Acetic Acid Market Prices Continue to Rise

December 24th News

According to the commodity market analysis system, as of December 24th, the average price of acetic acid in the Chinese market was 2,720 CNY/ton, an increase of 60 CNY/ton compared to the price of 2,660 CNY/ton on December 17th, with a price increase of 2.26%.

Recently (12.17-12.24), the acetic acid market in China has risen again. On the supply side, the recovery of maintenance facilities has been slow, with low operating rates for acetic acid production, and factory inventories are low, keeping acetic acid prices firm at high levels. On the demand side, there has been an increase in inquiries, and market sentiment is positive. Inventories of some companies have decreased, and the price of acetic acid continues to rise.

Recently, the price of methanol, a raw material, has been fluctuating with a slightly stronger trend. As of the 24th, the average price in the Chinese market was 2160 CNY per ton, an increase of 1.60% compared to the price of 2126 CNY per ton on December 17th. The port market is experiencing tight supply, supporting a stronger rise in spot prices. Meanwhile, the Chinese methanol market, supported by winter transportation costs, shows firm quotations from enterprises. Downstream buyers are following up according to their needs, and the methanol market is fluctuating.

The downstream acetic anhydride market in China showed a strong upward trend. From December 17 to 24, the average ex-factory price of acetic anhydride decreased from 4,170 CNY/ton to 4,162.50 CNY/ton, a price decrease of 0.18%. The upstream acetic acid market was robust, leading to continuously increasing costs for acetic anhydride. Downstream demand did not show any significant fluctuations, and the shipment volume from enterprises was relatively low. The market sentiment was stagnant, and within this period, the price of acetic anhydride slightly decreased.

Looking ahead, acetic acid analysts believe that with relatively frequent maintenance at Chinese acetic acid plants, market supply pressure remains moderate. Downstream demand is stable, and companies are experiencing good sales performance. The fundamental outlook remains positive, and we expect the acetic acid market to continue its relatively strong trend in the coming period. Going forward, attention should be paid to market supply conditions.