n-Hexane prices in Saudi Arabia dropped ~10% YoY in Q4 2024; prices may fall further in early 2025, with a mild recovery expected in H2.

The n-hexane prices for Q4 2023 reached 1198 USD/MT in the USA. The market showed diverse trends, starting with a price increase due to strong cost support. However, by December, prices fell as mild weather reduced gas demand and production slowed. Additionally, lower global food prices, especially in the vegetable oil sector, weakened n-hexane demand, creating a complex market environment.

N-Hexane Prices December 2023

Explore IMARC’s newly published report, titled “N-Hexane Pricing Report 2024: Price Trend, Chart, Market Analysis, News, Demand, Historical and Forecast Data,” offers an in-depth analysis of n-hexane pricing, covering an analysis of global and regional market trends and the critical factors driving these price movements.

Why did the n-Hexane Price Change in July 2025? The N-Hexane Price Index in the U.S. trended slightly higher through April and May 2025, supported by steady oil extraction demand, before easing into June as supply lengthened and downstream coatings activity remained subdued.

Get the latest insights on price movement and trend analysis of Hexane in different regions across the world (Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and the Middle East Africa).

The Hexane Market report segments the industry into Type (n-Hexane, Isohexane, Neohexane), Grade (Polymer Grade, Food Grade, Other Grades), Application (Industrial Solvents, Edible Oil Extractant, Cleansing and Degreasing, Other Applications (Thermometric Fluid, Agricultural Chemicals, Additive Fuel, and Adhesives and Sealants)), and Geography (Asia-Pacific, North America, Europe, South America, Middle East and Africa).

The global n-hexane market attained a volume of 1.93 Million Tons in 2024. The industry is further projected to grow in the forecast period of 2025-2034 at a CAGR of 3.80% to reach 2.80 Million Tons by 2034.

The global n-Hexane demand stood at approximately 1066 thousand tonnes in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.70% during the forecast period until 2035.

N-Hexane Market valued at USD 2.7 Bn in 2025, is anticipated to reaching USD 3.56 Bn by 2032, with a steady annual growth rate of 4.0%.

The global n-Hexane market size was valued at USD 2.24 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 3.49 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.57% during the forecast period. The market growth is attributed to the increasing demand for n-Hexane as an industrial solvent in various end-use industries such as paints, coatings, and adhesives. Asia Pacific is expected to dominate the n-Hexane market throughout the forecast period due to the presence of a large manufacturing base and high demand for n-Hexane in the region. The growth of the automotive and construction industries in developing countries such as China and India is fueling the demand for n-Hexane. Additionally, the growing population and rising disposable income are driving the demand for consumer products, which, in turn, is increasing the demand for n-Hexane in the manufacturing of packaging materials. Recent developments include: March 2022: Phillips 66 announced its merger with Phillips 66 Partners. The merger resulted in Phillips 66 acquiring all limited partnership interests in PSXP not already owned by Phillips 66 and its affiliates.. Key drivers for this market are: Growing Demand from Petrochemical Industries, Increasing Demand for Edible Oil Extraction; Other Drivers. Potential restraints include: Growing Demand from Petrochemical Industries, Increasing Demand for Edible Oil Extraction; Other Drivers. Notable trends are: Edible Oil Extraction to Dominate the Market.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global hexane market size will be USD 2.6 billion in 2024 and will expand at a CAGR of 4.5% from 2024 to 2031. Market Dynamics of Hexane Market

Key Drivers for Hexane Market

Constant demand in the market for edible oils - When it comes to extracting oil, hexane is more effective than other solvents like petroleum ether and ethyl acetate. As a result, its primary application is in extraction of edible oils from vegetables and seeds, such as palm, soybean, mustard, cottonseed, rape, flax, peanut, and maize germ. It assists in removing unwanted odors from oil and aids in extracting the most amount of oil feasible. After the oil is extracted, the solvent can be recycled and utilized again. Because it is safe and effective, food-grade hexane is specifically used in oil extraction processes. The solvent has a low boiling point and stays liquid at low temperatures. Fruits and seeds can have their oil extracted with hexane without compromising their nutritious content.
An increase in the paint and coatings industry's need for solvents.

Key Restraints for Hexane Market

Focus among end users is shifting to green solvents.
Variations in the price of crude oil worldwide.

Introduction of the Hexane Market

Hexane, sometimes referred to as n-hexane or hexyl hydride, is an aliphatic hydrocarbon that is obtained by fractionally distilling natural gas or crude oil. Like cyclohexane, it is composed of a combination of hydrocarbons having six carbon atoms. Among its many important uses are as a chemical intermediary, cleaning agent, and essential oil thinner. Hexane is also employed as a solvent in the rubber polymerization process, which creates synthetic rubber. It is employed in the production of paint, coating, offset oil, and binder.

