ChemAnalyst is an online platform offering a comprehensive range of market analysis and pricing services, as well as up-to-date news and deals from the chemical and petrochemical industry, globally.

September 3rd, 2025

Ethylene Carbonate Price Index, Trend, Chart, News, Demand & Forecast

The global ethylene carbonate (EC) market has been witnessing significant changes in recent years as the demand across various end-use industries continues to rise. Ethylene carbonate is a versatile chemical compound widely used as a solvent, electrolyte component in lithium-ion batteries, and as an intermediate in the production of lubricants, plastics, and coatings. The prices of ethylene carbonate are highly influenced by supply-demand dynamics, raw material availability, and production costs associated with ethylene oxide and carbon dioxide, which are the primary feedstocks. With the rapid growth of the electric vehicle sector, the demand for lithium-ion batteries has skyrocketed, directly impacting ethylene carbonate consumption and creating upward pressure on market prices. Manufacturers are scaling up production capacities to meet the growing demand, but fluctuations in raw material costs and energy prices continue to create volatility in the EC pricing landscape.

In Asia-Pacific, which remains the largest consumer and producer of ethylene carbonate, the prices are shaped by strong industrial demand, particularly from China, Japan, and South Korea. China, being the hub for lithium-ion battery manufacturing, accounts for a substantial portion of global ethylene carbonate consumption. As government policies push for cleaner energy alternatives and electric mobility, the demand for EC as a solvent and electrolyte stabilizer is expected to strengthen, which in turn keeps the regional prices firm. However, any disruption in the supply chain, whether due to logistics challenges, raw material shortages, or regulatory restrictions, can trigger price escalations. Additionally, the competitive presence of domestic manufacturers and international suppliers keeps the market highly dynamic, where buyers are sensitive to even slight shifts in price trends.

In North America, ethylene carbonate prices are heavily dependent on the petrochemical sector’s performance and the expansion of the electric vehicle industry. With the U.S. making large-scale investments in renewable energy and battery production facilities, demand growth for ethylene carbonate has been steady. Price fluctuations often occur due to feedstock price volatility and plant turnarounds that temporarily restrict supply. Import dependence also plays a role in shaping market prices, especially when domestic output is unable to fully cater to growing requirements. The increasing adoption of advanced lubricants in automotive and industrial machinery is also driving consistent demand, thus providing support to the regional EC price structure.

Get Real time Prices for Ethylene Acrylic Acid Copolymer: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/ethylene-carbonate-ec-1193

The European ethylene carbonate market faces similar trends where demand is primarily supported by the electric vehicle push and the high adoption of sustainable technologies. European governments’ stringent carbon emission norms have accelerated the need for energy-efficient batteries and high-performance lubricants, directly benefiting EC consumption. Price variations in Europe are influenced not just by local production but also by imports from Asia, making the region susceptible to global supply chain disruptions. The Russia-Ukraine conflict and energy crisis have also added uncertainties, pushing raw material and production costs higher, which reflects in the regional EC prices. The chemical’s application in coatings and adhesives industries further enhances its market stability, as these downstream industries have maintained steady growth even during periods of broader economic slowdown.

Globally, the ethylene carbonate pricing outlook is optimistic, supported by the long-term demand trajectory from the EV sector, renewable energy storage, and industrial applications. However, volatility in feedstock availability and oil price fluctuations remain challenges for producers and buyers alike. As sustainability becomes a priority, manufacturers are focusing on process innovations to improve efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, which could eventually stabilize EC prices in the long term. The presence of key global players, along with emerging regional manufacturers, ensures a competitive market environment, which provides buyers with multiple sourcing options but also makes pricing trends more complex and sensitive to macroeconomic developments.

The future of the ethylene carbonate market is closely tied to the expansion of lithium-ion battery production. With governments around the world investing in EV infrastructure and renewable energy storage, the demand for EC is expected to rise steadily over the coming decade. Asia-Pacific is projected to maintain its dominance, while North America and Europe are likely to witness significant growth due to policy-driven adoption of green technologies. While short-term price fluctuations may occur due to raw material or supply chain challenges, the long-term trend suggests sustained demand growth, which could keep ethylene carbonate prices on a generally upward trajectory.

FAQs

Q1: What factors influence ethylene carbonate prices the most?
Ethylene carbonate prices are primarily influenced by raw material costs, particularly ethylene oxide, as well as demand from lithium-ion battery manufacturers, lubricants, and coatings industries. Supply chain disruptions and energy costs also play significant roles.

Q2: Why is ethylene carbonate important in the lithium-ion battery industry?
Ethylene carbonate is a crucial solvent used in electrolytes for lithium-ion batteries, offering high dielectric constant and chemical stability, which enhance battery performance and efficiency. This makes it indispensable in electric vehicle and energy storage applications.

Q3: Which regions are leading the consumption of ethylene carbonate?
Asia-Pacific, especially China, dominates global consumption due to its extensive lithium-ion battery production. North America and Europe are also expanding demand rapidly with investments in EV and renewable energy sectors.

Q4: How do supply chain disruptions impact EC prices?
Supply chain disruptions, whether due to logistics, raw material shortages, or geopolitical events, can restrict availability and push prices upward. Since EC demand is growing rapidly, even minor disruptions can cause significant price fluctuations.

Q5: What is the future outlook for ethylene carbonate prices?
The future outlook remains positive, driven by the rapid growth of electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and industrial applications. Although short-term volatility may occur, long-term demand growth is expected to support steady price increases.

ChemAnalyst

GmbH - S-01, 2.floor, Subbelrather Straße,

15a Cologne, 50823, Germany

Call: +49-221-6505-8833

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.chemanalyst.com/

This blog post is actually just a Google Doc! Create your own blog with Google Docs, in less than a minute.