Recent Weak Performance of the Acetic Acid Market in China

October 22nd, according to reports

According to the commodity market analysis system, as of October 22, the average price of acetic acid in the Chinese market was 2600 CNY/ton, a decrease of 40 CNY/ton compared to the price of 2640 CNY/ton on October 11, with a price decrease of 1.52%. In mid-October, the acetic acid market in China showed a weak downward trend. Although some plants were under maintenance, leading to a decrease in the capacity utilization rate, downstream demand was mediocre, and purchases were mainly driven by essential needs. The market trading atmosphere was poor, with inventory accumulation in enterprises. Market participants had a bearish outlook, and to maintain the pace of sales, acetic acid prices continued to be reduced.

This week, the methanol raw material market in China has been fluctuating. As of the 22nd, the average price in the Chinese market was 2,236 CNY/ton, a decrease of 0.27% compared to the price of 2,242 CNY/ton on October 11th. The average price of the port methanol market strengthened, with active inventory clearance being the main focus. The downstream purchasing atmosphere is not high, coupled with inventory accumulation by domestic enterprises, which continues to suppress the spot market. Overall, the methanol market performance is relatively weak.

The downstream acetic anhydride market in China is operating weakly. From October 11 to 22, the average ex-factory price of acetic anhydride fell from 4,212.50 CNY/ton to 4,177.50 CNY/ton, a price decrease of 0.83%. The upstream acetic acid market is showing a weak downward trend, and the sentiment in the acetic anhydride market is bearish. Downstream buyers are not very active, mainly following demand, and the overall trading atmosphere in the market is relatively weak. During this period, the price of acetic anhydride has been adjusted downward.

Looking ahead, acetic acid analysts note that China’s acetic acid capacity utilization rate remains high, while downstream demand growth is limited. As a result, corporate inventories are rising, and market sentiment remains subdued due to weak on-site trading activity and sluggish internal demand. Consequently, the acetic acid market is expected to consolidate at lower levels in the near term. Market participants will need to closely monitor supply dynamics in the coming period.