News Release: July 29, 2025
1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price trend in past five years and factors impacting price movements (2019–2024)
From 2019 to 2024, the 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane market experienced a volatile yet steadily growing pricing environment driven by changing raw material availability, industrial demand, and geopolitical shifts. The compound, primarily used in the pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors, witnessed significant supply and demand shocks throughout this period.
In 2019, the average global 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price was around $2,300/MT. Prices remained relatively stable due to a consistent demand base and moderate production capacity. The upstream supply chain for 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane, primarily involving chlorinated and fluorinated hydrocarbons, did not face major disruptions during this time.
By early 2020, prices dropped slightly to around $2,150/MT, driven by reduced demand in the first half of the year due to the global onset of COVID-19. Industrial slowdowns, halted manufacturing activities, and disrupted logistics led to excess supply, pushing prices downward temporarily. However, by the end of 2020, a rebound in demand from pharmaceutical companies saw the price climb to approximately $2,400/MT as production activity normalized.
The year 2021 saw more dynamic changes. Prices surged to an average of $2,750/MT due to significant increases in raw material costs, particularly fluoroalkanes and chlorine-based intermediates. Additionally, stricter environmental regulations in China, a major supplier of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane, led to temporary shutdowns of production units, tightening global supply and pushing prices upward.
In 2022, global chemical markets became increasingly sensitive to energy price fluctuations. With crude oil prices climbing and impacting input costs, the price of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane rose further, averaging $3,000/MT. Furthermore, logistical challenges stemming from ongoing container shortages and port congestion added to overall cost pressures. Importing countries like India, Brazil, and several EU nations saw record-high landed costs.
2023 saw relative stabilization in 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price trend, with an average hovering around $2,850/MT. This moderation was due to strategic diversification of sourcing by global buyers, with some shifting from Chinese suppliers to Southeast Asian and European producers. Investments into production capacity in the US and South Korea also helped soften global price inflation. However, the Russia-Ukraine conflict and disruptions in Eastern European petrochemical infrastructure did keep market participants cautious.
Entering early 2024, the price climbed again to approximately $3,200/MT due to tightening supply from China, which implemented new safety and environmental protocols. Strong demand from the pharmaceutical sector, particularly in the development of advanced intermediates for API synthesis, maintained upward price pressure. Additionally, inflationary global trends and a weak freight network in Southeast Asia have had a noticeable impact on costs and supply reliability.
1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price trend and production News
1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price trend quarterly update in $/MT (2025)
As of 2025, industry experts are closely monitoring price shifts in the 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane market on a quarterly basis. The following are the estimated quarterly prices:
- Q1 2025: $3,350/MT
- Prices increased marginally due to seasonal uptick in production of agrochemicals and delayed shipments from Asian suppliers.
- Q2 2025: $3,280/MT
A slight correction observed as some new production capacities in India came online, easing pressure on global availability.
- Q3 2025: $3,420/MT
Demand from pharmaceutical applications rose, especially with new drug formulations requiring the compound as a key intermediate. This resulted in a minor price hike.
- Q4 2025 (Projected): $3,450/MT
Forecasted increase due to stockpiling by key buyers and anticipated logistics disruptions in the Asia-Pacific region during peak manufacturing season.
The 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price news indicates continued price fluctuations depending on production recovery rates, geopolitical events, and demand growth in healthcare and agriculture sectors.
Global 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane import-export business overview
The global trade of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane has evolved significantly over the past few years. This organofluorine compound, essential in synthesizing several active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and pesticide intermediates, has seen expanding global demand, prompting dynamic shifts in its import-export patterns.
Historically, China has dominated the global 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane production scene, accounting for more than 55% of total global capacity. This has made it the leading exporter to markets in North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia. From 2019 to 2023, China’s exports steadily rose from 12,000 MT annually to over 18,500 MT, driven by aggressive manufacturing and strong downstream demand. However, frequent government crackdowns on industrial emissions, along with safety-related production halts, have occasionally tightened supply, especially in the northern provinces.
India has emerged as both a major importer and, increasingly, a manufacturer of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane. The country’s rising pharmaceutical manufacturing base, particularly in the states of Gujarat and Telangana, has fueled domestic consumption. In 2022, India imported around 6,200 MT, mostly from China and South Korea. By 2024, initiatives under India’s PLI scheme (Production-Linked Incentive) enabled several local manufacturers to begin producing the compound domestically, leading to an import drop of 8% year-over-year.
The United States is a significant consumer, importing approximately 4,000 MT annually, primarily for use in advanced chemical synthesis and clinical drug trials. However, growing environmental scrutiny by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on fluorinated compounds has led to an increased push for domestic production. As a result, two US-based specialty chemical companies have announced new 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane production units set to commence operations by late 2025.
