Chloroform (Trichloromethane, CHCl₃) — Prices Hold Firm at 2,800–3,000 RMB/Ton in Q2 2026 Amid Low-Volatility R23 Feedstock Demand

The chloroform (trichloromethane, CHCl₃) market has demonstrated notable stability in 2026, with prices maintaining a firm range while other chloromethane derivatives have exhibited greater volatility. AcCording to Mysteel data, the mainstream market price for chloroform in the Shandong region was 2,800–3,000 RMB per ton factory pickup, cash on delivery as of early 2026, reflecting a steady market environment. According to SunSirs, the benchmark price for chloroform stood at 1,900 RMB per ton in February 2026, unchanged from the beginning of the month, indicating a lack of significant price momentum.

The primary demand driver for chloroform is as a chemical intermediate in the production of refrigerant R23 (trifluoromethane, CHF₃). R23 is used in semiconductor plasma etching applications for silicon dioxide and silicon nitride layers, as well as in cleaning chemical vapor deposition chambers. As semiconductor fabrication capacity continues to expand, demand for high-purity R23 has grown, providing stable offtake for chloroform. Secondary applications include pharmaceutical intermediate synthesis, dye manufacturing, and agrochemical production.

According to annual market analysis, the 2025 chloroform market average price was approximately 2,000 RMB per ton, down 2.5 percent year-on-year, with the mainstream trading range of 1,667–2,000 RMB per ton. The 2026 forecast suggests prices will maintain a generally low consolidation pattern, with price center moving slightly down to 1,800–2,300 RMB per ton, offering limited room for sustained rallies. Producers have maintained disciplined output in response to stable but not surging demand.

Global chloromethane demand is projected to reach 1.66 billion USD in revenue by 2032 at a 2.6 percent CAGR, reflecting the mature market characteristics of these industrial solvents and intermediates.

For buyers seeking "chloroform price per ton," "trichloromethane for R23 feedstock," or "industrial grade CHCl₃ supplier," near-term forecasts point to steady demand from refrigerant manufacturing and pharmaceutical sectors. R23's semiconductor etching applications add a growth component, though the switch to lower-GWP alternatives is a long-term consideration.

Sources: China Industry Competitiveness Information Network, 2026–2032 Chloromethane Market Outlook; SunSirs, February 2026; Mysteel, March 2026