The global acetic acid price trends across the final quarter of 2024 indicate a clear downward trajectory, driven by oversupply conditions, muted demand from derivative industries, and cautious procurement behavior across China’s industrial-grade acetic acid market. Despite the persistent downturn observed through October to December, industry analysts anticipate that prices are likely to stabilize with a slight dip in 2025, providing some relief to market participants.In October 2024, the acetic acid industrial-grade price in China stood at USD 435/MT, sharply lower than the USD 550/MT recorded in October 2023. This represents a significant 21% year-on-year decline, one of the steepest drops of the year. The decrease was primarily driven by abundant product availability and subdued activity in downstream sectors like vinyl acetate monomer (VAM), purified terephthalic acid (PTA), and acetate esters. Manufacturers also maintained high operating rates, contributing to continuous stock accumulation and further pressuring prices.
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The downward trend persisted into November 2024, though with a comparatively smaller margin. Prices slipped to USD 395/MT, down from USD 435/MT in November 2023, marking a 9% YoY decrease. Weaker consumption from the adhesives, paints, and packaging industries—as well as softer export demand—continued to weigh on the market. Additionally, global economic uncertainties and cautious buying sentiment led several producers to adjust output marginally, though the adjustments were not substantial enough to tighten supply.
In December 2024, acetic acid prices settled at USD 402/MT, declining from USD 465/MT in December 2023, representing a 14% year-on-year drop. The market remained under pressure due to seasonal slowdowns, reduced logistical activities, and limited restocking by downstream buyers. Many end-use industries operated at reduced capacities toward year-end, delaying procurement decisions in anticipation of more favorable prices in early 2025.
Looking ahead, the acetic acid market is expected to experience relative price stability in 2025, according to Expert Market Research. While supply levels are likely to remain comfortable, improving demand from chemicals, plastics, and industrial solvents could help temper further price declines. However, any potential dips are expected to be marginal, with overall market dynamics pointing toward steady to slightly lower prices through the year.
With acetic acid serving as a core raw material for diverse industrial applications globally, understanding acetic acid price trends will remain essential for procurement teams, manufacturers, and distributors seeking to optimize purchasing strategies and navigate evolving market conditions.