Food Additive N Hexane Market Outlook

The global market size of Food Additive N Hexane was valued at approximately $900 million in 2023, and it is projected to reach around $1.5 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% during the forecast period. The strong growth factors driving this market include increased demand for processed and packaged foods, advancements in food processing technologies, and the expanding food and beverage industry globally.

One of the significant growth drivers for the Food Additive N Hexane market is the rising demand for processed and packaged foods. With urbanization and changing lifestyles, consumers are increasingly leaning towards convenience foods that require less preparation time. N Hexane, being a critical solvent and extraction agent, plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and shelf-life of these food products. Additionally, the growing health consciousness among consumers has led to an increase in demand for food additives that can enhance the nutritional value and safety of food products. This trend is expected to contribute substantially to the market's growth.

Technological advancements in food processing are another crucial factor bolstering the Food Additive N Hexane market. Innovations in extraction and solvent technologies have made it easier to produce high-purity N Hexane, which is essential for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of food additives. These technological advancements have also resulted in cost-effective production methods, thereby reducing the overall cost of Food Additive N Hexane. This has made it more accessible for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), further driving market growth. Moreover, continuous research and development (R&D) activities are aimed at developing more sustainable and efficient methods of N Hexane production, which is expected to open new avenues for market expansion.

The expanding food and beverage industry, particularly in emerging economies, is another significant growth driver for the Food Additive N Hexane market. Countries in Asia Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa are witnessing rapid industrialization and urbanization, leading to an increased demand for processed and convenience foods. This has resulted in a surge in the use of Food Additive N Hexane in these regions. Additionally, favorable government policies and regulations supporting the food processing industry are expected to further stimulate market growth. For instance, governments in these regions are offering subsidies and incentives to promote the establishment of food processing units, which in turn is expected to drive the demand for Food Additive N Hexane.

Product Type Analysis

The Food Additive N Hexane market is segmented by product type into Solvent, Extraction Agent, and Additive. Each of these product types plays a unique role in various applications within the food and beverage industry. The solvent segment holds a significant share of the market, primarily due to its widespread use in the extraction of oils from seeds and vegetables. The high efficiency and cost-effectiveness of N Hexane as a solvent make it a preferred choice in the food processing industry. Moreover, the solvent segment is expected to witness substantial growth due to the increasing demand for plant-based oils and proteins, which require efficient extraction methods.

The Extraction Agent segment is another critical component of the Food Additive N Hexane market. N Hexane is extensively used as an extraction agent in the food industry due to its non-polar nature, which allows it to dissolve fats and oils effectively. This property makes it ideal for extracting essential oils, flavors, and fragrances, which are crucial ingredients in various food and beverage products. The rising demand for natural flavors and fragrances, driven by consumer preference for clean-label products, is expected to propel the growth of this segment. Additionally, ongoing research to enhance the extraction efficiency of N Hexane is likely to provide lucrative opportunities for market players.

The Additive segment, although smaller compared to solvents and extraction agents, plays a vital role in enhancing the quality and safety of food products. N Hexane is used as an additive to improve the texture, flavor, and shelf-life of various food products. The growing trend towards functional foods that offer additional health benefits is expected to drive the demand for N Hexane as an additive. Furthermore, regulatory approvals and certifications for the use of N Hexane in food applications

The global pharmaceutical grade n-hexane market was valued at $1.5 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach $2.2 billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. The increasing demand for pharmaceutical intermediates is expected to drive the growth of the market. N-hexane is a commonly used solvent in the pharmaceutical industry for the extraction and purification of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). The growth of the pharmaceutical industry is, therefore, expected to positively impact the demand for n-hexane. The market is segmented based on application (pharmaceutical intermediates, other), type (60% purity, 80% purity), and region (North America, South America, Europe, Middle East & Africa, Asia Pacific). The pharmaceutical intermediates segment accounted for the largest share of the market in 2025 and is expected to continue to dominate the market during the forecast period. The growth of this segment can be attributed to the increasing demand for APIs. The 60% purity segment is expected to hold a larger share of the market during the forecast period, owing to its lower cost compared to the 80% purity segment. North America and Europe collectively held the largest share of the market in 2025. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to grow at a higher rate during the forecast period due to the increasing pharmaceutical production in the region. Report Description This report provides an in-depth analysis of the Pharmaceutical Grade n-Hexane market, with a focus on concentration, trends, key regions, segments, and industry drivers. The report covers key market insights, regulations, product substitutes, and mergers and acquisitions. The data presented in this report is based on extensive research and analysis conducted by industry experts.

