2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid Pricing Assessment

  • Commodity Pricing

2-ethyl hexanoic acid Markets Covered: 

myMalaysia
jpJapan
inIndia
usUnited States
deGermany
trTurkey
idIndonesia
vnVietnam

2-ethyl hexanoic acid Markets Covered: 

Global 2-ethyl hexanoic acid Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast​

In Q1 2025, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market continued to show significant declines across various regions, influenced by ongoing global economic challenges and weaker industrial demand. Germany saw a notable decrease of 11.0%, with prices falling to $1317/MT, due to reduced demand in key industrial sectors. Indonesia recorded a 12.0% decrease, with prices falling to $1192/MT, reflecting slower industrial production and weakening demand in major sectors. Japan experienced the largest drop of 16.0%, with prices falling to $1166/MT, as industrial consumption and manufacturing output weakened significantly. Malaysia also saw a decline of 12.3%, with prices reaching $1159/MT, influenced by reduced demand from regional industries. Turkey recorded a 11.0% decrease, with prices dropping to $1376/MT, impacted by weaker demand in both domestic and export markets. The USA experienced a 10.5% drop, with prices falling to $1438/MT, reflecting slower demand from the chemicals and manufacturing industries. Finally, Vietnam saw a significant decline of 15.8%, with prices falling to $1215/MT, driven by reduced demand from the automotive and chemicals sectors. Overall, Q1 2025 was marked by widespread price declines across regions due to softer demand, global economic uncertainties, and continued supply chain challenges. 

In Q4 2024, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market saw substantial declines across most regions, reflecting weaker demand and ongoing economic challenges. Germany experienced a decrease of 6.1%, with prices dropping to $1480/MT, influenced by slowing industrial activity and lower demand from key sectors. Indonesia recorded the largest drop of 20.8%, with prices falling to $1354/MT, primarily due to oversupply and reduced consumption. Japan saw a 15.4% decrease, with prices reaching $1388/MT, driven by reduced industrial demand and weaker consumption in the automotive and chemical sectors. Malaysia also experienced a steep decline of 20.9%, with prices falling to $1321/MT, influenced by weaker regional demand and reduced industrial production. Turkey recorded a 6.1% drop, with prices falling to $1546/MT, as both domestic and export demand weakened. The USA saw a more moderate decline of 3.8%, with prices dropping to $1606/MT, impacted by reduced demand from the manufacturing and chemical industries. Vietnam experienced a 15.1% drop, with prices falling to $1444/MT, as demand from the chemical and automotive sectors slowed. Overall, Q4 2024 was characterized by widespread price declines due to weakened demand, oversupply, and broader economic challenges in several key markets. 

In Q3 2024, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market experienced mixed trends, with significant price changes across various regions. Germany saw a notable increase of 8.8%, with prices rising to $1575/MT, driven by stronger demand in key industrial sectors. Indonesia recorded a sharp decline of 8.2%, with prices falling to $1709/MT, as weaker demand and oversupply affected the market. Japan experienced a decrease of 2.3%, with prices dropping to $1641/MT, due to a slowdown in consumption in the chemical and automotive industries. Malaysia saw a significant drop of 8.9%, with prices falling to $1669/MT, largely influenced by lower regional demand and softer industrial activity. Turkey saw a solid increase of 10.0%, with prices rising to $1646/MT, reflecting strong domestic consumption and export demand. The USA experienced the largest increase of 11.0%, with prices reaching $1669/MT, driven by robust demand in the manufacturing and chemical sectors. Vietnam saw a slight decline of 1.2%, with prices falling to $1701/MT, as demand from key sectors like chemicals and automotive slowed. Overall, Q3 2024 was marked by strong price growth in certain regions, especially in Turkey and the USA, while other markets like Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia faced declines due to weaker demand and oversupply. 

