Strong Momentum in Asia’s Expanding Market

The refined glycerine market experienced an exceptional surge in the third quarter of 2025, with both demand and prices accelerating across Asia. As one of the most versatile raw materials—used in pharmaceuticals, food, personal care, and bio-based chemicals—refined glycerine is becoming a central focus for palm oil and oleochemical traders navigating a rapidly shifting market.

In the Asia Pacific region, refined glycerine demand is on a steep upward path, registering a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.2% between 2025 and 2033. The market value rose from USD 2.12 billion in 2024 to USD 2.17 billion in 2025, reflecting rising demand for 99%+ purity glycerine in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food additives. Leading markets—China, India, Japan, and Southeast Asia—now account for more than half of global refined glycerine consumption. This momentum is supported by regulatory approvals, particularly in Asia, for applications in nutraceuticals and Ayurvedic medicine, boosting pharmaceutical sector demand at an estimated CAGR of 11.3%.

“For companies in the palm-based oleochemical trade, the ability to bridge supply with demand defines competitive advantage.” Tradeasia International, with its extensive sourcing network, continues to support industries in meeting refined glycerine needs despite growing volatility.

Rising Prices Amid Tight Supply

Price dynamics in 2025 underline just how tight the market has become. By Q2, refined USP 99.5% glycerine prices increased 1.86% month-on-month, with year-on-year growth surpassing 10%. The rally only intensified into Q3 as supply constraints worsened. Palm oil feedstock costs rose sharply, partly driven by El Niño-induced droughts in Indonesia, while government mandates on palm-based biodiesel expansion reduced crude glycerol availability for refining. In Malaysia and Indonesia, spot shortages triggered steep price surges, creating ripple effects across global markets.

Industrial applications—including paints, adhesives, and chemical intermediates—remain significant, accounting for around 35% of total glycerine demand in Asia. However, rising imports by China are exerting additional pressure, as domestic supply falls short of growing consumption. Limited refining infrastructure in some markets and recurring logistical bottlenecks have amplified competition and volatility.

As the market heads into Q4 2025, these supply-demand imbalances are expected to persist, keeping prices elevated. For stakeholders across the palm oil and oleochemical value chain, this environment underscores the need for strategic sourcing, risk management, and reliable trading partners. With refined glycerine’s expanding role across industries, businesses that adapt to these dynamics will be best positioned to capture growth while managing volatility.

 

Sources:

  1. Oleochemicals Asia - Asia Pacific Glycerol Market Size, Share & Analysis 2025 - https://www.oleochemicalsasia.com/

  2. ChemAnalyst - Glycerine Prices Surge Across Southeast Asia Amid Feedstock Inflation and Export Challenges (August 2025) - https://www.chemanalyst.com/NewsAndDeals/NewsDetails/glycerine-prices-surge-across-southeast-asia-amid-feedstock-inflation-and-export-38751

  3. Expert Market Research on LinkedIn - Glycerine Price Trends & Forecast 2025–2026 Insights (May 2025) - https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/glycerine-price-forecast-report-20252030-market-trends-chander-deep-eqbbc