Acetic Acid Prices: Market Analysis, Trend, News, Graph and Demand

North America

Acetic Acid prices in the U.S. remained stable, averaging USD 700–730 per MT FOB Texas. This stability was supported by adequate supply levels but counterbalanced by weak downstream demand from sectors such as Vinyl Acetate Monomer (VAM), Purified Terephthalic Acid (PTA), and construction-related applications.

Although methanol feedstock costs were expected to rise, subdued downstream trading activity and limited purchasing power restrained any notable price increases. Production rates remained steady to slightly reduced, in line with muted demand. Broader manufacturing challenges—including declining manufacturing index values, weak export activity, and rising input costs—added further pressure to the market. The construction sector displayed mixed signals: while overall activity was sluggish, year-over-year growth in planning activity and signs of improved financing conditions contributed to cautious optimism for 2025.

Despite moderate upstream cost pressures, downstream market weakness kept prices rangebound. Looking ahead, improved sentiment in construction planning and expectations of more favorable financing may support a gradual demand recovery in 2025. However, potential risks such as shifting trade policies and ongoing geopolitical tensions could impact market stability.

Get Real time Prices for Acetic Acid: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/acetic-acid-9

Asia

Acetic Acid prices in China remained under pressure, averaging USD 350–400 per MT FOB Qingdao. The market was weighed down by high inventory levels, persistent oversupply, and weak downstream demand—particularly from acetate esters and vinyl acetate applications.

Prices experienced a modest rebound in mid-to-late November, driven by production cuts in Shandong and declining inventories. However, demand remained inconsistent, especially from the construction and real estate sectors, which continued to struggle. Manufacturing activity showed mild improvement, aided by government stimulus measures, though export sales and high freight costs limited broader gains. Despite plans for downstream capacity expansions in 2025, oversupply and structural market imbalances are expected to maintain volatility.

The contraction in the construction sector further dampened demand, as real estate investment continued to decline despite policy support. Elevated stock levels, poor consolidation in the acetate market, and cautious sentiment limited the potential for meaningful recovery. Looking forward, upcoming expansions in PTA and acetate ester capacities may offer marginal support, but persistent oversupply is likely to keep prices volatile.

Europe

Acetic Acid prices in Germany trended downward, driven by sluggish downstream demand and market oversupply. Prices stabilized toward the end of the quarter but remained on the lower end, pressured by subdued demand from applications such as paints and coatings.

Despite rising methanol prices reported in Methanex’s monthly updates, feedstock cost pressures had limited influence due to restrained acetic acid demand and cautious procurement behavior. The construction sector faced significant challenges, with declining new orders, workforce reductions, and logistical disruptions further suppressing demand for industrial chemicals. Residential and commercial construction activity contracted sharply amid high interest rates, material shortages, and ongoing geopolitical uncertainties.

Manufacturing across the Eurozone, including Germany, remained subdued, with falling factory output and new orders contributing to persistent oversupply and cautious market sentiment. Looking ahead, demand recovery is expected to be limited before 2025, with supply-side adjustments likely to shape the market in the near term.

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

Acetic Acid prices in Saudi Arabia increased, reaching USD 370–420 per MT FOB Al Jubail, supported by strong downstream demand and stable feedstock methanol costs, as indicated by Methanex’s monthly pricing data. Domestic production operated at consistent rates, and steady imports ensured ample market supply.

The construction sector remained a key demand driver, propelled by large-scale infrastructure investments under Vision 2030, including high-profile projects such as NEOM and the Riyadh Metro. This construction momentum supported downstream applications like paints and coatings, helping offset challenges in other end-use sectors. Manufacturing activity also demonstrated resilience, with rising new orders and foreign sales hitting their highest levels in over a year.

Input costs increased moderately due to higher material prices, but competitive market dynamics limited the extent of price hikes. Looking ahead, robust construction activity and a strong non-oil private sector are expected to underpin market stability. Nonetheless, potential supply-side constraints and geopolitical uncertainties could introduce short-term volatility.

Get Real time Prices for Acetic Acid: https://www.chemanalyst.com/Pricing-data/acetic-acid-9

 

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