In Q2 2024, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market saw significant price increases across several regions, driven by robust demand and regional market dynamics. Germany experienced a slight decline of 0.1%, with prices falling to $1448/MT, reflecting stable but unremarkable demand. Indonesia recorded a notable increase of 22.6%, with prices rising to $1861/MT, due to higher demand from both domestic and regional markets. Japan experienced a substantial increase of 26.0%, with prices reaching $1679/MT, fuelled by strong domestic consumption and higher demand from the chemical industry. Malaysia saw a 22.8% increase, with prices reaching $1832/MT, reflecting a recovery in regional consumption. Turkey saw a modest rise of 0.2%, with prices increasing to $1496/MT, indicating stable market conditions. The USA recorded a slight increase of 0.3%, with prices rising to $1505/MT, driven by consistent demand. Vietnam experienced a significant price jump of 25.6%, with prices rising to $1721/MT, largely due to growing consumption in the chemicals and pharmaceutical sectors. Overall, Q2 2024 saw strong price increases across most regions, particularly in Asia, due to heightened demand and market recovery in key sectors. 

In Q1 2024, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market showed mixed price movements across various countries. Germany saw a slight increase of 0.6%, with prices rising to $1449/MT, reflecting steady demand in the European market. Indonesia recorded a slight decline of 1.1%, with prices falling to $1517/MT, primarily due to weaker domestic demand and softer economic conditions. Japan saw a significant increase of 7.4%, with prices reaching $1333/MT, supported by higher demand from the domestic chemical industry. Malaysia experienced a decline of 2.1%, with prices falling to $1492/MT, influenced by reduced demand in the regional market. Turkey saw a 2.3% rise, with prices reaching $1493/MT, driven by stable demand from local industries. The USA experienced a 2.6% increase, with prices rising to $1500/MT, supported by consistent demand from various sectors. Lastly, Vietnam saw a 4.8% drop, with prices falling to $1370/MT, mainly due to slower consumption in key sectors. Overall, the Q1 2024 market for 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid displayed a combination of price increases in some regions and declines in others, influenced by regional demand fluctuations and broader market conditions. 

India 2-ethyl hexanoic acid Price Trend, Analysis and Forecast

In Q1 2025, the 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (2-EHA) market in India (CIF Japan) experienced a significant decline of 13.5%, with prices dropping to $1,267/MT. This was mainly driven by reduced export activity and logistical challenges that affected the supply chain. The decline reflects the ongoing global economic uncertainties and softer demand from key sectors such as chemicals and automotive, which significantly impacted India’s export performance. 

In Q4 2024, India saw a substantial decline of 15.3%, with prices falling to $1,466/MT. This drop was largely attributed to weaker export demand, particularly from Japan, as well as persistent logistical and supply chain disruptions. Additionally, overall economic slowdown affected demand, leading to a reduction in industrial consumption and a decrease in export volumes. 

In Q3 2024, India (CIF Japan) experienced a modest increase of 0.3%, with prices reaching $1,731/MT. This slight rise reflected steady demand from Japan, although it was not enough to offset broader market pressures. The increase was mainly driven by stable demand in key export markets, but it was also limited by softer industrial production in India and the ongoing supply chain issues. 

In Q2 2024, India recorded a sharp increase of 25.8%, with prices reaching $1,724/MT. This growth was driven by robust export demand, particularly from Japan, as well as an overall recovery in industrial activity. The increase also reflected regional market dynamics, where India benefited from stronger demand in the chemical and manufacturing sectors, particularly those related to automotive and pharmaceuticals. 

In Q1 2024, India saw a notable increase of 10.7%, with prices rising to $1,372/MT. This was mainly driven by stronger export demand from Japan and increased export activity. The rise in prices reflected a steady increase in demand from key industrial sectors, particularly the chemical industry, which boosted India’s performance in the global market for 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid. The growth was also supported by favourable market conditions and recovery in regional consumption. 

2-ethyl hexanoic acid Parameters Covered: 

  • Propylene
  • Butyraldehyde
  • 2-ethylhexenal
  • Japan
  • Malaysia
  • Germany
  • Used as plasticizers for polyvinyl butyral (PVB) and polyvinyl chloride
  • Raw material for synthetic polyoleters used in lubricants.
  • Synthesis of alkyd resins
  • Production of corrosion inhibitors for automotive coolants.
  • Vietnam
  • Indonesia
  • USA
  • Turkey
  • India

2-ethyl hexanoic acid Parameters Covered: 

Why PriceWatch?

