sectors, with active restocking further pushing prices upward.
Asia
In the Chinese market, ethylene oxide prices increased from ~5.67 RMB/kg (Spot FD) in January to ~7.30 RMB/kg in March, reflecting a ~30.22% rise. The increase was driven by higher crude oil and ethylene prices following disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, which impacted global energy flows and raised feedstock costs. Rising freight rates and logistical disruptions increased the cost of imported ethane, adding further pressure. Supply tightened due to plant maintenance, shutdowns, and reduced operating rates, while strong downstream demand from construction chemicals and battery solvents supported higher procurement. Panic buying further accelerated price increases, with suppliers limiting availability to sustain upward momentum.
Europe
In Q1’26, the ethylene oxide price curve was driven by higher prices for feedstock materials owing to geopolitical tension and disruption of logistics at the Strait of Hormuz in the European region. The price of crude oil rose, increasing production costs, while disruptions and uncertainty in the flow of goods due to tensions further strained supplies. Supply dependence on imports and high energy prices put pressure on manufacturers in favour of increasing the prices.
North America
In the North American markets, the ethylene oxide prices were driven higher amid increased costs for raw materials in response to disruptions in crude oil markets. Logistical pressures and other supply chain disruptions were coupled with shutdowns due to planned maintenance. Downstream demand held steady, which allowed manufacturers to keep pricing firm and consistent with their procurement activities.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, near-term trends indicate that ethylene oxide prices are likely to remain elevated, with fluctuations shaped by feedstock costs and sustained downstream demand.
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Asia
In the second half of 2025, ethylene oxide prices in Asia generally moved downward owing to strong supply pressure. Several new production units started operations during the period, especially in China, which sharply increased availability. Operating rates at domestic crackers remained high, and inventories stayed comfortable, reducing any urgency among buyers. At the same time, downstream demand stayed weak. Key consuming sectors such as construction-related chemicals, surfactants, and polyester chains showed limited recovery. Although energy and utility costs remained stable, they did not provide enough support to stop the price decline. Overall, oversupply combined with weak demand kept market sentiment bearish through H2’25.
Europe
In Europe, ethylene oxide prices showed relatively stable behaviour compared with Asia. Supply conditions remained balanced, as producers aligned operating rates closely with demand. There were no major production disruptions; and also, no aggressive capacity expansion during the period. Downstream demand from detergents, specialty chemicals, and industrial applications remained steady. Buyers showed cautious behaviour due to broader economic uncertainty, which limited price incline. As a result, prices mostly moved sideways, supported by balanced fundamentals rather than strong demand growth.
North America
In North America, ethylene oxide prices softened during H2’25, mainly due to falling feedstock costs and stable supply conditions. Producers benefited from lower upstream costs and maintained steady production levels. Demand from major downstream sectors such as packaging, antifreeze, and industrial cleaning remained mostly stable but did not grow strongly. Seasonal demand offered only limited support, and buyers remained price-sensitive. With no major supply disruptions and well-managed inventories, prices gradually eased.
About Ethylene Oxide
Ethylene Oxide, an organic compound, is a cyclic ether and the simplest epoxide. It is a colourless gas with ether-like odour. It is a versatile compound that is used as an intermediate in the manufacture of other chemicals of industrial importance. One of the most important derivatives of this chemical is ethylene glycol, which is further utilised in the production of PET resin. A small but significant use of the chemical is as a sterilizing agent particularly in the healthcare industry.
Ethylene Oxide Product Detail
C2H4O
Ethylene glycol, Glycol ethers, Ethanolamines, Ethoxylates, Acrylonitrile, Sterilizing and disinfecting agent, Fumigant, Antibiotics
Oxirane, 1,2-Epoxyethane, Epoxyethane, Oxacyclopropane, Dimethylene oxide, Epoxide, EO or EtO
Shell Chemical Company (Royal Dutch Shell Plc), LyondellBasell Industries NV, BASF SE, Linde AG
Regional Coverage
Asia Pacific
Europe
North America
Latin America
Africa
CurrencyUS$ (Data can also be provided in local currency)
Supplier Database AvailabilityYes
Customization ScopeThe report can be customized as per the requirements of the customer
Post-Sale Analyst Support360-degree analyst support after report delivery
Note: Our supplier search experts can assist your procurement teams in compiling and validating a list of suppliers indicating they have products, services, and capabilities that meet your company's needs.
Ethylene Oxide Production Processes
- Production of Ethylene Oxide via Oxidation
In this process, ethylene is utilised as a starting material. It undergoes the oxidation process in the presence of silver catalyst to finally produce Ethylene Oxide.
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Other Related Reports
Mono-Ethylene Glycol (MEG) Production from the Hydrolysis of Ethylene Oxide
This report shows the cost structure of ethylene glycol production from the hydrolysis of ethylene oxide.
2-Amenoethanol Production from Ethylene Oxide
In this process, ethylene oxide is treated with aqueous ammonia to obtain 2-aminoethanol, with diethanolamine and triethanolamine as by-products.
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