Global N Hexane market size 2025 was XX Million. N Hexane Industry compound annual growth rate (CAGR) will be XX% from 2025 till 2033.

India n-Hexane market stood at approximately 180 thousand tonnes in FY2023 is expected to further grow at a CAGR of 4% during the forecast period until FY2033.

The global n-hexane market, valued at $1159 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.2% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven by the increasing demand for n-hexane in various applications, primarily in the extraction of plant oils, the production of polyolefins, and the manufacturing of rubber products. The rising popularity of plant-based oils in food and cosmetics is significantly boosting the demand for n-hexane in the extraction process. Furthermore, the expanding polyolefin industry, fueled by the growth in packaging and plastic applications, is a key factor driving n-hexane consumption. The market is segmented by purity level (60%, 80%, >80%) and application, reflecting the diverse needs of various industries. While the market faces restraints such as fluctuating crude oil prices and environmental concerns regarding solvent usage, the ongoing innovation in extraction techniques and the development of more sustainable alternatives are mitigating these challenges. Major players like Phillips 66, ExxonMobil, and Shell are contributing significantly to the market's growth through their global production and distribution networks. The geographic distribution of the n-hexane market reflects the global distribution of its major applications. North America and Asia Pacific are expected to be leading regions, driven by strong industrial activities and a considerable demand for n-hexane in these regions. Europe and the Middle East & Africa are also expected to show modest growth, driven by local industrial developments and rising consumer demand for products that utilize n-hexane in their manufacturing. However, variations in regional regulations and economic factors can influence the rate of market expansion in different geographical segments. The competitive landscape is characterized by both large multinational corporations and regional players, resulting in a balanced distribution of market share. Future growth will likely be determined by factors including the development of renewable n-hexane sources, the implementation of stricter environmental regulations, and the overall health of global industrial production.

Learn more about Market Research Intellect's Food Additive N-hexane Market Report, valued at USD 2.5 billion in 2024, and set to grow to USD 3.8 billion by 2033 with a CAGR of 5.4% (2026-2033).

N-Hexane Market Outlook

The global N-Hexane market size was valued at approximately USD 2.57 billion in 2023, and it is projected to reach USD 3.75 billion by 2032, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 4.2% during the forecast period. The market's growth is primarily driven by the increasing demand for N-Hexane in various industrial applications such as adhesives and sealants, pharmaceuticals, and edible oil extraction. Additionally, the expansion of the food and beverage industry and the rising demand for industrial cleaning agents further contribute to the market's positive growth trajectory.

One of the most significant growth factors for the N-Hexane market is its extensive use in the extraction of edible oils. The rising global population and increasing health consciousness among consumers have led to a surge in the consumption of edible oils, which in turn drives the demand for N-Hexane as an extraction solvent. Moreover, technological advancements in extraction processes ensure higher yields and efficiency, further propelling the market growth. Additionally, the growing demand for bio-based solvents as an alternative to traditional ones, due to environmental concerns, opens up new avenues for N-Hexane applications.

The pharmaceutical industry also plays a crucial role in the expansion of the N-Hexane market. N-Hexane is widely used as a solvent in the formulation of various pharmaceutical products, including painkillers, antibiotics, and vitamins. The consistent growth of the pharmaceutical sector, driven by an aging population and increased healthcare spending, significantly boosts the demand for N-Hexane. Furthermore, stringent regulations and guidelines ensuring the safe and efficient use of chemicals in pharmaceuticals augment the market growth by ensuring quality and compliance.

Industrial cleaning is another critical application that influences the growth of the N-Hexane market. With increasing emphasis on maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in industrial setups, the demand for effective cleaning agents is on the rise. N-Hexane, known for its excellent solvency properties, is extensively utilized in cleaning and degreasing operations across various industrial sectors. The rapid industrialization in emerging economies and the growing awareness regarding workplace safety and hygiene are pivotal in driving the demand for N-Hexane in industrial cleaning applications.

Isomerized Hexadecane is gaining attention in the N-Hexane market due to its unique properties and applications. As a high-performance solvent, it is increasingly being used in specialized industrial applications where traditional solvents may not suffice. Its ability to provide superior solvency and stability makes it a preferred choice in the formulation of advanced materials and chemical processes. The growing demand for high-purity solvents in the pharmaceutical and chemical industries further propels the interest in Isomerized Hexadecane. Additionally, ongoing research and development efforts are focused on enhancing its efficiency and environmental compatibility, making it a promising component in sustainable solvent solutions.

