ICIS - chemical podcasts Episode 1356: PODCAST: Europe oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets gripped by weak demand
Jun 24, 2025
Weak demand continues to plague Europe’s oxo-alcohols and derivatives markets, particularly affecting automotive and construction sectors. Economic and geopolitical challenges are tightening supply levels and pricing trends. The discussion covers how the Middle East conflict influences market sentiment, pushing reliance on contracted volumes instead of spot trading. Experts analyze the oversupply situation and the low pricing trends for products like butyl acetate, shedding light on potential future implications despite a lack of immediate geopolitical effects.
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Subdued European Oxo-Alcohol Market
- The European oxo-alcohol market remains subdued due to weak demand driven by economic and geopolitical tensions.
- Supply remains ample, with stable prices for imbutanol but some declines for 2-EH and isobutanol amid import competition.
Glycol Ethers Market Mirrors Weakness
- Glycol ethers market in Europe mirrors weak demand trends, notably affected by export challenges and strong euro.
- Supply remains healthy, but geopolitical tensions and trade tariff concerns add uncertainty.
Subdued Acrylic Esters Demand and Supply
- Acrylic acid and esters market faces subdued demand with over 90% of volumes covered by contracts, limiting spot activity.
- Ample supply and typical summer slowdown expect no immediate demand recovery, with feedstock prices closely watched amid geopolitical tensions.