In Q1 2024 the Asian Benzoic Acid market decreased by 0.18% as compared to the Q4 of 2023. In this quarter, benzoic acid prices remained mostly stable, with a slight decline observed. Demand from industries such as pharmaceuticals and food processing remained consistent. In China, prices decreased during the early part of the quarter but rose towards the end due to increased demand and low inventory levels. The challenges in the Chinese market have had a same impact on price of India, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Brazil, Mexico, Philippines, and Türkiye as China are a significant exporter to all these countries. By the end of the quarter in China, the price of benzoic acid reached 912 USD per metric ton in March.
In Q2 2024, the Asian benzoic acid market experienced an upward trend primarily driven by strong demand outpacing limited supply, compounded by pressures from domestic and global markets. Furthermore, escalating freight costs, driven by surging crude oil prices, added to the strain on the market and pushed up import expenses. By the end of the quarter in June, the price of Benzoic acid in China settled at 983 USD per metric ton.
In Q3 2024, the benzoic market will continue to experience upward price pressure due to ongoing supply limitations. The growing demand for adhesives, paints, textile and nylon, preservatives will expect to boost the benzoic acid market in the APAC region as well as in Europe region. As of July 2024, benzoic acid prices were fluctuating and reflecting around 0.26% increase from the previous month. In the beginning of the quarter in July, the price of China reached at 1006 USD per metric ton.
In Q4 2024, the Asia-Pacific region will experience upward trend in benzoic acid prices. Key factors driving these price fluctuations include differing demand trends across various countries, particularly influenced by Asia’s strong performance. Additionally, rising raw material prices will affect production costs, while ongoing trade tensions will disrupt regional supply chains. In the short term, the benzoic acid market will experience growth primarily due to rising demand from the paints, preservatives and increased demand from processed food and beverages. In addition, the global production of benzoic acid is expected to increase owing to the rising demand for preservatives from end use industries.