Europe, led by Germany, Belgium, and the Netherlands, continues to import substantial volumes of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane, especially for integration into pesticide manufacturing. The EU’s stringent REACH regulations have somewhat restricted the market, but ongoing investment in green chemistry technologies has allowed continued use under compliance frameworks. The region imported an estimated 5,700 MT in 2024, with moderate year-on-year growth expected in 2025.
South Korea and Japan serve as both importers and niche exporters of high-purity 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane. Japanese firms focus on supplying specialty grades for electronics and photolithography applications. Their total exports in 2024 were approximately 1,200 MT, mainly to the US and Germany. These exporters have found a growing market in supplying ultra-refined grades to global laboratories and R&D hubs.
Southeast Asian nations like Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia have begun to appear as secondary importers and transshipment centers. With several multinational chemical giants establishing regional hubs in these countries, imports rose steadily from 1,800 MT in 2020 to over 3,000 MT in 2024. These countries are increasingly using 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane for domestic pesticide production as well as contract manufacturing for global pharmaceutical brands.
The 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane sales volume globally was estimated to be around 36,000 MT in 2024, and this is projected to grow by 5% in 2025. Increasing applications across various sectors and the compound’s importance in fine chemical production continue to make it a strategic raw material globally.
In terms of global trade developments in 2025, the 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price news suggests that rising logistics costs, changes in energy policies, and stricter export regulations in China will continue to play a critical role. The US-China trade dynamics, in particular, may shift sourcing strategies. Meanwhile, countries such as India, Singapore, and the UAE are increasing their storage capacities to become chemical trading hubs.
Moreover, advancements in greener production methods have been reported in European and Japanese facilities. Some manufacturers are transitioning to using renewable fluorinated feedstock, which could, in the long term, make exports from those countries more appealing due to regulatory incentives in Western markets.
To conclude, the global 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane market in 2025 is witnessing considerable transformation. Ongoing shifts in production geographies, rising downstream applications, and cost dynamics continue to shape the import-export landscape. Analysts forecast stable yet cautious growth, with price-sensitive buyers diversifying sourcing strategies and governments taking more active roles in domestic production facilitation.
For a detailed outlook on 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane price trend and production news,
1-Chloro-4-Fluorobutane Production Trends by Geography
The production of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane has experienced significant geographical shifts over the past few years. As demand rises across key industries such as pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, and fine chemicals, countries are increasing their production capacities to reduce import dependency and cater to global demand. The focus on clean production practices, economic competitiveness, and supply chain security are also reshaping global production trends.
China continues to dominate global production of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane. As of 2025, the country accounts for more than half of the world’s output. The industrial hubs in provinces such as Jiangsu, Shandong, and Zhejiang are home to several large-scale chemical manufacturers who have invested in expanding capacity. Despite environmental regulations and safety standards imposed by the government, China remains competitive due to its established infrastructure and access to key raw materials like fluoroalkanes and chlorinated hydrocarbons. Production volumes have increased marginally in 2025 following plant upgrades and re-initiated capacity expansions halted in previous years due to emissions-related compliance issues.
India has emerged as a growing center for 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane production. With support from the government through the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, several domestic manufacturers have commissioned new facilities in Gujarat and Maharashtra. These plants are equipped with advanced process technologies focusing on safety, automation, and reduced environmental impact. India’s expanding pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors have provided consistent demand, prompting local manufacturers to invest in backward integration. In 2025, India’s production has seen a growth of over 12% compared to the previous year, marking it as one of the fastest-growing producers globally.
South Korea is a significant player in the production of high-purity grades of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane. The country has focused on producing the compound for use in electronics and specialty chemical applications. Leading South Korean firms have invested in cleanroom facilities and are targeting niche markets that demand consistent quality and ultra-low impurity levels. These producers often serve clients in Japan, Europe, and the United States. Although the production volume is lower compared to China or India, the value per metric ton is significantly higher due to its application in precision manufacturing.
Japan maintains a specialized production profile. While the total volume is modest, Japanese companies produce highly refined grades suitable for pharmaceutical R&D, electronics, and lab-scale synthesis. Japanese plants emphasize innovation, environmental responsibility, and quality assurance. The country is home to several research-driven companies that use 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane in new compound synthesis. Due to high costs of local manufacturing, Japan continues to import lower grades for industrial applications but retains its competitive edge in premium product segments.
The United States has been increasing domestic production capacity as a strategic response to supply chain risks associated with dependence on Asian markets. In 2025, two major chemical companies have commissioned plants in Texas and Louisiana aimed at reducing import requirements and serving the domestic pharmaceutical and agrochemical sectors. The move is supported by demand from major drug manufacturers and a focus on national supply security. While the US production is still developing, it is expected to contribute significantly by the end of the year.