Regionally, the Asia Pacific holds a dominant position in the N-Hexane market, accounting for a significant share of the global demand. The region's robust growth is attributed to the expanding industrial activities, particularly in countries like China and India. The increasing consumption of edible oils, coupled with the thriving pharmaceutical and chemical industries, significantly contributes to the market growth. Moreover, favorable government policies and investments in infrastructure development further bolster the demand for N-Hexane in the region.

Grade Analysis

The N-Hexane market is segmented by grade into polymerization, extraction, and others. Each grade serves distinct purposes across various industries, contributing to the overall market dynamics. The polymerization grade N-Hexane is primarily utilized in the manufacturing of polypropylene and polyethylene. The booming plastics industry, driven by the increasing demand for lightweight and durable materials in automotive and packaging sectors, significantly propels the demand for polymerization grade N-Hexane. Moreover, advancements in polymerization technologies ensure higher efficiency and productivity, further boosting the market growth in this segment.

Extraction grade N-Hexane, on the other hand, is extensi

The global food additive n-hexane market, valued at $535 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.6% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is driven primarily by the increasing demand for vegetable oil extraction, a key application of n-hexane in the food processing industry. The rising global population and the concurrent surge in demand for processed food products are major contributors to this market expansion. Furthermore, n-hexane's efficacy as a solvent in extracting oils from various sources, such as soybeans and palm, fuels its consistent adoption within the food industry. However, stringent regulations surrounding its use due to its potential health hazards pose a significant constraint. The market is segmented by purity level (60%, 80%, >80%) and application (vegetable oil extraction, food flavoring, food processing, and others), with vegetable oil extraction currently dominating the market share. Growth within the food flavoring and food processing segments offers significant future potential as demand for diverse food products with specific flavor profiles increases. Competition is fierce, with major players like Phillips 66, ExxonMobil, and Shell alongside significant regional players like Sinopec and Bharat Petroleum vying for market share. Future growth will hinge on innovation in safer extraction methods, compliance with evolving regulations, and the successful penetration of n-hexane into emerging markets. The geographic distribution of the n-hexane market reflects global food production patterns. Asia-Pacific, particularly China and India, are expected to experience substantial growth due to their burgeoning food processing industries. North America and Europe, while mature markets, will continue to contribute significantly due to sustained demand. However, regulatory scrutiny and the exploration of alternative solvents may present challenges to sustained growth in these regions. The market is also influenced by fluctuations in crude oil prices, as n-hexane is derived from petroleum refining. Therefore, price volatility in the crude oil market will indirectly impact the price and availability of n-hexane, potentially influencing market dynamics. Overall, the market outlook remains positive, with strategic investments in production capacity and technological advancements likely to shape the industry's future trajectory.

The pharmaceutical grade n-hexane market is experiencing robust growth, driven by its increasing use as a solvent in pharmaceutical manufacturing processes. While precise market size figures for 2019-2024 are unavailable, let's assume a conservative 2024 market size of $500 million based on industry reports showcasing similar solvent markets. With a stated CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of let's say, 6%, the market is projected to reach approximately $700 million by 2025. This growth is fueled by the expanding pharmaceutical industry, particularly in emerging economies, and the rising demand for high-purity solvents in drug production. Key trends include the increasing adoption of stringent quality control measures and the growing preference for sustainable and environmentally friendly solvents. However, price volatility of raw materials (crude oil) and stringent regulatory requirements pose significant challenges to market growth. Segmentation of the market may include application type (extraction, cleaning, etc.), purity levels, and end-user industry (generic drugs, biologics, etc.). Companies like Bharat Petroleum and Sinopec Jinling are key players, leveraging their established refining capabilities and distribution networks. This competitive landscape is further shaped by the ongoing development of alternative solvents, which presents both opportunities and threats to n-hexane's future dominance. The forecast period (2025-2033) suggests continued growth, albeit potentially at a slightly moderated CAGR of 5%, reaching approximately $1.2 billion by 2033. This moderation might reflect market saturation in certain regions and the continued development of alternative solvents. Nevertheless, the overall outlook remains positive, driven by the consistent need for high-quality solvents in pharmaceutical manufacturing. Regional variations will likely exist, with developed markets potentially showing slower growth compared to emerging economies experiencing rapid pharmaceutical industry expansion. Further research into specific regional data would allow for a more precise forecast and better understanding of regional market share.

The global hexane market size was around USD 2.33 Billion in 2024. The market is further expected to grow in the forecast period of 2025-2034 at a CAGR of 3.60% to reach nearly USD 3.32 Billion by 2034.