PriceWatch is your trusted resource for tracking global 2-ethyl hexanoic acid price trends. Our platform delivers real-time data and expert analysis, offering deep insights into the key factors driving price fluctuations in the 2-ethyl hexanoic acid market. By monitoring critical events such as geopolitical tensions, supply chain disruptions, and economic shifts, PriceWatch keeps you fully informed of market dynamics.

In addition, PriceWatch provides detailed forecasts and updates on production capacities, enabling you to anticipate market changes and make well-informed decisions. With PriceWatch, you gain a competitive edge in understanding all the elements that influence 2-ethyl hexanoic acid prices worldwide. Stay ahead of the curve with PriceWatch’s reliable, accurate, and timely 2-ethyl hexanoic acid market data.

Track PriceWatch's 2-ethyl hexanoic acid price assessment on a weekly basis since 2015 onwards, along with short-term forecasts, and get access to the detailed report in a downloadable format.

Historically, several events have caused significant fluctuations in 2-ethyl Hexanoic Acid prices

  • Russia-Ukraine Conflict (2022): As manufacturers seek to mitigate risks associated with disrupted supplies, there may be a shift towards sourcing alternative materials or suppliers. This increased demand can drive up prices, especially if alternative sources are limited or less efficient. Uncertainty surrounding the conflict has led to speculation in the commodities markets. Traders reacting to news about the situation can influence pricing through buying and selling pressure, often leading to short-term volatility in 2-EHA prices.   
  • Texas Winter Storm (2021): The severe cold weather led to widespread power outages and infrastructure failures across Texas, a major hub for chemical manufacturing. Many facilities had to shut down or reduce operations, leading to decreased production capacity for chemicals, including 2-EHA. This reduction in supply contributed to upward pressure on prices. 
  • COVID-19 Pandemic (2020):  The availability of raw materials for producing 2-EHA was impacted as sourcing became more challenging. Disruptions in logistics and transportation hampered the delivery of critical feedstocks, leading to increased production costs for manufacturers, which were often passed on to customers. Demand for 2-EHA varied significantly during the pandemic. While some sectors, such as pharmaceuticals and personal care products, saw increased demand, others, like automotive and construction, experienced slowdowns. This variability led to uncertainty in pricing as manufacturers adjusted to shifting market needs. 
  • Geopolitical Tensions (2018-2019): In 2018, the U.S.-China trade war escalated, leading to the imposition of tariffs on various chemical products and raw materials. This created uncertainty in pricing and availability, as manufacturers faced increased costs for imported materials essential for producing 2-EHA. Geopolitical tensions often resulted in disruptions to supply chains. Conflicts and sanctions affected logistics and transportation routes, leading to delays in the delivery of raw materials. Such disruptions increased lead times and contributed to higher production costs for 2-EHA. 
  • Shale Gas Boom (2010): The shale gas boom led to a significant increase in the availability of natural gas and ethane, which are critical feedstocks for the production of many petrochemicals, including those used to manufacture 2-EHA. The increased supply of these raw materials helped lower production costs, positively impacting 2-EHA prices. 
  • Global Financial Crisis (2008-2009): During the financial crisis, many industries, including automotive, construction, and consumer goods, faced significant downturns. This reduction in economic activity led to decreased demand for 2-EHA, which is used in various applications like plastics, coatings, and lubricants. As demand waned, prices of 2-EHA tended to decline. 
  • Hurricane Katrina (2005): Hurricane Katrina caused extensive damage to numerous chemical plants and refineries in the Gulf Coast region. Many facilities were forced to shut down or operate at reduced capacity due to flooding and infrastructure damage. This disruption led to a decrease in the production of 2-EHA and other chemicals, contributing to supply shortages. The storm impacted the supply of raw materials critical for producing 2-EHA. With many suppliers affected by the hurricane, the availability of essential feedstocks became limited. This shortage drove up production costs and, consequently, the prices of 2-EHA. 

