China recorded a sharp increase in both imports and exports of propylene oxide in April 2026, according to data released by the General Administration of Customs. The figures indicate notable year-on-year growth across both inbound and outbound trade flows for the chemical product.
In April alone, China imported 9,800 tonnes of propylene oxide, representing a 400.0% increase compared to the same month in the previous year. Imports were primarily sourced from Thailand, Saudi Arabia, and Singapore. Thailand accounted for 3,000 tonnes or 30.6% of total imports, followed by Saudi Arabia with 2,500 tonnes (25.4%) and Singapore with 2,300 tonnes (23.5%). These figures highlight a relatively concentrated supply base, with most imports coming from key regional trading partners.
On the export side, China shipped 1,700 tonnes of propylene oxide in April, reflecting a significant year-on-year increase of 799.1%. Japan was the dominant destination, receiving 1,500 tonnes or 86.3% of total exports, indicating a highly concentrated export market for the product during the month.
Looking at cumulative data from January to April 2026, total imports reached 45,400 tonnes, up 10.6% year-on-year. Over this period, Thailand remained the largest supplier with 21,100 tonnes (46.5%), followed by Saudi Arabia with 15,200 tonnes (33.4%) and Singapore with 7,100 tonnes (15.6%). The sustained import growth suggests steady demand and ongoing reliance on established external supply sources.
Exports during the same four-month period totaled 1,800 tonnes, representing a 111.1% increase compared to the previous year. Japan continued to be the primary export destination, accounting for 1,500 tonnes or 82.8% of total shipments. This indicates that China’s export activity in propylene oxide remains narrowly focused on a small number of trading partners.
Overall, the data reflects shifting trade dynamics in the propylene oxide market, with strong import growth supported by diversified regional suppliers and a rapidly expanding export base, albeit concentrated in a limited number of destinations. Market participants continue to monitor chemical trade flows as part of broader developments in industrial supply chains and global petrochemical demand.
#ChemicalTrade #GlobalTrade #SupplyChainNews #Petrochemicals #AsiaTrade
