Price trend

According to the commodity market analysis system of SunSirs, the price of acetic acid fluctuated in February. As of February 28, the average market price was 2,796.67 RMB/ton, a decrease of 33.33 RMB/ton compared with the price of acetic acid at the beginning of the month of 2,830.00 RMB/ton, a monthly drop of 1.18%.

Market analysis

In February 2026, the acetic acid market experienced weak and volatile fluctuations. Before the Spring Festival, acetic acid prices initially fell before rising. Supply-side enterprises had high inventories, and market sentiment was weak. Before the holiday, some downstream companies stocked up, leading to a slight upward shift in acetic acid transaction prices. After the holiday, due to low inventory levels in Northwest China, acetic acid prices rose sharply, with other regions following suit. However, weak downstream demand, coupled with the influx of low-priced goods into the market, led some companies to lower their acetic acid prices. Throughout the month, the acetic acid market saw a supply-demand dynamic, resulting in relatively small overall price fluctuations.

The downstream acetic anhydride market remained weak. From February 1st to 28th, the average ex-factory price of acetic anhydride decreased from 4,590 RMB/ton to 4,540 RMB/ton, a drop of 1.09%. On the supply side, acetic anhydride production remained relatively stable, with little change in market supply. Downstream buyers purchased only as needed, providing limited support for acetic anhydride prices. Upstream acetic acid prices fluctuated, resulting in insufficient cost support. Acetic anhydride prices were significantly affected by upstream factors, leading to a weak downward trend in acetic anhydride prices during the month.

The methanol market experienced weak and volatile trading in February. As of February 28th, the average market price was 2,200 RMB/ton, a 2.87% decrease compared to the beginning of the month's price of 2,265 RMB/ton. Domestic methanol spot supply was ample, with high enterprise inventories and weak downstream demand, resulting in a generally weak price trend. Reduced imports and inventory at ports provided some support for methanol prices, but the cost side offered limited support for acetic acid prices.

Market outlook

According to analysts at SunSirs, as of Feburary 28, the operating rate of acetic acid plants was around 80%, indicating a relatively ample supply. Companies were primarily focused on shipping, while downstream demand was recovering slowly, resulting in a weak market trading atmosphere. It is expected that the acetic acid market will be weaker in the short term, with particular attention needed to monitor the follow-up of downstream demand.

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