Data Collection and Sources​

  • Real-Time Market Data: PriceWatch aggregates real-time pricing data from a diverse range of sources, including global commodity exchanges, industry reports, and proprietary databases. This ensures that our assessments reflect the most current market conditions. 
  • On-the-Ground Intelligence: Our team gathers insights directly from key market participants, including producers, suppliers, traders, and end-users, across major 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid production hubs. This ground-level intelligence is crucial for understanding localized market dynamics. 
  • Supply Chain Monitoring: We track the entire 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid supply chain, from raw material availability (e.g. Propylene ) to production and distribution channels. This includes monitoring feedstock prices, production capacities, and transportation logistics.

Event Tracking and Impact Analysis​

  • Geopolitical Tensions: PriceWatch continuously monitors global geopolitical developments, such as conflicts or trade disputes, which can significantly impact 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid prices. Our analysis includes potential disruptions to supply chains and their immediate and long-term effects on pricing. 
  • Natural Disasters and Climate Events: We assess the impact of natural disasters, such as hurricanes or winter storms, on 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid production facilities, particularly in vulnerable regions like the U.S. Gulf Coast. These events are factored into our price forecasts and supply outlooks. 
  • Economic Shifts: PriceWatch evaluates macroeconomic trends, including global economic growth, inflation rates, and sector-specific demand (e.g., automotive, packaging), to predict shifts in 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid demand and corresponding price movements. 

Production Capacity and Supply Analysis

  • Current Production Monitoring: We maintain a comprehensive database of global 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid production facilities, tracking their operational status, maintenance schedules, and output levels. This allows us to assess current supply availability accurately. 
  • Future Capacity Projections: Our research includes detailed forecasts of upcoming 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid production capacities, factoring in new plant constructions, expansions, and technological advancements. This helps in predicting future supply trends and potential price stabilization. 

Demand Forecasting

  • Sectoral Demand Analysis: PriceWatch provides in-depth analysis of demand trends across key sectors, including packaging, automotive, and construction. We track year-on-year demand growth and project future consumption patterns based on economic indicators and industry developments. 
  • Global Demand Dynamics: Our methodology considers regional demand variations and how they influence global 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid pricing. This includes understanding the impact of shifts in manufacturing bases, trade policies, and environmental regulations.

Pricing Model Development

  • Dynamic Pricing Models: PriceWatch utilizes advanced econometric models to forecast 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid prices, incorporating real-time data, historical trends, and projected market conditions. Our models are continuously refined to enhance accuracy and predictive power. 
  • Scenario Analysis: We conduct scenario-based assessments to evaluate potential future market conditions. This includes best-case, worst-case, and most likely scenarios, helping our clients prepare for a range of market outcomes. 

Reporting and Client Support

  • Comprehensive Reports: Our clients receive detailed reports that include current price assessments, future price forecasts, and in-depth analysis of market drivers. These reports are designed to be actionable, providing clear insights and recommendations. 
  • Ongoing Support: PriceWatch offers continuous updates and personalized support to our clients, ensuring they have the most up-to-date information to make informed decisions. Our experts are available to discuss specific market developments and provide tailored advice. 

This research methodology ensures that PriceWatch delivers the most accurate, timely, and actionable 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid pricing assessments, helping our clients stay ahead of market trends and make informed business decisions. 

Molecular Weight[g/mol]

144.24 g/mol

CAS No

149-57-5

HS Code

29159090

Molecular Formula

C8H16O2
2-ethyl hexanoic acid

2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid (C8H16O2) is a branched-chain fatty acid used in various industries. It is a colorless to pale yellow liquid with a mild odor. The acid is primarily used as a plasticizer in PVC and other polymers, enhancing flexibility, and as a lubricant additive to improve oil and grease performance. Additionally, it serves as a precursor for metal salts used as catalysts, and as a solvent in coatings, inks, and adhesives. With a molecular weight of 144.21 g/mol, it is soluble in organic solvents and plays a key role in automotive, chemical, and manufacturing industries.

