PFAD Price Trend: A Simple and Clear Market Story from Q3 2025

Palm Fatty Acid Distillate, commonly known as PFAD, is a widely used by-product of palm oil refining. Even though it may not be a household name, PFAD plays an important role in everyday industries. It is used in biodiesel production, animal feed, soaps, oleochemicals, and other industrial applications. Because of this wide usage, changes in PFAD prices can affect many supply chains at once. Understanding the PFAD Price Trend helps buyers, traders, and producers make better decisions and manage costs more effectively.

In the third quarter of 2025, the global PFAD market showed a mix of stability and gradual recovery. Prices moved within a moderate range rather than showing extreme ups and downs. While some regions experienced price rebounds, others faced mild pressure due to local demand issues and logistics costs. Overall, the quarter highlighted PFAD’s growing importance as a renewable and sustainable feedstock.

General Market Overview in Q3 2025

During Q3 2025, the PFAD market remained relatively balanced. The PFAD Price Trend showed moderate fluctuations, generally staying within a range of about 3 to 6 percent. This kind of movement suggests a market that is adjusting rather than struggling.

One of the biggest influences on PFAD pricing during this period was the recovery of biodiesel production. After earlier slowdowns and maintenance shutdowns, biodiesel plants in several regions resumed operations. Since PFAD is a key raw material for biodiesel, this increase in production directly supported demand.

At the same time, oleochemical industries also showed improved activity. Products like soaps, detergents, and industrial chemicals rely on PFAD as a cost-effective input. As these industries picked up pace, PFAD demand improved steadily.

Regional Differences in the PFAD Price Trend

Although the global PFAD market showed a generally positive tone, regional differences were clearly visible. In regions such as Europe, Southeast Asia, China, and India, PFAD prices rebounded during the quarter. These markets benefited from stronger biodiesel demand and supportive renewable energy policies.

In contrast, South Korea experienced softer PFAD prices. Demand there remained weak, and high freight costs added extra pressure. This showed that while global trends matter, local conditions still play a big role in shaping the PFAD Price Trend.

Such regional variation is common in commodity markets. Differences in policy, energy demand, shipping costs, and industrial activity can all cause prices to move differently from one country to another.

Malaysia’s Role in the PFAD Market

Malaysia remained a central player in the PFAD market during Q3 2025. The PFAD Price Trend in Malaysia showed a clear rebound, with prices rising by around 3.79 percent over the quarter. Prices ranged roughly between USD 884 and USD 1,040 per metric ton.

September was especially strong. PFAD prices jumped sharply during that month due to the restart of biodiesel plants after maintenance shutdowns. Once these facilities resumed operations, PFAD demand increased quickly, pushing prices higher.

Malaysian producers also worked carefully to manage supply. They balanced production targets with sustainability requirements, which are becoming more important in global trade. This careful planning helped avoid oversupply while still meeting growing demand.

Indonesia and Other Export Markets

Indonesia, another major palm oil producer, followed a similar path. Producers focused on optimizing supply while responding to rising interest in renewable energy. Export markets in Europe and Southeast Asia became more active again, supported by government policies encouraging biofuel usage.

China and India also contributed to improved market sentiment. These countries increased imports to support their industrial and energy needs. As demand strengthened in these regions, the global PFAD Price Trend gained support.

However, exporters remained cautious. While demand improved, they were aware that sudden changes in policy or energy prices could affect future consumption.

Freight Costs and Their Impact

One challenge faced by the PFAD market during Q3 2025 was rising freight costs. Vessel shortages and higher fuel prices pushed shipping rates upward. This added extra cost to PFAD exports and affected competitiveness, especially for long-distance trade.

Higher freight costs placed upward pressure on offered prices, even in regions where demand was not particularly strong. For buyers, this meant paying more despite stable or moderate product prices. For sellers, it reduced flexibility in pricing.

Freight issues reminded market participants that logistics play a major role in shaping the PFAD Price Trend, sometimes as much as supply and demand.

Sustainability and Renewable Energy Policies

One of the strongest long-term drivers for PFAD is its role in renewable energy. Governments around the world continue to promote biofuels as part of their environmental goals. PFAD, being a by-product, fits well into sustainability frameworks.

During Q3 2025, renewed policy support for biodiesel in Europe and Southeast Asia boosted confidence in the PFAD market. These policies encouraged producers and buyers to plan for steady usage, supporting the PFAD Price Trend.

Sustainability standards also influenced how producers operated. Many focused on responsible sourcing and certification, which helped maintain access to key export markets.

Market Sentiment and Buyer Behavior

Market sentiment during the quarter was cautiously optimistic. Buyers were more confident than in earlier periods but still avoided aggressive purchasing. Many preferred short-term contracts and flexible arrangements to manage risk.

Currency fluctuations also remained a concern. Changes in exchange rates affected import costs and added uncertainty to pricing decisions. Geopolitical risks and ongoing trade discussions further encouraged careful planning.

Despite these uncertainties, PFAD’s essential role in biodiesel and oleochemicals provided a strong foundation. This helped stabilize the PFAD Price Trend even when challenges appeared.

Outlook for the Coming Months

Looking ahead, the PFAD market is expected to remain influenced by renewable energy demand and sustainability policies. If biodiesel production continues to grow, PFAD demand is likely to stay strong.

However, freight costs, currency movements, and geopolitical developments will continue to affect pricing. Producers and buyers will need to stay flexible and informed.

Overall, the PFAD Price Trend is expected to remain stable with moderate movements rather than sharp changes, provided no major disruptions occur.

Conclusion

The PFAD market in Q3 2025 showed a balanced and gradually improving picture. Prices moved within a moderate range, supported by renewed biodiesel production and stronger oleochemical demand. While some regions faced challenges such as high freight costs and weaker demand, others benefited from supportive policies and increased activity.

Malaysia and Indonesia played key roles in stabilizing supply while meeting sustainability goals. The PFAD Price Trend reflected PFAD’s growing importance as a renewable feedstock in a world increasingly focused on environmental responsibility.

As global energy policies continue to evolve, PFAD is likely to remain a valuable and closely watched commodity in the months ahead.