Adipic Acid Prices: Market Insights and Influencing Factors

 

 

Adipic Acid prices remained on the higher side during early April 2025, influenced by a mix of rising raw material costs, tightened global supply, and steady demand from the polymer and textile industries. As one of the primary ingredients used in the production of nylon 6,6, polyurethanes, and plasticizers, Adipic Acid continues to face pricing pressure across key global markets.

In Asia, Adipic Acid prices showed upward momentum in the wake of firm feedstock costs, particularly cyclohexanone and nitric acid. In China, average prices stood at around RMB 11,800 to RMB 12,300 per metric ton, marking a moderate increase from March. The domestic supply situation remained slightly tight, with several producers conducting maintenance shutdowns.

“Demand from downstream nylon producers has been consistent,” said a distributor in Jiangsu province. “With the approaching peak construction season and industrial activity rebounding after the Lunar New Year, we expect Adipic Acid prices to stay strong through mid-Q2.”

India mirrored a similar sentiment, where prices ranged between INR 160 to INR 172 per kilogram. Importers faced increased freight costs and limited availability from traditional suppliers in Europe and South Korea, contributing to a firm domestic market. Indian textile and engineering plastics industries continued to show strong interest, particularly as inventory levels remained low in several segments.

In Europe, Adipic Acid prices remained stable but at a relatively elevated level due to higher energy and compliance costs. Average prices were reported at €1,950 to €2,100 per metric ton. Supply was adequate in most regions, although some delays in intra-European shipments were noted due to tight truck availability and port congestion in northern Europe.

“Energy costs remain a concern, especially with feedstock volatility. Producers are passing on these pressures, and we don’t expect any major relief on Adipic Acid prices in the near term,” said a procurement lead at a packaging firm in Germany.

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In North America, prices held firm, with market participants reporting values between $1,900 and $2,100 per metric ton. Tight domestic supply, coupled with logistical challenges, added to the bullish sentiment. Demand remained robust from polyurethane foam manufacturers and industrial resin formulators.

“Construction season is just starting in the U.S., which means polyurethane demand is going up. That’s already being reflected in Adipic Acid prices,” said a chemical buyer from a major U.S.-based flooring manufacturer.

Latin America also experienced price firmness, with Brazil and Mexico seeing Adipic Acid prices hover around $2,200 per metric ton due to limited local production and dependency on imports from Asia and Europe. Delays at key ports and increased transit times added further pressure to regional pricing.

The Middle East saw a slight upward movement in prices, averaging $2,100 to $2,250 per metric ton, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Ongoing infrastructure and automotive sector growth contributed to healthy demand, and regional buyers reported strong competition for available cargoes.

Africa’s market for Adipic Acid remained relatively small but showed firm pricing trends. In South Africa, prices stood at approximately ZAR 42,000 per ton, with demand focused mainly on industrial resin and plastic applications. Importers faced delays and costlier shipments from Asia, adding to regional supply chain stress.

Globally, Adipic Acid prices have been influenced by a complex set of factors. Feedstock availability, particularly for cyclohexanone, remains uneven, while nitric acid prices have risen due to upstream ammonia volatility. Additionally, tightening environmental norms in producing countries have limited plant operating rates, reducing global supply.

Market analysts expect Adipic Acid prices to remain elevated through the second quarter of 2025. Unless there is a significant drop in feedstock costs or a sudden softening in demand, pricing will likely stay firm across regions. The upcoming summer season in the northern hemisphere could further push demand for polyurethane-based applications, especially in construction, insulation, and coatings.

“Adipic Acid prices are a direct reflection of feedstock and energy costs,” said a senior analyst at a global chemical consulting firm. “As long as these inputs remain expensive and supply stays controlled, the market will maintain its upward bias.”

With no major capacity additions expected in the near future and rising demand from sustainable and high-performance plastics applications, Adipic Acid prices will likely stay under upward pressure well into the latter half of 2025.

ChemAnalyst

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