Acetic acid prices in China have been witnessing a slightly decline recently amid sluggish downstream market sentiments

Recently, the acetic acid prices remained relatively stable but showed signs of weakness due to a persistent supply-demand imbalance. Domestic production capacity utilization remained high, ensuring ample supply across regions. However, downstream industries displayed limited enthusiasm for pre-holiday stocking, leading to moderate trading activity and increasing sales pressure on suppliers. While shipments were relatively smooth in some areas like East and South China, regions such as North China and Shandong faced slower demand, contributing to localized pricing challenges.

Upstream, the methanol market initially strengthened due to rising crude oil prices but later experienced a decline as buying interest waned and shipping costs increased. This fluctuation in methanol prices added to the mixed dynamics within the acetic acid market. Downstream, the acetic anhydride market saw a slight upward adjustment, supported by balanced supply and demand, although cost influences from the upstream acetic acid market remained moderate.

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Overall, the market exhibited a cautious wait-and-see sentiment, with buyers focusing on immediate procurement needs rather than long-term stockpiling.

Looking forward, the acetic acid market is expected to continue operating within a narrow range of fluctuations, with pricing trends dependent on downstream activity and the resolution of the current supply-demand imbalance. In the short term, stable prices are likely, but the market's direction will require close monitoring of downstream performance and inventory dynamics.