Global fatty alcohol prices strengthened during the third quarter of 2025, supported by elevated feedstock costs, steady downstream demand, and firm production activity across major consuming regions, according to IMARC Group’s publication, “Fatty Alcohol Prices, Trend, Index and Forecast Data Report 2025 Edition” with updated insights for Q3 2025. Higher palm kernel and coconut oil values pushed production costs upward, while resilient demand from the detergent, personal care, and surfactant industries kept the market balanced despite logistical challenges and energy price fluctuations.
Prices in September 2025 reflected a tight but steady global supply chain, with sustained industrial consumption and consistent procurement activity in key markets.
United States
Fatty alcohol prices reached USD 2,231/MT, rising compared to the previous quarter. Feedstock costs from palm kernel and coconut oil climbed, leading to higher production expenses. Demand remained steady across detergents, surfactants, and cosmetics, with producers maintaining high utilization rates to meet domestic and export requirements. Freight and inland logistics costs increased as shipping schedules tightened, though consistent industrial demand maintained market stability through Q3 2025.
China
Prices averaged USD 2,180/MT during Q3 2025. Market activity strengthened as downstream demand from the detergent and personal care sectors improved. Feedstock costs increased due to firm palm oil imports from Southeast Asia. Export volumes to neighboring Asian markets stayed high, reflecting solid regional consumption. Production rates at oleochemical facilities remained stable, though rising logistics and power costs contributed to mild price escalation.
Germany
Prices stood at USD 2,677/MT in Q3 2025. Germany’s fatty alcohol market experienced firm pricing, supported by strong consumption in the detergent, lubricant, and personal care segments. Imports of lauric oils from Asia were limited, tightening raw material supply. High energy and compliance costs continued to drive up production expenses, while industrial consumption from cleaning and cosmetic sectors maintained a solid baseline for demand.
Singapore
Fatty alcohol prices reached USD 2,656/MT, supported by strong regional consumption and tight upstream feedstock supply. Higher palm kernel oil and coconut oil values, coupled with refinery maintenance in Malaysia and Indonesia, curtailed output. Freight and storage expenses increased, and port congestion extended delivery times. Despite these cost pressures, sustained buying from surfactant and personal care manufacturers kept prices firm through Q3 2025.
Saudi Arabia
Prices averaged USD 2,959/MT, showing a modest increase. Demand from the detergent and home-care sectors remained robust, while higher natural oil feedstock and energy costs raised manufacturing expenses. Export activity toward Europe and Africa absorbed a portion of domestic supply, tightening availability. Local oleochemical plants operated at stable rates, supporting balanced trade and consumption conditions in September 2025.
| Country/Region | Q3 2025 (USD/MT) | Q2 2025 (USD/MT) | Q3 vs Q2 Trends |
|---|---|---|---|
| USA | 2,231 | 2,157 | Prices increased on higher feedstock costs and firm domestic consumption |
| China | 2,180 | 2,133 | Slight rise driven by stronger detergent and surfactant demand |
| Germany | 2,677 | 2,644 | Small increase supported by high energy and lauric oil costs |
| Singapore | 2,656 | 2,598 | Firm demand and feedstock constraints maintained bullish tone |
| Saudi Arabia | 2,959 | 2,900 | Marginal rise amid export-driven tightness and stable production rates |
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The global fatty alcohol market was valued at USD 6.97 Billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 10.61 Billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 4.78% during 2026–2034. Market growth continues to be underpinned by rising demand from personal care, detergent, and industrial surfactant sectors. Sustainable sourcing and bio-based feedstock adoption remain central to long-term market strategies as consumers and regulators emphasize traceability and environmental responsibility.
The integration of oleochemical production into value-added downstream industries—such as cosmetics, lubricants, and specialty coatings—continues to strengthen the industry’s structure. Additionally, shifts toward green chemistry and circular manufacturing have driven new investments in plant capacity and renewable feedstock conversion technologies. Ongoing technological improvements in hydrogenation and fractionation processes have enabled more efficient conversion of natural oils, reducing waste and enhancing output consistency.
During Q3 2025, the global fatty alcohol market was shaped by firm upstream costs, stable consumption, and evolving sustainability requirements. Southeast Asian producers faced higher processing expenses due to palm and coconut oil price inflation, influencing international quotations. Meanwhile, Western markets prioritized supply security through diversified sourcing and localized refining.
The detergent and personal care sectors remained the largest consumers of fatty alcohol, accounting for more than half of global demand. Manufacturers increasingly focused on developing bio-based variants derived from renewable oils to meet growing environmental standards. Industrial applications, including lubricants, coatings, and surfactants—also expanded as energy and construction activity increased. Despite moderate price inflation, the market outlook for 2026 points to stable growth, supported by strong consumer spending on hygiene and sustainability-driven product innovation.
IMARC’s report incorporates forecasting models that project near-term price movements based on evolving trade policies, raw material supply, and technological trends. These tools enable businesses to mitigate risk, enhance sourcing strategies, and support long-term planning.
Key Features of the Report: