Asia
In Asia, Ethylene Carbonate prices showed a weak to declining trend during the second half of 2025. The market was mainly pressured by abundant availability of feedstock ethylene oxide, especially in China, where multiple new EO units came online during the year. High operating rates and fresh capacities increased overall supply, while downstream demand from battery electrolytes and solvents remained steady but not strong enough to absorb the excess material. The slowdown in construction and surfactant based sectors indirectly reduced EO consumption, which further softened cost support for Ethylene Carbonate.
Europe
In Europe, Ethylene Carbonate prices stayed relatively stable compared to Asia but still were slightly bearish in H2’25. Supply remained balanced as producers maintained controlled operating rates, and no major production disruptions were reported. Feedstock ethylene oxide costs softened due to lower upstream energy prices, which limited any upward price movement. Demand from battery materials and specialty chemical applications stayed consistent, but broader industrial activity remained slow. This balance between stable demand and easing cost pressure kept price movements narrow, with sellers facing resistance when attempting to increase offers.
North America
In North America, Ethylene Carbonate prices weakened during H2’25. Lower ethylene oxide production costs, driven by declining ethylene and energy prices, reduced cost pressure for producers. Supply chains remained well managed, and availability stayed sufficient across the region. Demand from energy storage, cleaning chemicals, and specialty solvents was steady but showed no strong growth momentum. As a result, the prices were under mild downward pressure.
Analyst Insight
According to Procurement Resource, Ethylene Carbonate prices are expected to remain stable to slightly weak, with movements largely dependent on ethylene oxide supply and recovery in downstream demand.
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Asia
In the first half of 2025, the ethylene carbonate (EC) market in Asia experienced fluctuating prices driven by weak demand and unstable market fundamentals. During Q1, prices dipped due to reduced buying interest from battery manufacturers and a slow recovery in downstream sectors following the Chinese New Year.
Though February saw a brief rise due to upstream cost pressure and logistical challenges, the trend remained bearish by March. Moving into Q2, prices remained under pressure as demand from the lithium-ion battery segment continued to lag. High inventory levels and a cautious production approach kept supply balanced, but the absence of strong restocking momentum held prices down. Despite some growth in new energy vehicle (NEV) sales, demand was not strong enough to support a meaningful price recovery.
Europe
The European EC market remained soft throughout H1’25. In Q1, muted demand from the battery and electronics sectors, combined with changing preferences toward lithium-iron-phosphate (LFP) chemistries, kept buying activity low. Imports were modest and production levels were reduced in response to weak downstream offtake. In Q2, the market saw no major improvement. EV momentum was limited, and battery production remained sluggish amid economic uncertainty and regulatory concerns. Even with policy support in some regions, confidence in the short-term outlook remained low, and EC prices stayed flat or slightly down depending on local conditions.
North America
In North America, EC prices followed a downward trajectory through H1’25. Q1 was marked by cautious buying due to global oversupply and conservative procurement from battery and electrolyte manufacturers. Though EV sales picked up in February, overall sentiment was cautious due to potential shifts in U.S. federal policies. In Q2, the trend continued as global supply remained abundant and downstream demand lacked strength. Delays in international project completions and mild weather in lithium-producing areas helped maintain supply levels, but this did not significantly affect pricing. Buyers remained hesitant, and prices stayed soft through the quarter.
Ethylene carbonate is a colorless, odorless cyclic ester derived from ethylene glycol and carbonic acid. This compound finds its applications in the manufacturing of numerous industrial products such as lithium-ion batteries, capacitors, and other related electronic devices. Its high dielectric constant, low viscosity, and stability make it valuable for enhancing the performance and reliability of energy storage systems. Its antimicrobial properties make it valuable in preserving quality and safety in both food and feed industries.
C3H4O3
Lithium-ion batteries, Capacitors, Gas separation, Pharmaceuticals, Paints and coatings
1,3-Dioxolan-2-one, Ethylene glycol carbonate
BASF SE, Huntsman International LLC, Mitsubishi Chemical Corporation, TOAGOSEI Co Ltd, Asahi Kasei Corporation, New Japan Chemical Co Ltd, Tokyo Chemical Industry Co Ltd
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.
The reaction of carbon dioxide and ethylene oxide in presence of a preheated strong basic anion exchanger gives ethylene carbonate as the final product.
Udeesha Tomar
AVP - Strategy and Solutions
Leading procurement research solutions across chemicals, materials, and food & beverages, with expertise in price forecasting and market analytics.
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