Data sources: Customs, Chempricehub
In May 2026, China's methanol imports discharged from ocean-going vessels ultimately totaled 326,100 tons (counted upon berthing, excluding Russian overland shipments), a decrease of 236,600 tons from the previous month's imports (562,700 tons), down 42.05%.
Data sources: Customs, Chempricehub
In May 2026, China's methanol exports are estimated at around 220,700 tons, an increase of 47,700 tons (27.57%) compared with the previous month's customs export volume (173,000 tons).
Imports: The Persian Gulf remained in a closed state, causing May imports to continue hitting a new low for the year.
Exports: Geopolitical conflicts and strait blockades have severely impacted supply in the Asian region. Overseas prices rose even more sharply on supply concerns, continuing to support China's exports and re-exports at high levels.
Monthly ocean-vessel import volume of China's methanol by producing/exporting country (May)
| Trading Partner | Volume (tons) | Share of Imports |
|---|---|---|
| Middle East | 101,900 | 31.25% |
| Chile | 80,630 | 24.72% |
| Russia | 56,600 | 17.36% |
| Oman | 50,000 | 15.33% |
| Malaysia | 20,000 | 6.13% |
| Trinidad | 10,000 | 3.07% |
| New Zealand | 7,000 | 2.15% |
| Total | 326,130 | 100.00% |
Data sources: Chempricehub
The estimated volume of methanol imported by vessel and discharged in May was 326,100 tons. During the month, 101,900 tons were discharged from the main Middle East region, while non-Iranian cargoes accounted for 224,200 tons. In May, the main Middle East region shipped only 168,000 tons, though some other cargoes were loaded and then anchored. Total imports in June are expected to be around 415,000 tons, with the main Middle East supply estimated at 168,000 tons and non-Iranian supply estimated at approximately 247,000 tons. (Due to multiple port-related factors, shipment arrival times may change; therefore, the actual port arrivals are subject to the final discharge at the terminal.)
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