Price trend

According to data from SunSirs' data, as of April 27, the average market price for acetic acid stood at 3,250 RMB/ton. Compared to the price of 4,166.67 RMB/ton recorded on April 20, this represents a decrease of 916.67 RMB/ton, or a decline of 22.00%.

Market analysis

Last week (April 20–27), domestic acetic acid prices underwent a significant downward adjustment. Raw material methanol traded within a fluctuating range, providing only moderate cost support. On the supply side, operating rates for acetic acid production increased, and manufacturers demonstrated a strong inclination to move inventory; however, downstream demand remained lackluster, resulting in a sluggish trading atmosphere. Consequently, acetic acid producers saw their inventories rise; in an effort to clear stock ahead of the holiday, the focal point of acetic acid price negotiations shifted downward. Concurrently, purchasing activity in the terminal market remained subdued, downstream market conditions continued to weaken, and overall market sentiment turned bearish, driving acetic acid prices into a weak, downward trend.

Last week, the market for the raw material methanol traded within a fluctuating range. As of April 27, the average price in the domestic market stood at 3,300 RMB/ton—a decline of 1.37% compared to the price of 3,346 RMB/ton recorded on April 20. The methanol spot market trended predominantly downward; downstream consumers exhibited resistance to high prices and engaged in purchasing strictly on an as-needed basis. Consequently, sales volumes for some enterprises were lackluster, placing downward pressure on methanol prices. However, tight inventory levels at ports provided some support to spot prices, resulting in limited overall price volatility.

Downstream market trends for acetic anhydride have continued their downward trajectory. From April 20 to April 27, the average ex-factory price of acetic anhydride fell from 6,200 RMB/ton to 5,537.5 RMB/ton—a decline of 10.69%. On the supply side, acetic anhydride production facilities are operating steadily, with manufacturers prioritizing active inventory clearance. Downstream buyers remain generally reluctant to procure at high price points, resulting in a weak overall trading atmosphere. Furthermore, declining prices for the raw material—acetic acid—are exerting bearish pressure on acetic anhydride. Given these weak fundamentals, market prices for acetic anhydride are expected to continue their downward trend.

Market outlook

According to analysts at SunSirs, acetic acid manufacturers currently demonstrate a clear intention to reduce inventory, and the focal point of price negotiations continues to drift downward. Downstream buyers are entering the market only on an as-needed basis, resulting in insufficient demand support and a pessimistic outlook for the acetic acid market. It is anticipated that market trends for acetic acid will remain weak leading up to the holiday; future market performance will depend on supply-side conditions.

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