Germany leads the production of 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane in Europe. It hosts several fine chemical companies that produce the compound under strict EU environmental guidelines. German firms supply high-value specialty grades to European pharmaceutical and crop protection industries. Production is relatively expensive due to regulatory costs and higher wages, but the region benefits from a stable and skilled workforce.
Other notable geographies include Taiwan, Singapore, and Brazil. Taiwan and Singapore focus on producing intermediates for electronics and chemical R&D, while Brazil is investing in basic chemical manufacturing to support its agricultural chemical industry. Their roles are growing gradually, particularly in regional supply chains.
Overall, global 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane production is becoming more diversified. Traditional centers like China remain dominant, but emerging producers in India and North America are rapidly gaining market share. The focus is shifting toward sustainable manufacturing, improved product quality, and regional self-reliance, which are driving long-term investments across the chemical value chain.
1-Chloro-4-Fluorobutane Market Segmentation
Key Market Segments:
- By Application
- Pharmaceuticals
- Agrochemicals
- Chemical Intermediates
- Research and Development
- Others
- By Purity Grade
- Industrial Grade
- Pharmaceutical Grade
- Research Grade
- By End-User Industry
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
- Chemical Manufacturing
- Academic and Institutional Laboratories
- By Distribution Channel
- Direct Sales
- Distributors
- Online Platforms
- By Geography
- Asia-Pacific
- North America
- Europe
- Latin America
- Middle East and Africa
Explanation of Leading Segments
Among the various application-based segments, pharmaceuticals continue to lead the global demand for 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane. The compound plays a crucial role as a synthetic intermediate in the development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Its molecular properties allow it to be used in halogen exchange reactions and the synthesis of complex molecular structures. In 2025, the pharmaceutical segment accounts for the largest share of the market by application, driven by the global expansion of drug manufacturing, especially for chronic diseases and new therapeutic research. Companies in the US, India, and Europe are among the top consumers.
The agrochemical sector is the second-largest consumer. 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane is used in the formulation of pesticides, herbicides, and crop protection agents. With rising global concerns around food security and increased crop yield demands, this segment has witnessed steady growth. Key consumption markets include Brazil, China, and India. Environmental regulations have prompted chemical manufacturers to focus on safer, targeted crop chemicals, where 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane finds expanding use.
In terms of purity grade, industrial grade leads the market due to its widespread use in chemical synthesis and bulk agrochemical production. Industrial users prioritize cost-efficiency and availability over ultra-high purity levels. On the other hand, pharmaceutical and research-grade variants are steadily gaining traction due to rising standards in medical and biotech R&D. These grades, though more expensive, are essential for drug development, biotechnology, and formulation of new molecules.
Among end-user industries, healthcare and life sciences dominate the market due to the increasing production of medications and clinical research compounds. The demand is bolstered by global investments in new drug development and the rising number of clinical trials, especially for cancer, neurology, and infectious diseases. Countries with robust pharmaceutical industries such as India, the US, Germany, and Japan are key players in this segment.
The agriculture industry represents the second-largest end-user industry. With climate challenges and pest resistance on the rise, agrochemical companies are exploring new compounds that are efficient and environmentally compliant. 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane is used in synthesizing such advanced molecules. This demand is being driven by large agricultural economies such as Brazil, Argentina, China, and India.
Research institutions and laboratories use 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane in limited but critical quantities. It serves as a reference compound or as part of reaction sequences in academic, government, and private research labs. Though this segment is smaller in volume, it contributes high-margin revenue due to the demand for specialty grades.
From a distribution perspective, direct sales channels dominate the market. Chemical manufacturers often engage in long-term contracts with large pharma and agrochemical firms to ensure consistent supply. However, the role of distributors has been expanding, especially in emerging markets where manufacturers rely on regional partners for marketing and logistics. Online platforms are slowly gaining traction, particularly for research-grade and smaller-quantity buyers, though regulatory concerns limit online chemical trade in many regions.
Geographically, the Asia-Pacific region leads the global market for 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane due to high production capacities, robust downstream industries, and competitive manufacturing costs. China and India are the primary drivers of this region’s dominance. North America and Europe follow, with focus on high-value applications in pharma and electronics. Latin America and the Middle East are emerging markets where demand is growing rapidly, mainly in agrochemical applications.
In summary, the 1-chloro-4-fluorobutane market is multifaceted with diverse applications, purity grades, and end-user industries. While pharmaceuticals lead in volume and value, growing demand from agriculture and R&D is shaping a more balanced market outlook for the future.