Packaging Type

Iso Tank

Grades Covered

Industrial Grade

Incoterms Used

FOB Japan, FOB Malaysia, FOB Germany, CIF Nhava Seva (Japan), CIF Haiphong (Japan), CIF Jakarta (Malaysia), CIF Houston (Germany), CIF Mersin (Germany).

Synonym

Octoic acid

PriceWatch Quotation Terms:

25-28 MT

Ex-Location: This incoterm refers to a shipping agreement where the seller makes the goods available at their premises, and the buyer is responsible for all transportation costs, including shipping, insurance, and any other fees.
CIF: CIF refers to the Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) terms for goods. Under CIF terms, the seller is responsible for the cost of goods, insurance, and freight charges until the goods reach the port of destination.
FD: FD stands for Free Delivered where the seller takes full responsibility for delivering goods to the location/port. This ensures the buyer receives the goods at the designated port with all necessary costs, except import duties, covered.
FOB: FOB refers to the Free On-Board shipping term, where the seller is responsible for the cost and risk of delivering the goods to the port. Once the goods are on board the vessel, the responsibility shifts to the buyer for all costs, including shipping and insurance.

Item  Specification 
Appearance  Clear liquid 
color  15 Max. 
Specific Gravity (20/4 °C)  0.905-0.910 
Purity   99.0 min 
Water content  0.10 Max 
Acidity  Max 0.002 

Applications

2-EHA is commonly used as a plasticizer in the production of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and other polymers. It enhances the flexibility, durability, and workability of plastic products, making it ideal for various consumer and industrial applications. In the coatings and paints industry, 2-EHA serves as a solvent due to its ability to dissolve a wide range of organic materials. It helps improve the application properties and finish of paints, varnishes, and lacquers. 2-EHA is Surfactants Used in detergents and cleaners to enhance emulsification and wetting properties. Lubricants Employed in automotive and industrial lubricants to improve performance and stability. In agrochemicals, 2-EHA is used in the formulation of pesticides and herbicides. It helps in enhancing the solubility and effectiveness of active ingredients, improving their performance in agricultural applications. 2-EHA is found in certain cosmetic formulations and personal care products, where it acts as an emollient and skin-conditioning agent, contributing to product texture and performance. As an intermediate in pharmaceutical manufacturing, 2-EHA plays a role in the synthesis of various drugs, enhancing their effectiveness and stability. In the adhesive industry, 2-EHA is used to improve the bonding properties and flexibility of formulations, making it suitable for diverse applications in construction and automotive sectors. 

2-ethyl Hexanoic Acid price provided by PriceWatch is a base price and excludes VAT/Taxes, discounts, or offers. The information herein is accurate to the best of our knowledge as of the date indicated and is provided solely for the convenience of our customers as a reference for 2-ethyl hexanoic acid. PriceWatch disclaims any warranties or representations regarding the accuracy of results derived from this information. It is the sole responsibility of the user to assess the suitability of the product for their specific application. This document does not constitute an endorsement to use the product in violation of any applicable patent rights.

The pricing of 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid is influenced by several factors, including raw material costs, production capacity, and global demand trends. Additionally, geopolitical stability in producing regions, transportation costs, and the availability of sustainable production methods also play significant roles. Regular monitoring of these factors can help procurement heads make informed purchasing decisions.

To forecast future pricing trends for 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid, procurement heads should analyze historical pricing data, monitor supply chain dynamics, and stay updated on industry news. Additionally, following trends in raw material prices and technological advancements in production can provide insights. Engaging with market analysts and subscribing to industry reports can also enhance forecasting accuracy.

Yes, sustainable sourcing options for 2-Ethyl Hexanoic Acid, such as bio-based feedstocks, are becoming more prevalent and can impact pricing. While initial costs for sustainable options may be higher, they often lead to long-term savings and compliance with environmental regulations. As demand for eco-friendly products rises, exploring these sustainable alternatives could provide procurement heads with competitive pricing strategies and enhance their corporate sustainability initiatives.

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